UC San Diego Health offers
endometriosis diagnosis and
treatment. Our
clinical specialists treat painful endometriosis symptoms and conduct research to better understand endometriosis and how it affects women, while developing and evaluating promising new treatments.
What is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a common gynecological disease in which tissue that normally lines the womb (uterus) grows in other areas of the body, such as the pelvic cavity, bladder, bowel, fallopian tubes or ovaries.
An estimated 5 million women in the U.S. have endometriosis. It is most commonly found in women over age 30 but can affect any female who menstruates.
Who is at Risk for Endometriosis?
Factors that can increase risk for endometriosis include:
- Periods starting before age 11
- Heavy menstrual cycles that last longer than 7 days
- Monthly cycles shorter than 27 days
- A closed hymen, which blocks the flow of blood
- Never having children
Learn more about endometriosis in our Health Library.
Endometriosis and Infertility
Infertility, or difficulty getting pregnant, can be a result of endometriosis. Your doctor will work with you to develop a treatment plan to minimize your endometriosis symptoms while preserving your fertility.
Learn more about our fertility program.
Endometriosis Symptoms
The primary symptom of endometriosis is pelvic pain, often associated with a woman's menstrual period. Endometriosis may be more common in women with a family history of this disease. Other symptoms may include:
- Pain during periods: severe menstrual cramping, lower back or abdominal pain, painful bowel movements or painful urination
- Pain during or after sex
- Excessive bleeding: heavy periods or bleeding or spotting between periods
- Gastrointestinal symptoms: diarrhea, constipation, bloating, or nausea
For more information, see Endometriosis Diagnosis and Endometriosis Treatment Options.