Endometriosis is a chronic condition that affects around 1 in 10 people with a female reproductive system and is commonly associated with significant pain and discomfort. It occurs when endometrial tissue (which is usually only found on the lining of the womb) grows outside of the womb, in places such as the abdomen or pelvis.
The symptoms of endometriosis can have a major impact on daily life, and it can take many years for individuals to receive a diagnosis. In some cases, when other treatments have not been effective or appropriate, specialist doctors may consider medical cannabis to support with the associated symptoms.
The symptoms of endometriosis – and their severity – can vary widely from person to person. Common symptoms include:
Many individuals also experience heavy or irregular periods and severe period pain, which can sometimes interfere with day-to-day activities.
Endometriosis can be painful because tissue similar to the lining of the womb grows in places where it cannot shed or leave the body in the usual way. During the menstrual cycle, this tissue can thicken and break down in response to hormonal changes, but when it is outside the uterus, it has no direct way to exit the body.
This can lead to inflammation, irritation, and the formation of scar tissue (adhesions) in areas such as the pelvis and abdomen, which contain many sensitive nerve fibres. Over time, this irritation and scar tissue can contribute to persistent or worsening pain.
Pain can vary widely between individuals but may occur around menstruation, during intercourse, when using the bowel or bladder, or at other times throughout the cycle.
For many people, receiving a diagnosis of endometriosis can take years. The condition is complex, and its symptoms can overlap with those of other conditions such as adenomyosis, irritable bowel syndrome, or uterine fibroids. Because of this, doctors often need to build a detailed picture of a patient’s symptoms over time.
During the diagnostic process, a GP may ask about symptoms and how they relate to the menstrual cycle, and they may carry out an examination of the abdomen or pelvis. In some cases, patients may be referred for further investigations, such as ultrasound scans or specialist gynaecology assessment.
Treatment for endometriosis will depend on a person’s symptoms, overall health, and individual circumstances. A GP may first suggest pain relief options and, in some cases, hormonal medicines such as the combined oral contraceptive pill or progestogen-only methods. These treatments aim to help manage symptoms, but their suitability varies from person to person.
If symptoms persist or are severe, a GP may refer someone to a gynaecologist for further assessment. While imaging such as ultrasound or MRI may be used to investigate symptoms, a laparoscopy (keyhole surgery) is currently the only way to confirm a diagnosis of endometriosis.
Alongside clinical treatments, some people find that diet or lifestyle adjustments provide additional support in managing symptoms. However, evidence is still emerging in this area. Therefore, these approaches are based largely on personal experience and may not be effective for everyone.
If a patient has tried other treatments without adequate relief, a specialist doctor may consider medical cannabis for symptoms such as pain and disturbed sleep, depending on clinical need and individual circumstances.
There is currently no cure for endometriosis, so treatment largely focuses on managing related symptoms. Some patients may have the endometrial deposits outside of the womb removed via keyhole surgery, but anywhere up to two-thirds of individuals may experience recurrence.
Some patients explore medical cannabis as a potential option when other treatments have not been effective or appropriate. Specialist doctors may consider it for unmanaged symptoms such as pelvic pain, gastrointestinal discomfort, disrupted sleep, or low mood, depending on individual clinical need.
As with any treatment, responses to medical cannabis vary, and its suitability is assessed on a case-by-case basis as part of a wider care plan.
View our FAQ’s section and learn more about all the conditions that can be treatable with medical cannabis.
