Can endometriosis be seen on an ultrasound?

Sometimes, but not always. Ultrasound can be helpful, though a normal scan doesn't rule endometriosis out. A specialist can explain the pathway for your situation.

Is laparoscopy always needed?

No. Diagnosis begins with history, examination and imaging. Laparoscopy is used in some cases to confirm the diagnosis, decided together with a clinician.

Endometriosis: Symptoms & Diagnosis

Endometriosis symptoms and diagnosis

Endometriosis is a common condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows in other places. It can cause pain and other symptoms, though experiences vary widely.

This page explains the common symptoms and the pathway to diagnosis.

Key points

Endometriosis involves tissue similar to the uterine lining growing elsewhere.
Symptoms vary widely, pain is common but not universal.
Diagnosis combines history, examination, imaging, and sometimes laparoscopy.
Getting assessed can end years of uncertainty.

Last reviewed 28 June 2026

Common symptoms

Symptoms differ between people, and their severity doesn't always match the extent of endometriosis.

Period pain that affects daily life
Pelvic pain outside of periods
Pain during or after sex
Pain with bowel or bladder function
Sometimes, difficulty conceiving

The diagnostic pathway

Diagnosis often begins with your history and an examination. Imaging such as ultrasound can help, though it doesn't always show endometriosis. In some cases, a laparoscopy (keyhole surgery) is used to confirm the diagnosis.

Why diagnosis can take time

Because symptoms vary and imaging is not always conclusive, diagnosis can take time. Seeking assessment for persistent symptoms is an important step.

When to see a specialist

If you have persistent period or pelvic pain, pain during sex, or difficulty conceiving, it's worth seeking review to discuss assessment for endometriosis.

Frequently asked questions

Sources & further reading

This page is structured around information from reputable Australian health bodies:

More plain-language reading from Dr Sivadas.

EndometriosisTreatment options EndometriosisAdenomyosis Menstrual & BleedingPainful periods Pelvic PainChronic pelvic pain

Written & medically reviewed by

Dr Priya Sivadas

FRANZCOG, CREI, MMed · Fertility and Gynaecology Specialist

Last reviewed: 28 June 2026

Read Dr Sivadas's profile

drpriyasivadas.com.au

Think you might have endometriosis?

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Consulting locations

Parramatta

Monash IVF

Level 2, 1 Fennell Street
Parramatta NSW 2151

Bella Vista

Norwest Private Hospital

Suite 106, 11 Norbrik Drive
Bella Vista NSW 2153

Penrith

Somerset Specialist Centre

Level 3/38 Somerset St
Penrith NSW 2747