Prevention of Endometriosis

There is no proven way to prevent endometriosis, because its cause is not known. What you can do is catch it early, lower the burden of symptoms, and protect your wellbeing.

What cannot be changed

• Family history and genetics.
• How early your periods began and how long your cycle is.

What may reduce risk or severity

• Hormonal treatments. Continuous use of the pill or other hormonal methods suppresses periods and may reduce the growth of endometriosis. These are used for treatment, and the choice should be made with a doctor.
• Regular exercise. Research suggests regular physical activity may be linked with a lower risk and helps with pain.
• A balanced diet, with plenty of vegetables, fruit and fibre, and limited alcohol and processed food.
• A healthy weight.

The most useful step: catch it early

• Do not accept severe period pain as normal. See a doctor if pain disrupts life.
• Keep a symptom diary and share it with the doctor.
• If you have a mother or sister with endometriosis, mention it at your first appointment.
• Ask for referral to a gynaecologist if first-line treatment has not helped within a few months.