In this video from John Hopkins Medicine, Dr. Kristin Patzkowsky from the Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, answers some frequently asked questions about endometriosis.

MORE: Telling your partner you have endometriosis.

Dr. Patzkowsky explains that symptoms of endometriosis can range from extreme pain to no symptoms at all, but commonly women experience severe pain around the time of their periods. She goes on to say that diagnosis is difficult because it can only be definitively diagnosed through surgery and talks about how endometriosis can affect fertility for many women.

Treatment options for women living with endometriosis range from medical to surgical, but hormone-based therapies like the birth control pill are usually tried first before surgical options are considered.

MORE: 12 common places where endometriosis lesions can be found. 

Endometriosis News is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.