Endometriosis is a long-term condition in which tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, usually on the ovaries, pelvic lining and ligaments. It commonly causes painful periods, chronic pelvic pain, pain during sex and difficulty conceiving. It is assessed with symptoms, examination and ultrasound, confirmed by laparoscopy when needed, and managed with pain relief, hormonal treatment or surgery.
- How common
- About 10% of reproductive-age women (WHO)
- Main symptoms
- Period pain, pelvic pain, infertility
- First tests
- Exam and transvaginal ultrasound
- Confirmation
- Laparoscopy with biopsy
- Treatment
- Pain relief · hormones · surgery
- Cost guide
- Consult/imaging ₩100,000–300,000
What is endometriosis?
In endometriosis, endometrium-like tissue implants outside the uterus. It responds to monthly hormone changes, causing inflammation, scarring and adhesions that can bind pelvic organs together. On the ovary it can form a fluid-filled cyst called an endometrioma(“chocolate cyst”).
A related condition, adenomyosis, is when similar tissue grows into the muscle wall of the uterus; the two often occur together. The severity of pain does not always match the amount of disease seen.
Symptoms of endometriosis
- Period pain that is severe, worsening over time or not helped by usual painkillers
- Pelvic or lower back pain between periods
- Deep pain during or after intercourse
- Pain with bowel movements or urination, especially during your period
- Heavy periods, fatigue and bloating
- Difficulty getting pregnant
Pain from endometriosis overlaps with other causes. Our pages on painful periods and pelvic pain look at the wider list of causes.
How endometriosis is diagnosed
- Consultation in English Your pain pattern, cycle, bowel and bladder symptoms, fertility plans and previous treatments are reviewed.
- Pelvic examination Tenderness, nodules or fixed organs can suggest deeper disease.
- Transvaginal ultrasound Same-day pelvic ultrasound can show endometriomas and signs of adenomyosis or deep disease; a normal scan does not rule out small surface lesions.
- Further imaging if needed MRI may be arranged when deep endometriosis is suspected or surgery is being planned.
- Laparoscopy Keyhole surgery allows the surgeon to see and biopsy lesions and, often, treat them at the same time.
Treatment options compared
| Option | How it helps | Things to know |
|---|---|---|
| Pain relief (NSAIDs) | Reduces period pain and inflammation | First step; does not slow the disease |
| Combined pill or progestin (e.g., dienogest) | Suppresses periods and lesion activity | Long-term use common; side effects vary |
| Hormonal IUD | Local progestin, lighter and less painful periods | Also contraception; see IUD insertion |
| GnRH medicines | Strongly lower estrogen to quiet the disease | Short courses; menopause-like effects |
| Laparoscopic surgery | Removes or destroys lesions, cysts and adhesions | Considered for severe pain, endometriomas or fertility; can recur |
Treatment is not chosen by test results alone: your age, pain, wish to conceive and how you respond to medicines all matter. Hormonal treatments prevent pregnancy, so women trying to conceive are often guided toward surgery or fertility care instead.
Endometriosis implants and an ovarian endometrioma cause inflammation, adhesions and pelvic pain.
After laparoscopic excision the visible lesions and cyst are removed and the pelvic organs are freed.
Endometriosis care at Yoonho
At Yoonho Women’s Hospital in Apgujeong, Seoul, the first visit usually includes an English consultation and same-day ultrasound with Dr. Sun-Ok Lee. If laparoscopy is advised, it is performed by Dr. Jung-Ho Seo, a laparoscopic gynecologic surgeon and former AAGL editorial board member, with the plan, risks and recovery explained beforehand. Ovarian cysts are discussed on our ovarian cyst page and cyst surgery on cystectomy.
Cost and insurance
As a general guide, consultation and imaging are about ₩100,000–300,000, and laparoscopic surgery about ₩2,500,000–5,000,000 depending on extent and stay. A written estimate is given after consultation. Residents in Korea’s National Health Insurance are usually covered for a large part of medically necessary care (see insurance for foreigners); travelers can request English documents for travel insurance claims.
Why international patients choose Yoonho
Frequently asked questions
Can endometriosis be cured?
There is no permanent cure, but symptoms can usually be controlled. Surgery removes visible disease, and hormonal treatment helps reduce the chance of symptoms returning.
Can I get pregnant with endometriosis?
Many women with endometriosis conceive naturally. It can reduce fertility, so if you are trying to conceive, discuss timing of treatment and fertility evaluation early.
Will an ultrasound always show endometriosis?
No. Ultrasound shows endometriomas and some deep disease well, but small surface lesions are often invisible. Laparoscopy is the only way to confirm them.
Can I continue my treatment from home in Korea?
Usually, yes. Bring your previous reports and medication names; many hormonal treatments are available in Korea, and prescriptions are adjusted after review.
Does endometriosis get better after menopause?
Symptoms often improve after menopause as estrogen levels fall, although some women continue to have pain.
OB-GYN Specialist · Director of OB-GYN
M.D., Ewha Womans University College of Medicine · Former Clinical Instructor, Ewha Womans University Mokdong Hospital · Member, Korean Society of Menopause
Last reviewed: . This page is for general information and does not replace an in-person consultation.
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Yoonho Hospital · 304 Apgujeong-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul · Mon–Fri 9:00–18:00, Sat 9:00–13:00 · Walk-ins welcome.