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Bladder Endometriosis

Bladder endometriosis occurs when endometrial-like tissue grows on the surface of the bladder or within the bladder wall. Although less common than ovarian or pelvic endometriosis, it can significantly affect a woman’s comfort, urinary health, and overall quality of life. Because symptoms often resemble urinary infections, many women experience delays in diagnosis.

This condition typically causes cycle-related urinary discomfort, pelvic pain, or pressure. In deeper cases, the bladder wall may become thickened, leading to difficulty in fully emptying the bladder or increased frequency of urination. Early detection and specialised treatment can prevent progression and protect long-term bladder function.

Common Symptoms of Bladder Endometriosis

Symptoms may mimic urinary tract infections (UTIs) but tend to worsen around menstruation. Understanding these signs can help women seek timely evaluation.

  • Pain or burning while urinating: Especially during periods.
  • Frequent urge to urinate: Even when the bladder is not full.
  • Pelvic pressure or bladder discomfort: Often worsening near menstruation.
  • Lower abdominal or pelvic pain: May radiate to the lower back.
  • Blood in urine: Especially during periods (cyclic hematuria).
  • Incomplete bladder emptying: A constant feeling of fullness.
  • Pain during intercourse: Particularly with deep penetration.

How Bladder Endometriosis Is Diagnosed

Diagnosis requires a combination of gynecologic evaluation and imaging to assess the extent of bladder involvement. Because the bladder is a delicate structure, accurate mapping is essential before planning treatment.

Bladder Endometriosis
  • Pelvic examination: Helps detect tenderness or nodules near the bladder area.
  • Pelvic ultrasound: Useful for identifying bladder wall thickening or nearby lesions.
  • MRI scan: Highly effective in detecting deep bladder involvement and surrounding adhesions.
  • Cystoscopy (if needed): Allows direct visualization of bladder lesions from the inside.
  • Diagnostic laparoscopy: Gold standard for confirming the presence, extent, and depth of bladder endometriosis.

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the depth of the lesion, severity of symptoms, and the patient’s fertility goals. Minimally invasive laparoscopic or robotic surgery provides safe and effective removal while preserving bladder function.

  • Medical therapy: Hormonal treatments may help control early or mild disease.
  • Laparoscopic excision: Standard approach to remove lesions from the bladder surface.
  • Partial cystectomy: Required in deeper cases where endometriosis infiltrates the bladder wall.
  • Adhesiolysis: Removal of scar tissue that restricts bladder mobility or causes pain.
  • Fertility-sparing approach: Careful surgical planning for women wishing to conceive.

With expert minimally invasive surgery, most women experience significant improvement in urinary comfort, pelvic pain, and overall quality of life. Recovery is typically quick, with reduced risk of recurrence when the disease is completely excised.

Benefits of Early & Accurate Treatment

  • Restoration of normal bladder function
  • Relief from urinary pain and cycle-related discomfort
  • Lower risk of disease progression
  • Better reproductive outcomes
  • Improved long-term quality of life

If you experience persistent urinary discomfort, pain during periods, or symptoms resembling repeated UTIs, bladder endometriosis may be the underlying cause. With timely evaluation and advanced treatment options, long-lasting relief and improved daily comfort are absolutely achievable.