Can endometriosis cause sciatica or leg pain?

Yes—endometriosis can cause sciatica-like symptoms and leg pain in some patients. This can happen if endometriosis grows in or near the sciatic nerve (often deep in the pelvis near the sciatic notch) or if endometriosis-driven inflammation and scarring irritate nearby tissues and pelvic floor muscles, creating nerve pressure and referred pain that feels like classic sciatica.

Endometriosis-related sciatica may be cyclical (worsening before or during a period and lingering after), but it doesn’t have to be. Symptoms can include deep buttock pain, pain radiating down the back of the leg, tingling, and—more concerning—weakness, gait changes, or even foot drop, which can signal nerve involvement.

Because leg pain has multiple possible causes (including spine and hip conditions), we take a whole-picture approach and don’t dismiss “extra-pelvic” symptoms when endometriosis is on the table. Our team can help evaluate whether your pattern fits endometriosis-related nerve involvement and whether advanced imaging like MRI may be useful, and then discuss options—including minimally invasive excision—aimed at lasting relief.