Endometriosis: What Imaging and Laparoscopy Can Tell You

If pain keeps changing your plans, a normal scan can leave you wondering what to say at the next appointment. Bring the symptoms that still need attention. Ask what the scan assessed and what the clinician recommends now.

What imaging can show

A transvaginal ultrasound may identify an ovarian endometriotic cyst or evidence of endometriosis in the pelvis. MRI may be offered when more extensive disease involving areas such as the bowel or bladder is suspected.¹

Ask what your report says about the areas examined. If you have a copy, take it with you so the discussion can refer to the findings rather than the single word “normal.”

What laparoscopy adds

Laparoscopy is keyhole surgery under general anesthesia. It may be offered when initial treatment has not adequately helped symptoms. The surgeon can examine the pelvis for endometriosis and may treat it during the operation.¹

Before a procedure is booked, ask what you would be consenting to if endometriosis is found. You can also ask how the team will explain the findings afterward and what follow-up will be arranged.

Choose the next conversation

RCOG describes care decisions based on symptoms, the extent of disease and personal priorities, including pregnancy plans. Discuss those priorities when weighing treatment or further investigation.¹

Put one practical concern at the top of your notes: missed work, pain with sex, disrupted sleep or the activity you keep postponing. That gives you a way to explain why the next step matters.

Period, Handled includes a Period Scorecard. Use it to organize the symptoms and questions you want to bring. See the book.