Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, causing inflammation and pain and sometimes affecting fertility. Symptoms may include severe period pain, chronic pelvic pain, pain during sex, painful bowel movements or urination, and difficulty conceiving. Symptom severity does not always match the extent of disease.
Treatment is guided by pain, impact on life and fertility plans, and may include pain relief, hormonal therapy or surgery. No single approach guarantees a permanent cure, so individualised long-term care is important.
TCM may be used as supportive care for pain, menstrual symptoms and general wellbeing, but should not delay diagnosis or replace necessary treatment. Those trying to conceive should coordinate gynaecological and TCM care. Sudden severe pain, fainting, fever or possible pregnancy requires urgent attention.
Record how pain relates to periods, bowel movements, urination, sex and activity. Mild-looking imaging does not invalidate symptoms; pain control, hormonal care, surgery and fertility planning require shared trade-offs.
