Abstract
Endometriosis is a nonmalignant gynecologic disorder that can have a significant impact
on a woman's quality of life with pelvic pain and possible lasting effects on one's
fertility. Symptoms, when present, can be severe and affect many organ systems including
the gastrointestinal and urinary systems. Other etiologies of pelvic pain must be
ruled out and/or need to be addressed concurrently for optimal patient care. There
are numerous medical and surgical treatment options available that have been shown
to be beneficial for endometriosis-related pelvic pain. Recurrence is common when
medications are discontinued and even after surgical therapy. Ultimately, the treatment
approach will be dependent on the needs of the patient, taking into consideration
the patient's desire for fertility, symptoms, past treatment, and patient preferences.
Keywords
endometriosis - pelvic pain - endometrioma - hormonal therapy - laparoscopy
