Frequently asked questions

Frequently Asked Questions and Answers

What is endometriosis

Endometriosis is a condition in which tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus - most commonly on the ovaries, fallopian tubes or pelvic peritoneum. This tissue responds to the hormonal cycle just like the uterine lining - it grows and bleeds each month, but the blood has nowhere to go. The result is inflammation, adhesions and pain.

Endometriosis affects approximately 1 in 10 women of reproductive age - around 176 million women worldwide. Despite this, the average time from first symptoms to diagnosis is still 7-10 years.

The exact cause is unknown, but genetics plays a role. If your mother or sister has endometriosis, your risk is approximately seven times higher than in women without a family history.

No. Endometriosis is not an infectious disease and cannot be transmitted to another person.

No. Endometriosis is a benign (non-cancerous) condition. Endometrioid cysts are sometimes referred to as benign tumours due to their similar behaviour, but malignant transformation is extremely rare.

Symptoms

The most common symptom is pelvic pain - particularly during menstruation, ovulation or sexual intercourse. Others include heavy or irregular bleeding, pain during bowel movements or urination, chronic fatigue and difficulty conceiving.

No. Pain that prevents you from functioning normally - at work, school or in daily life - is not normal and deserves medical investigation. Endometriosis is one of the most common causes of such pain.

Yes. Endometriosis is sometimes discovered incidentally during a fertility investigation, without the woman experiencing significant pain. Symptom intensity does not always correspond to the extent of disease.

Diagnosis

Definitive diagnosis is provided by laparoscopy - a minimally invasive surgical procedure in which the doctor directly visualises and can also remove lesions with a camera. Before surgery, doctors perform ultrasound or MRI, which can detect cysts but miss small lesions.

Endometriosis symptoms overlap with other conditions (irritable bowel syndrome, inflammation, fibroids). In addition, menstrual pain is still frequently dismissed. The average time from first symptoms to diagnosis in the Czech Republic is 7-10 years.

Yes. At our centre you can book directly - without requiring a referral from another doctor.

Treatment

Not yet. Endometriosis is a chronic condition, but symptoms can be managed very well - through a combination of hormonal therapy, surgical treatment and lifestyle changes. The right treatment significantly improves quality of life.

Treatment is tailored to each patient. The main options include: hormonal contraception (tablets, patches, intrauterine device), pain relief medications, laparoscopic surgery to remove lesions and cysts, and in the most severe cases more extensive surgical intervention.

Hysterectomy is not a guaranteed cure for endometriosis. If not all lesions are removed, pain may persist. This operation is a last resort and is always considered on an individual basis.

No. During pregnancy, symptoms may temporarily improve, but after delivery endometriosis usually returns. Pregnancy is not a treatment.

Fertility and living with endometriosis

Approximately 30-40% of women with endometriosis have difficulty conceiving. At the same time, 60-70% of women with the condition conceive without major problems. Early treatment increases the chances of natural conception.

Consult an endometriosis specialist as soon as possible. Laparoscopic surgery can improve fertility by removing adhesions and cysts. When needed, we collaborate with IVF centres.

In most women, symptoms subside after menopause because the condition is oestrogen-dependent. Hormone replacement therapy during menopause may bring symptoms back - individual assessment is always required.

Chronic pain and fatigue can significantly limit work, relationships and mental wellbeing. It is important to seek professional help - not only gynaecological, but also psychological support. You are not alone in this.