What is the recommended diagnostic method for confirming endometriosis?

Laparoscopy is considered the gold standard for diagnosing endometriosis because it allows direct visualization of the pelvic organs and the possibility of obtaining tissue samples for histological examination. This minimally invasive surgical procedure provides accurate insights into the presence, extent, and severity of endometriosis that cannot be confirmed through imaging or blood tests.

While imaging techniques like MRI and ultrasound can suggest the presence of endometriosis and assess the condition of pelvic organs, they are not definitive. MRI can be particularly useful for evaluating deep infiltrating endometriosis, but it does not allow for direct observation or biopsy. Ultrasound is helpful in identifying ovarian endometriomas but may miss lesions in other areas such as the peritoneum or ligaments.

Blood tests may offer insight into the presence of certain markers associated with endometriosis, such as elevated levels of CA-125, but these tests are not specific and cannot confirm the diagnosis. Therefore, laparoscopy stands out as the superior method because it not only confirms the diagnosis of endometriosis but also allows for potential treatment during the same procedure.