The condition, which affects one in 10 women of reproductive age, is closely linked to infertility, with nearly half of those affected facing difficulty conceiving.
Consultant gynaecologist Dr Tan Ee Ping said many women only discover the condition when they struggle to conceive.
“Nearly 50% of women with endometriosis face infertility,” she said. “But by the time it is diagnosed, significant damage may already have occurred.”
Endometriosis can lead to inflammation, ovarian cysts and scar tissue, making conception more difficult. If left untreated, it may persist until menopause and could increase the risk of ovarian cancer.
Thankfully, treatment has evolved in recent years, particularly in surgical care.
Endometriosis specialist Dr Sharifah Halimah Jaafar said procedures such as laparoscopy and robotic-assisted surgery allowed doctors to remove endometrial tissue and adhesions with greater precision.
“Robotic surgery has transformed treatment, offering better visualisation, improved precision and faster recovery,” she said.
However, she stressed that surgery alone was not a cure. “A comprehensive treatment plan is essential, including hormonal therapy, lifestyle adjustments such as diet and stress management, and regular follow-ups to prevent recurrence.”
Dedicated care centre
Tan, meanwhile, noted that many patients require multiple surgeries, especially when diagnosis comes late. She cited studies showing a significant proportion of women undergoing repeat procedures over their lifetime.
She explained that endometriosis is a complex condition that may affect multiple organs, including the bladder, bowel and even the diaphragm. As such, it requires input from different medical specialists.
“This is why specialised centres are important, as they provide coordinated care across all affected areas,” she said.
Sharifah also highlighted the need for a dedicated centre of excellence for endometriosis in Malaysia, offering advanced diagnostics and more structured care.
She said greater awareness, better training and stronger policy support were needed to address the condition more effectively.
Ultimately, the experts agree that earlier detection and intervention can make a significant difference.
“If diagnosed early, many patients may avoid surgery and reduce their risk of infertility,” Tan concluded.