Endometriosis is a whole body, chronic condition where tissue similar to the lining of the womb (endometrial-like) starts to develop elsewhere in the body. In most cases the disease manifests symptoms such as pain during periods (Dysmenorrhea), ovulation, sex (Dyspareunia); infertility and fatigue. Everyone has a different experience of endometriosis, where symptoms can vary in intensity.

In Ireland to describe the extent of endometriosis, it is divided into several stages. To understand the staging system in detail visit the national framework for the Management of Endometriosis in Ireland.

Stage I : Minimal lesions.

Stage II: Mild lesions.

Stage III: Moderate lesions.

Stage IV: Severe lesions. Where it can spread to other parts of the body.

A small area of abnormal or damaged tissue that can cause endometriosis.

Sticky areas that can form between organs which can cause endometriosis.

Surgery for endometriosis can relieve pain and other symptoms by removing or destroying areas affected by endometriosis tissues.

Laparoscopy: The standard form of surgery for endometriosis is Laparoscopy. It is a keyhole surgery which is usually carried out under general anaesthesia where a small telescope with a light on the end and a camera (Laparoscope) is inserted into the body by either making small cuts on the tummy or through the navel. 

Excision: Excision is when the surgery involves cutting out the areas of endometriosis by using scissors or lasers.

Ablation: Ablation is when the surgery involves vaporising the abnormal tissue by exposing it to heat. It is minimally invasive although it can leave some endometriosis tissue in places.

A sudden triggering or worsening of symptoms. In the case of endometriosis it can manifest into pain flare ups.

A disease can be said to be invisible or hidden if the symptoms are not visible externally.

A persistent, lasting, disabling fatigue or pain for a long period of time.

Adenomyosis is a disease where tissues from the lining of the womb (endometrial tissue) start to grow into the muscular wall of the womb (uterus). Adenomyosis is a different disease from endometriosis, even though the symptoms might overlap. In some individuals both the conditions might co-exist.