Does endometriosis cause pelvic pain?

Endometriosis can inflame tissues outside the womb and make areas such as the ovaries, bowel, bladder, or pelvic lining tender. Pain may be central or on one side, cyclical or present between periods, and may feel aching, cramping, burning, or sharp.

Some people have pelvic pain with painful periods, pain during sex, bowel or bladder symptoms, or trouble conceiving. Other causes include infection, ovarian conditions, bladder problems, bowel disorders, or muscle and nerve pain. The pattern matters more than one isolated symptom.

Write down the pain location, sensation, timing, triggers, and effect on movement, sleep, work, or sex. Note menstrual timing and any bleeding, discharge, urinary changes, bowel changes, fever, or pregnancy possibility.

A clinician can review your history, examine the pelvis when appropriate, and decide whether imaging or referral is needed. Treatment may target pain, hormones, an identified pelvic condition, or several contributors together.

Arrange a medical review for persistent, recurring, or worsening pelvic pain, particularly if it disrupts normal activities or occurs with period, bowel, bladder, or fertility concerns. Seek urgent help for sudden severe pain, fainting, fever, vomiting, heavy bleeding, or possible pregnancy.

What features of my pain point toward endometriosis or another cause? Would an examination or scan help? Which treatments can reduce pain while fitting my pregnancy and contraception plans?