Endometriosis – African Centre for Endometriosis
Endometriosis can turn every period into something you dread, and too many women are told their pain is “normal.” At the African Centre for Endometriosis in Kerugoya, Kirinyaga, Kenya, we specialise in diagnosing and treating endometriosis. You get answers, relief and a clear plan that fits your life.
Endometriosis at a Glance
What Is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis happens when tissue similar to the womb lining grows outside the womb. It most often settles on the ovaries, fallopian tubes and pelvic lining. It can also reach the bowel, bladder and ureters.
Each month this tissue responds to your hormones. It bleeds, causes inflammation and, over time, can form scar tissue, adhesions and ovarian cysts called endometriomas.
The World Health Organization estimates that about 1 in 10 women and girls of reproductive age live with endometriosis. Research on endometriosis among African women, co-authored by our founder Dr Njagi, highlights how limited awareness and diagnosis remain across the continent.
Painful periods are common. Pain that stops you living your life is not something you have to accept.
Endometriosis Symptoms: When to See a Specialist
You may need an endometriosis specialist if you have:
Symptoms vary widely. Some women with small lesions have severe pain, while others with advanced disease feel little. Many women wait years for a diagnosis, so do not wait for symptoms to become unbearable.
Seek urgent care for sudden severe pain, fainting, or fever with pelvic pain.
How We Diagnose Endometriosis
Diagnosis starts with listening. We review your cycle, pain pattern, bowel and bladder symptoms, fertility goals and previous treatment. Then we examine you, with your consent, and choose tests that suit your symptoms.
Diagnostic ultrasound for endometriosis
A skilled transvaginal ultrasound can show endometriomas and signs of deep disease in the pelvis, bowel or bladder. Dr Joe Njagi has completed advanced endometriosis imaging training in Rome and Hamburg (2022).
A normal scan does not rule out endometriosis. NICE guidance is clear that the condition should not be excluded based on a normal ultrasound or examination alone.
MRI and laparoscopy
When disease may be deep or widespread, MRI helps map it before surgery. Laparoscopy (keyhole surgery) is used when imaging is unclear, or when we can diagnose and treat in the same operation.
Endometriosis Treatment Options
There is no single treatment that suits everyone. We explain the benefits, risks and alternatives of each option before you decide.
Medical treatment for endometriosis pain
Medicines calm the disease and ease symptoms. Options include:
Side effects can include spotting, mood changes, headaches or hot flushes, and we review how you respond over time. Hormonal treatment controls symptoms but does not remove lesions. It also prevents pregnancy, so it is not suitable while you are trying to conceive.
Endometriosis excision surgery
In laparoscopic excision, the surgeon cuts out endometriosis lesions through small incisions, aiming to remove disease while protecting healthy organs. Excision may include removing endometriomas, adhesions and deep lesions on the pelvic wall, bowel or bladder.
Dr Joe Njagi completed a surgical fellowship in bowel endometriosis management (Erasto Gaertner, 2023). He has also demonstrated live deep infiltrating endometriosis excision at the Endometriosis Marathons organised at 3rd Park Hospital, Nairobi.
The ESHRE endometriosis guideline recognises surgery as an effective option for pain, with recurrence possible. We therefore plan follow-up for every patient.
Endometriosis and fertility
Endometriosis can reduce fertility in some women, but many conceive naturally or with support. Depending on your age, ovarian reserve and scan findings, options may include surgery to improve the pelvic environment, ovulation support, or referral for assisted reproduction.
Our Fertility Enhancement service works alongside endometriosis care so your plan stays joined up.
Long-term support
Endometriosis is a long-term condition. We build a plan that may include symptom tracking, pelvic floor and pain support, nutrition and emotional wellbeing, with regular reviews.
Why Choose African Centre for Endometriosis
Our care is built around endometriosis, not added to a general practice as an afterthought. You are heard, examined with consent, and given explanations in plain language.
Your care is led by Dr Njagi Joseph Nyaga (Dr Joe Njagi). He is also known for his endometriosis education on TikTok, Facebook and Instagram, where millions of followers learn about period pain and endometriosis.
Frequently Asked Questions About Endometriosis
What is endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a long-term condition where tissue similar to the womb lining grows outside the womb, often on the ovaries and pelvic lining. It can cause pain, heavy bleeding, scarring and fertility problems, and it is treatable with the right specialist care.
What are the main symptoms of endometriosis?
Common symptoms include severe period pain, chronic pelvic pain, pain during sex, painful bowel movements or urination during periods, heavy bleeding, bloating, fatigue and difficulty conceiving. Symptoms differ widely, and severity does not always reflect how much disease is present.
Can an ultrasound diagnose endometriosis?
A skilled diagnostic ultrasound for endometriosis can show ovarian endometriomas and deep disease in many women. However, a normal scan does not rule out endometriosis, so we also consider your symptoms, examination findings and, where needed, MRI or laparoscopy.
Can I get pregnant if I have endometriosis?
Yes, many women with endometriosis conceive, either naturally or with help. Endometriosis can reduce fertility in some women, so early assessment matters. We tailor options, from surgery to assisted reproduction, to your age, ovarian reserve and goals.
Is there a cure for endometriosis?
There is currently no permanent cure, but symptoms can be controlled well. Hormonal treatment suppresses disease activity, and excision surgery removes visible lesions. Many women gain lasting relief, though follow-up is important because symptoms can return.
How long is recovery after endometriosis excision surgery?
Recovery depends on the extent of surgery. After keyhole excision, many women return to light activities within one to two weeks. Deep disease involving the bowel or bladder may need longer, and we will give you a clear recovery plan beforehand.
Where can I find an endometriosis specialist in Kenya?
The African Centre for Endometriosis in Kerugoya, Kirinyaga, opposite Fortune Sacco, offers specialist endometriosis diagnosis and excision surgery led by Dr Joe Njagi. Call +254 799 500 555 to arrange a consultation.
You do not have to live with pain. Whether you have a diagnosis or only suspect one, we will help you understand your options and take the next step with confidence.
Medical disclaimer: This page is for general information and is not a substitute for medical advice. Diagnosis and treatment depend on your individual situation, so a consultation with a qualified clinician is required.
Come visit us and see how we can help improve the quality of life for your life!
