Services

Nerve Endometriosis

Nerve endometriosis is a rare but severe form of endometriosis in which endometrial-like tissue affects the pelvic nerves. These nerves may include the sciatic nerve, sacral nerves, or other nerve structures within the pelvis. Because nerve involvement can cause intense pain and neurological symptoms, early recognition and expert management are essential.

When endometriosis involves nerves, pain may extend beyond the pelvis and radiate to the legs, hips, buttocks, or lower back. Symptoms often worsen around menstruation and may progress over time if untreated. Accurate diagnosis and precise surgical planning are crucial to prevent long-term nerve damage.

Common Symptoms of Nerve Endometriosis

Symptoms depend on which nerve is affected and may mimic orthopedic or neurological conditions. Awareness of these signs can help in early detection.

  • Severe pelvic pain: Often deep, sharp, or burning in nature.
  • Radiating leg pain (sciatica-like pain): Pain extending from the pelvis to the thigh or foot.
  • Lower back or hip pain: Worsening during menstruation.
  • Numbness or tingling: In the legs or pelvic region.
  • Weakness in the leg: In advanced cases with nerve compression.
  • Pain during walking or sitting: Especially during periods.
  • Pain during intercourse: Due to deep pelvic nerve involvement.

How Nerve Endometriosis Is Diagnosed

Diagnosing nerve endometriosis requires specialised evaluation, as routine scans may not always detect nerve involvement. A combination of imaging and minimally invasive techniques helps accurately locate the disease.

Nerve Endometriosis
  • Detailed symptom assessment: Mapping pain patterns and cycle-related symptoms.
  • Pelvic examination: May reveal tenderness or restricted pelvic structures.
  • MRI pelvis: Highly valuable in identifying deep infiltrating endometriosis affecting nerves.
  • Advanced imaging protocols: Used to assess sciatic or sacral nerve involvement.
  • Diagnostic laparoscopy: Gold standard for confirmation and treatment planning.

Treatment Options

Treatment is individualized based on symptom severity, extent of nerve involvement, and fertility goals. Management often requires advanced laparoscopic expertise and careful nerve-sparing techniques.

  • Medical therapy: Hormonal treatment may help reduce pain in selected cases.
  • Advanced laparoscopic excision: Precise removal of endometriotic tissue while preserving nerve function.
  • Nerve-sparing surgery: Specialized techniques to prevent long-term nerve damage.
  • Multidisciplinary approach: Collaboration with pain specialists or neurologists for complex cases.
  • Fertility-preserving care: Treatment planned carefully for women wishing to conceive.

When performed by an experienced minimally invasive surgeon, laparoscopic excision offers the best chance for pain relief, functional recovery, and improved quality of life. Early intervention significantly reduces the risk of permanent nerve injury.

Benefits of Expert Management

  • Relief from chronic and radiating pain
  • Preservation of nerve function
  • Improved mobility and daily comfort
  • Reduced disease progression
  • Better long-term quality of life

If you experience severe pelvic pain, leg pain, or neurological symptoms that worsen during menstruation, nerve endometriosis may be the underlying cause. With advanced diagnostic tools and specialised minimally invasive surgery, effective treatment and long-lasting relief are achievable.