Research

Explore the latest evidence on endometriosis—from who is affected and why, to genetic insights and emerging therapies—so you can understand risks, advances, and what promising treatments may mean for you.

Epidemiology Genetics New Treatments

Overview

Research in endometriosis is moving fast, uncovering why disease starts, why it persists, and which treatments truly help. Summaries here translate high‑quality studies on prevalence, risk factors, pain mechanisms, immune and hormonal signaling, fibrosis, and comorbidities into clear, practical takeaways. Expect context on strengths and limits of study designs, from population cohorts to surgical registries and randomized trials, so it’s easier to judge what findings mean for daily life and shared decision‑making.

Because endometriosis is heterogeneous and often overlaps with adenomyosis, we highlight how results may differ by phenotype and life stage, and when insights extend to adenomyosis with links to Adenomyosis. For deeper dives into specific streams, explore Epidemiology, Genetics, Biomarkers, and New Treatments, or see how innovations in tests relate to care in Diagnostics & Imaging. Learn what’s promising, what’s proven, and how to talk with your clinician about trial options and timing relative to surgery, fertility plans, and symptom goals.

How close are we to a non‑invasive test for endometriosis?

Multiple blood, urine, saliva, and menstrual‑fluid biomarker panels show promise, but none yet meet accuracy standards to replace laparoscopy or expert imaging. Today, diagnosis relies on symptoms assessed alongside targeted ultrasound or MRI; biomarkers may soon complement, not replace, these tools. Track developments in Biomarkers and their clinical use in Diagnostics & Imaging.

What kinds of new treatments are being studied?

Beyond hormones, trials are testing non‑hormonal approaches that target inflammation, nerve sensitization, angiogenesis, and fibrosis, as well as microbiome‑informed strategies. Early results are encouraging for some drug classes, but most remain experimental and should be used only in trials or specialist‑guided care. For up‑to‑date pipelines and readiness levels, see New Treatments.

Should I join a clinical trial?

A well‑designed trial can provide access to emerging therapies and contribute to better care, but it may involve randomization, extra visits, or placebo. Discuss eligibility, safety monitoring, and how participation aligns with planned surgery, fertility timelines, and current medications. Search ClinicalTrials.gov and ask your endometriosis specialist about local options.

Why do studies on endometriosis sometimes disagree?

Endometriosis varies widely by lesion type, location, and prior treatment, and many studies include small, highly selected groups. Differences in diagnostic methods, outcome definitions, and follow‑up length also drive conflicting results. Looking for replication across larger, diverse cohorts and randomized trials helps distinguish signal from noise.

Does microbiome research mean diet changes or probiotics can treat endometriosis now?

Microbiome studies show associations with inflammation and hormone metabolism, but clinical trials proving that specific probiotics or diets reliably reduce disease activity are still limited. Nutrition can support symptom control and overall health, but it should complement—not replace—medical care. For practical, evidence‑informed strategies, see Gut Health and Nutrition, and supplement guidance in Supplements.