AIM: The aim of this study was to evaluate how many patients with endometriosis 
have concomitant irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and/or constipation according to 
the Rome III criteria. Furthermore, the value of an additional 
gastroenterological consultation with therapeutic advice was evaluated.
METHOD: Patients with proven endometriosis were included in a prospective, 
single-centre study. A questionnaire was undertaken regarding IBS and chronic 
constipation. Patients with symptoms consistent with the Rome III criteria for 
IBS were referred to our gastroenterological outpatient clinic.
RESULTS: In total 101 patients were included. Endometriosis was diagnosed 
surgically in 97% and visually in the vagina in 3%. Fifteen per cent of the 
patients with endometriosis also had IBS and 14% of the patients with 
endometriosis had functional constipation without IBS. Of the 22 patients 
finally presenting to the gastroenterologist, five had a significant stenotic 
rectosigmoid lesion and were treated surgically. The remaining 17 patients were 
treated conservatively. Defecation symptoms improved in 86% and pain was reduced 
in 64%.
CONCLUSION: In patients with endometriosis, 29% also had IBS or constipation. 
Referral to a gastroenterologist resulted in improvement of defaecation in 86%, 
and 64% reported a reduction in the degree of pain.