The message to be gained from treatment is that it is important to INDIVIDUALISE EACH PATIENT'S TREATMENT DEPENDING UPON THE SEVERITY OF THE ENDOMETRIOSIS AND THE SYMPTOMS THAT SHE IS HAVING. It is also important to assess the patient's level of symptoms, her demands for future children, as well as her social and occupational requirements. Good discussion with each patient, as well as the adequate provision of information is essential in this process. Endometriosis is often a chronic disease and a good level of patient understanding is essential. Some patients with endometriosis will have increasing fertility problems. Fortunately, the results of assisted reproduction (such as IVF) after treatment for endometriosis are very good. Most patients with endometriosis, even if they have an initial problem with their fertility, end up becoming pregnant after adequate and carefully monitored treatment. Some will require a higher level of technology to achieve a pregnancy, such as IVF or GIFT. Whilst pregnancy is not a complete and definitive cure for endometriosis, the combination of pregnancy plus breastfeeding significantly slows down the course of the disease and, in fact, may get rid of it entirely.

These notes have been designed to provide information for patients who have recently had endometriosis diagnosed and are seeking more information. Please do not hesitate to discuss any aspect of your problem and ask for further information. Any comments on these notes which you think may be of assistance would also be welcome.