Can an MRI detect endometriosis or adenomyosis?

Yes. Your full-body MRI takes T1, T2 and diffusion images of your pelvis, and the pelvic MRI adds a high-resolution side-on (sagittal) scan. Together they can show endometriomas (cysts caused by endometriosis) and deep endometriosis, including where ultrasound often struggles, like the bladder and ureters. They can also show adenomyosis, where lining tissue grows into the uterine muscle, and tell it apart from endometriosis.

Superficial endometriosis on the pelvic lining usually doesn't show on any scan, so a normal MRI doesn't rule it out. If you have very painful periods or pain during sex, see your gynaecologist now.