Pathophysiology of mild endometriosis: review of literature

Abstract

Endometriosis is a puzzling condition and the literature is characterized by a large number of uncontrolled reports on its aetiology and pathophysiology. In particular the relationship between mild endometriosis and subfecundity is uncertain. This paper critically reviews the published literature on the pathogenesis, prevalence, menstrual symptomatology and natural history of endometriosis. Furthermore, factors implicated in causing subfecundity in relation to endometriosis and the impact of various treatments in enhancing fertility among women with mild endometriosis have been assessed.