Endometriosis

DC 7629Gynecological/Breast38 CFR 4.116, DC 7629

A condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus, causing pain, heavy periods, and sometimes trouble getting pregnant. The VA rates endometriosis based on your symptoms like pain, bowel or bladder problems, and menstrual irregularities.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on how much it affects your ability to work and carry out daily activities. The examiner will focus on the functional limitations your condition causes, not just the diagnosis itself.

Diagnostic code

DC 7629

Rating range

0% – 50%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.116, DC 7629. This guide presents a plain-language summary and is not a substitute for the full regulatory text. Always consult a VSO or VA-accredited attorney for case-specific advice.

Rating Levels

Your endometriosis involves lesions confirmed by laparoscopy, along with pelvic pain or heavy or irregular bleeding not controlled by treatment, and bowel or bladder symptoms.

What the VA looks for

Laparoscopy-confirmed lesions involving bowel or bladder
Pelvic pain not controlled by treatment
Heavy or irregular bleeding not controlled by treatment
Bowel symptoms (pain with bowel movements, constipation, diarrhea)
Bladder symptoms (urinary urgency, frequency, pain)

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting a laparoscopy to confirm lesion involvement of bowel or bladder, which is required for the 50% rating. Imaging alone may not be sufficient.
⚠Failing to document that symptoms persist despite treatment. Keep a symptom diary and report breakthrough pain and bleeding to your doctor.
⚠Not connecting endometriosis to military service, such as delayed diagnosis during service, exposure to environmental toxins, or symptom onset during active duty.
⚠Overlooking secondary conditions like depression, anxiety, irritable bowel syndrome, or infertility that can be filed as secondary claims.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Gynecological Conditions and Disorders of the Breast

View evidence checklist →C&P exam prep guide →See secondary conditions →

Related Conditions

Conditions commonly associated with Endometriosis or rated under the same body system.

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)

DC 9434·Mental Disorders·Possible secondary

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

DC 7319·Digestive·Possible secondary

Female Infertility

DC 7632·Gynecological/Breast·Possible secondary

Uterine Fibroids (Leiomyomata)

DC 7613·Gynecological/Breast

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

DC 7615·Gynecological/Breast

Hysterectomy Residuals

DC 7618·Gynecological/Breast

Ovarian Cysts

DC 7615·Gynecological/Breast

Cervicitis

DC 7612·Gynecological/Breast

Condition Rating Guides

Understand what the VA looks for at each rating level — loading conditions…

Endometriosis

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 7629

Rating range

0% – 50%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

Your endometriosis involves lesions confirmed by laparoscopy, along with pelvic pain or heavy or irregular bleeding not controlled by treatment, and bowel or bladder symptoms.

What the VA looks for

Laparoscopy-confirmed lesions involving bowel or bladder
Pelvic pain not controlled by treatment
Heavy or irregular bleeding not controlled by treatment
Bowel symptoms (pain with bowel movements, constipation, diarrhea)
Bladder symptoms (urinary urgency, frequency, pain)

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting a laparoscopy to confirm lesion involvement of bowel or bladder, which is required for the 50% rating. Imaging alone may not be sufficient.

⚠Failing to document that symptoms persist despite treatment. Keep a symptom diary and report breakthrough pain and bleeding to your doctor.

⚠Not connecting endometriosis to military service, such as delayed diagnosis during service, exposure to environmental toxins, or symptom onset during active duty.

⚠Overlooking secondary conditions like depression, anxiety, irritable bowel syndrome, or infertility that can be filed as secondary claims.