Which condition can lead to chronic pelvic pain if untreated?

Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the lining inside the uterus begins to grow outside the uterus. This can lead to chronic pelvic pain due to several factors. First, the displaced endometrial-like tissue continues to respond to hormonal fluctuations throughout the menstrual cycle, leading to recurrent inflammation, scarring, and the formation of adhesions within the pelvic cavity. These processes can create significant discomfort and pain, particularly during menstruation, but also at other times throughout the cycle.

When left untreated, the inflammation and scar tissue can lead to more severe and persistent pain, significantly impacting a person's quality of life. It may cause additional complications such as infertility or other complications during pregnancy. While conditions like cervical dysplasia, PMS, and polycystic ovary syndrome can cause discomfort or other symptoms, they are not typically associated with the same level of chronic pelvic pain as endometriosis, especially when considering the long-term consequences of untreated cases.