Endometriosis is a chronic gynecological disease that affects approximately one in ten women of reproductive age. It is characterized by the presence, outside the uterus, of tissue similar to the lining of the uterine cavity (the endometrium).

These cells can implant on different organs — such as the ovaries, pelvic ligaments, bowel, or bladder — where they respond to hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle, leading to inflammation and a wide range of symptoms.

Each woman experiences endometriosis differently: while some women have few or no symptoms, others experience severe pain or fertility difficulties.

The Most Common Symptoms

• Pelvic pain, sometimes severe
• Very painful menstrual periods
• Pain during sexual intercourse
• Difficulty conceiving
• Digestive or urinary symptoms related to the menstrual cycle
• Persistent fatigue

These symptoms are not normal, even though they are sometimes underestimated or dismissed. They should prompt medical consultation.

A Disease with Multiple Forms

Endometriosis does not present the same way in every woman. Several forms are commonly described:

• Superficial lesions, often small but potentially painful
• Endometriomas, ovarian cysts associated with the disease
• Deep infiltrating endometriosis, where lesions extend deeper into tissues and may involve multiple organs
• Adenomyosis, a related condition in which endometrial-like tissue develops within the muscular wall of the uterus

This diversity partly explains why diagnosing endometriosis can sometimes be complex.

How is the Diagnosis Made?

Diagnosis is based on several elements:

• Careful evaluation of symptoms
• Clinical examination
• Imaging investigations, particularly ultrasound and MRI, performed by specialists in endometriosis.

In some cases, surgery may confirm the diagnosis, although this is no longer always necessary.

A Global Impact on Women’s Lives

Beyond the physical symptoms, endometriosis may affect many aspects of life, including: daily activities, professional life, intimate relationships, mental health, reproductive plans.

Recognizing this global impact is essential in order to provide comprehensive and appropriate care.

Personalized Management

There is no single form of endometriosis and no single treatment.

Management may include: hormonal treatments, pain management therapies, physiotherapy, psychological support, surgery in selected cases, fertility support when needed.

Why FHU FRAME is Committed

Endometriosis remains too often underdiagnosed, insufficiently understood, and underestimated.

FHU FRAME is committed to: reducing diagnostic delays, improving patient care, training healthcare professionals, developing more reliable diagnostic tools, supporting innovative research projects.