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Could your pain be due to endometriosis?

	Endometriosis can be difficult to diagnose. Turn to ConsumerReportsHealth.org to see how many women consult several doctors before they are accurately diagnosed and treated.
	Subscribe to ConsumerReportsHealth.org today to see what treatments work best.

If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with endometriosis, you're not alone. Consumer Reports Health is here to help with the best research about endometriosis, and expert evidence and advice about treatment options.

Key points for women with endometriosis

• Endometriosis is very common. About 5.5 million women in North America have this condition.
• It can be harmless. You only need treatment if it's painful or if you have trouble getting pregnant.
• To find out whether you have endometriosis for sure, you'll need to have a test called a laparoscopy. A surgeon will look inside your body using a small camera.
• Treatments for endometriosis include hormones, surgery, or a combination of both.
• If you have endometriosis, it's important to tell your doctor if you're trying to get pregnant. Some treatments keep you from getting pregnant.

Between 40 percent and 60 percent of women with painful periods have endometriosis. We don't know why some women get endometriosis, but risk factors may include family history, age, and periods that last longer than a week.

There isn't a cure for endometriosis. But if the illness is causing you pain, or if you're having problems getting pregnant (infertility), there are treatments that can help. We encourage you to read our entire condition report and to consult with your doctor to learn more about endometriosis. As a Consumer Reports Health subscriber, you'll have access to our expert research and recommendations, and you'll be more confident and knowledgeable about which treatments are best for you.