Written by the Amorae care team · Last reviewed · How we write our health content
Part of our endometriosis guide · Browse every question we answer
What is endometriosis?
It’s a condition that affects 1 in 10 women and people assigned female at birth in the UK. Here’s a plain English guide to what’s happening in your body and how to get help.
The short answer
Endometriosis (often just called 'endo') is a chronic condition where tissue similar to the lining of your womb starts to grow in other places. You might find it on your ovaries, fallopian tubes, or the tissues lining your pelvis.
The trouble is, this tissue acts just like the lining of your womb. It builds up and breaks down every month. But unlike a period, this blood has no way to leave your body. This causes inflammation, scarring, and, for many, significant pain.
Common signs and symptoms
Endometriosis isn't just "bad period cramps." It's a full-body condition that can feel different for everyone. Some of the most common signs include:
- Pelvic pain: Often worse during your period, but can be constant.
- Heavy periods: Needing to change products very frequently or seeing large clots.
- Painful sex: Discomfort during or after intimacy.
- Fatigue: A deep, heavy tiredness that doesn't improve with rest.
- Bowel and bladder issues: Pain when going to the loo, or feeling bloated (often called 'endo belly').
Important: If you're experiencing these symptoms, please speak to your GP. You know your body best, and you don't have to just "put up" with pain.
Getting a diagnosis
Getting an endometriosis diagnosis can be a bit of a slog—in the UK, it takes an average of eight years from the first symptoms. It usually starts with a chat with your GP.
They might send you for an ultrasound or a physical exam. While these are useful to rule other things out, they often won't show endometriosis. The only "gold standard" way to confirm it is through a laparoscopy. This is a small operation under general anaesthetic where a surgeon uses a tiny camera to look inside your pelvis.
Living with endometriosis
Living with endo means finding a toolkit that works for you. While there isn't a cure yet, there are plenty of ways to manage the symptoms and improve your quality of life.
This usually involves a combination of medical care—like hormone treatments or surgery to remove the tissue—alongside daily support. Many people find relief through pelvic physiotherapy, dietary changes, and local pelvic support to help manage the daily discomfort that comes with the condition.
Medical Disclaimer: Amorae products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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Amorae Intimate is a wellness CBD product. It is not a licensed medicine and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any medical condition. If you experience severe or persistent pelvic pain, or you have a diagnosed condition such as endometriosis, please speak to a healthcare professional. Do not use if pregnant or breastfeeding. For adults aged 18 and over, resident in the United Kingdom.