How is endometriosis diagnosed?

Endometriosis is definitively diagnosed through laparoscopy — a surgical procedure where a camera is inserted through the abdomen to visualise endometrial lesions. Ultrasound and MRI can support a diagnosis but cannot definitively confirm or rule out endometriosis. The average delay between symptom onset and diagnosis is 7–10 years.

Can complementary practices help with endometriosis?

While there is no natural cure for endometriosis, some complementary practices may help manage symptoms: anti-inflammatory diets (reducing processed foods, gluten, and dairy for some women), acupuncture, gentle yoga, heat therapy, and stress reduction. Yoni steaming may provide temporary symptomatic relief for some women, but it does not treat the underlying condition. Always combine complementary approaches with medical care.

WellnessJune 2, 2026

Endometriosis: Everything You Need to Know

Q: What are the first signs of endometriosis?

The most common early signs of endometriosis include: very painful periods (especially with cramping that begins before menstruation), pain during or after sex, painful bowel movements or urination during your period, heavy menstrual bleeding, and chronic pelvic pain. Many women experience years of these symptoms before receiving a diagnosis.

Learn more about endometriosis: what it is, how to diagnose it, and available treatments in this carefully crafted guide.

⚕️

This article is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. If you experience persistent symptoms, please consult a healthcare professional. The effects of herbal products mentioned in this article have not been scientifically proven.

Endometriosis: Everything You Need to Know

Endometriosis affects approximately 1 in 10 women of reproductive age — roughly 190 million women worldwide. Yet it takes an average of 7-10 years from symptom onset to diagnosis. Here is everything you need to know.

What is endometriosis?: Endometriosis is a chronic condition in which tissue similar to the uterine lining (endometrium) grows outside the uterus. This tissue can affect the ovaries, fallopian tubes, intestines, bladder, and in rare cases, even distant organs.

Why is it painful?: Like the uterine lining, endometrial lesions respond to hormonal cycles — growing and shedding each month. But unlike menstrual blood, this tissue has nowhere to go. It becomes trapped, causing inflammation, adhesions (scar tissue), and intense pain.

Symptoms: Severe period pain (often not responding to standard pain relief), chronic pelvic pain, pain during or after sex, painful bowel movements or urination during menstruation, heavy or irregular bleeding, and infertility.

Diagnosis: The only definitive diagnosis is laparoscopy — a minimally invasive surgical procedure. Ultrasound and MRI can detect larger lesions but miss superficial ones.

Treatment options: Hormonal therapy (the pill, progestins, GnRH agonists) suppresses the cycle and reduces lesion growth. Laparoscopic excision removes lesions. Pain management including NSAIDs, physiotherapy, and complementary therapies.

Holistic support: Anti-inflammatory diet, pelvic floor physiotherapy, acupuncture, and stress reduction all play supporting roles in endometriosis management. Yoni steaming is NOT recommended for active endometriosis — consult your healthcare provider.