How should I interpret the results of a pelvic exam for endometriosis?

Results of a pelvic exam may include the following.

Normal

Pelvic exam is normal.

• No abnormal tissue is found in the area between the uterus and rectum (cul-de-sac) or in the ligaments that hold the uterus in place.
• No pelvic pain or tenderness is present.
• No hardening of tissue (induration) is felt.
• The uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries are normal in size and location.
• The uterus can be moved slightly without causing pain.

Abnormal

Uterus

Results that may point to endometriosis include the following:

• Your doctor may not be able to move the uterus even slightly during the exam, meaning that scar tissue (adhesions) may be binding the uterus.
• You have pain or tenderness when the uterus is moved slightly.

Outside of the uterus

Results that may point to endometriosis include the following:

• You have pain when the area between the uterus and rectum is touched.
• Abnormal tissue is felt near the uterus or between the uterus and rectum.
• The ovaries are painful when touched, are enlarged or are not movable. This means that adhesions may be holding the ovaries in place.
• Hardening of tissue is felt.
• The folds of skin around the opening of the vagina (external genitalia, labia) have small bluish bumps (lesions).
• Lesions are present on the surface of the vagina or cervix.