- Standard ultrasound misses most non-cyst disease.
- A dedicated endometriosis MRI is the key planning scan.
- A normal scan does not exclude endometriosis.
Transvaginal ultrasound — good but limited
Standard transvaginal ultrasound reliably detects ovarian endometriomas ('chocolate cysts'). It misses superficial peritoneal disease and often misses deep infiltrating endometriosis unless done by an accredited endometriosis sonographer.
Dedicated endometriosis MRI
A dedicated endometriosis MRI protocol includes bowel preparation, vaginal opacification and specific sequences to map deep disease of the bowel, bladder and uterosacral ligaments. This is the imaging that changes surgical planning.
Frequently asked questions
Can a normal MRI exclude endometriosis?
No — superficial disease is not visible on any scan. Laparoscopy is still the gold standard.
How long is the MRI?
30–45 minutes; no contrast is required for most protocols.
Is it available on the NHS?
Yes but often with long waits — many women self-fund the MRI to speed up planning.
Could a doctor-led plan help you?
A 30-minute video consultation with Dr Berra Önsoy — reviewing your symptoms and imaging and giving you a clear personalised plan for endometriosis surgery.
Request a video consultation