Endometriosis Diagnosis Lags a Decade; Non-Invasive Tests Used Abroad Lack U.S. Validation Data

Endometriosis affects roughly 10% of reproductive-age women and involves ectopic endometrial-like tissue triggering chronic inflammation, infertility, and pain during menses, intercourse, or defecation. Patient accounts and observational cohorts consistently document normalization of severe dysmenorrhea by both clinicians and patients, plus symptom overlap with IBS, interstitial cystitis, and pelvic floor dysfunction, as primary drivers of delay. A diary of pain timing, location, and intensity is recommended in ACOG practice bulletins to accelerate specialist referral.