What is endometriosis, and what is its prevalence?

Endometriosis is the presence of functioning endometrial-like tissue outside the uterus, which responds to cyclical hormones and causes chronic inflammation (the shed blood is an irritant).

Estimated prevalence is ~2-10% of the general female population, rising to ~50% of infertile women. It mainly affects women in their reproductive (prime) years, and diagnosis is often delayed (8-10 years on average).

Clinical relevance. Recognising endometriosis as a common cause of pain and infertility (often diagnosed late) prompts earlier evaluation.

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Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a common, chronic, oestrogen-dependent inflammatory condition.

Definition

• The presence of functioning endometrial-like tissue outside the uterus (ectopic sites).
• This tissue responds to cyclical hormones and bleeds; the blood is an irritant causing a chronic inflammatory reaction.

Prevalence

• ~2-10% of the general female population.
• Up to ~50% of infertile women.
• High prevalence also in women with dysmenorrhoea, dyspareunia, and chronic pelvic pain.

Who it affects

• Mainly women in their reproductive (prime) years (often presenting <30 years).

Diagnostic delay

• There is often a delay of 8-10 years from symptom onset to diagnosis (symptoms overlap with normal/other conditions, and laparoscopy is needed for definitive diagnosis).