Endometriosis Stage 1

This is the earliest stage of manifestation. “Endometrial tissue infiltrates the peritoneum”, or in plain speech, tissue similar to the uterus lining, ‘the endometrium’ grows outside of the womb.

There may be small growths or areas of tissue damage and minimal scarring. Here, the excess tissue hasn’t yet infiltrated any other organs.

Endometriosis Stage 2

Stage two shows progression of the condition. Endometrial tissue starts extends deeper into the layers of pelvic organs, showing more signs of inflammation, scarring and small ahesions.

The presence of ovarian cysts at this stage raises the risk of rupture, and it increases the chance of endometriosis spreading within the pelvic cavity.

Endometriosis Stage 3

Stage three shows a notable presence of deep implants or ‘growths’ and one or both ovaries may exhibit small cysts and adhesions.

This can affect the organs located within the pelvic cavity, and may impact the ovaries, rectum, and uterus, leading to substantial distortions in the pelvic region.

Endometriosis Stage 4

Stage four shows widespread and deeply infiltrating implants or growths, extensive scarring, and adhesions or ‘obliteration of the womb’.

The tissue growth deeply infiltrates the pelvic organs and may grow outside the pelvic area, e.g. on organs such as the bowels, appendix, diaphragm, heart, and lungs.

Endometriosis expert surgeon and head of sonography George Condous, specialises in early reproductive health and the diagnosis of Endometriosis. He speaks to common symptoms of the condition, and what this means for your diagnosis.

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