What is endometriosis?
A clear, factual starting point for understanding what endometriosis is, how it may affect the body and why symptoms should be taken seriously.
Read resourceEndometriosis Knowledge Centre
Understanding Endometriosis
Start with the basics. Learn what endometriosis is, how it can affect the body, why it is more than period pain, and why symptoms should be taken seriously.
Resources
In this section
Endometriosis is more than period pain
Understand why endometriosis is a complex inflammatory condition that can affect pain, energy, organs, fertility and daily life.
Read resourceWhere can endometriosis be found in the body?
Learn how endometriosis can involve pelvic and extra-pelvic areas, including bowel, bladder, diaphragm, chest, nerves, scars and other tissues.
Read resourceWhat are endometriosis lesions?
A clear guide to what lesions are, how they may look, how they can affect the body, and what questions to ask about them.
Read resourceAdhesions, scar tissue and endometriomas
Understand common endometriosis-related terms including adhesions, scar tissue and ovarian endometriomas.
Read resourceEndometriosis myths and misunderstandings
Challenge common myths that delay care, including “it is just bad periods”, “normal scans rule it out” and “pregnancy cures it”.
Read resourceEndometriosis vs adenomyosis
Understand the difference between endometriosis and adenomyosis, how symptoms may overlap, and what to ask in appointments.
Read resourceFeatured next step
Prepare for Appointment Tool
Organise your symptoms, questions and concerns before speaking with a doctor or specialist.
Endometriosis Care Directory
Explore endometriosis providers, clinics and services, and prepare questions to ask.
Keep exploring
Related sections
Symptoms and Body Systems
Explore symptoms that may be linked with endometriosis, including pain, bowel, bladder, fatigue, fertility, nerve-like and symptoms outside the pelvis.
Open sectionDiagnosis and Investigations
Understand the steps that may be involved in investigating endometriosis, what scans can and cannot show, and how to prepare for healthcare conversations.
Open sectionLiving With Endometriosis
Endometriosis can affect more than physical health. Find resources on daily life, school, work, relationships, emotional wellbeing and being taken seriously.
Open sectionSafety note: This information is for education and support only. It does not diagnose, provide medical advice or recommend personal treatment. Always speak with an appropriate healthcare professional about your symptoms and care options.