Do you know the common symptoms of one of women’s distressing causes of menstrual problems?

Endometriosis is a chronic medical condition that occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the womb (endometrium) grows outside it, usually within the pelvic region.

This tissue can cause inflammation, pain, and the formation of adhesions (scar tissue) that can bind organs together.

The severity of symptoms can vary widely among individuals, and some may experience minimal discomfort while others might have significant pain and disruptions to daily life.

Common Symptoms of Endometriosis

1. Pelvic Pain: This is the hallmark symptom of endometriosis. The pain can vary in intensity, ranging from mild discomfort to severe pain that interferes with daily activities. It often occurs before and during menstruation but can also be present throughout the menstrual cycle.
2. Painful Menstruation (Dysmenorrhea): Women with endometriosis frequently experience severe menstrual cramps that often don’t get better with over-the-counter pain medications. The pain can radiate to the lower back and thighs.
3. Painful Intercourse (Dyspareunia): Pain during or after sexual intercourse is common in individuals with endometriosis. The pain can be deep and sharp.
4. Chronic Pelvic Pain: Some individuals experience ongoing pelvic pain that is not necessarily tied to their menstrual cycle. This pain can be constant and may worsen over time.
5. Painful Bowel Movements or Urination: Endometriosis can affect the bowel and bladder, leading to pain during bowel movements or urination, particularly during menstruation.
6. Gastrointestinal Symptoms: Some individuals with endometriosis may experience gastrointestinal issues such as bloating, diarrhoea, constipation, nausea, and abdominal cramping.
7. Fatigue: Chronic pain and inflammation associated with endometriosis can contribute to fatigue and low energy levels.
8. Infertility: Endometriosis is a known cause of infertility. The adhesions and scar tissue can affect the functioning of the reproductive organs and interfere with conception.
9. Heavy or Irregular Menstrual Bleeding: Some women with endometriosis experience heavier or irregular menstrual periods.
10. Painful Ovulation: Pain during ovulation, known as mittelschmerz, can be more pronounced in women with endometriosis.

Click to Watch Video

In this video, we look in more detail at the symptoms of Endometriosis.

Some individuals with mild endometriosis may experience significant pain, while others with more extensive disease may have relatively mild symptoms.

It’s important to note that the severity of symptoms doesn’t always correlate with the extent of the disease.

This video is important because it deals with what is closest to you – the woman with abnormal symptoms.

Diagnosis typically involves a combination of clinical evaluation, medical history assessment, physical examination, and often laparoscopic surgery to visualize and confirm the presence of endometrial tissue outside the uterus.

So while watching, check for clues on which symptoms should raise the alarm and prompt a visit to your doctor.

If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms that might be related to endometriosis, it’s recommended to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and management.

Remember, you can discuss any concerns on symptoms of Endometriosis by getting in touch.

More Reading

• Explaining Endometriosis – Who Gets It And Why – Video Special.
• Exploring the Most Effective Treatments for Endometriosis – Video Exclusive
• Nine Features and Signs of Endometriosis EVERY Woman Should Be Aware Of
• Debunking Myths: The Truth About Taking the Morning After Pill During Your Period
• Revealing – 10 Causes of Acute Pelvic Pain In Women

Editing by AskAwayHealth Team

Disclaimer

All AskAwayHealth articles are written by practising  Medical Practitioners. We cover a wide range of healthcare conditions to provide evidence-based guidance and to help promote quality healthcare. 

The advice in our material is not meant to replace the management of your specific condition by a qualified healthcare practitioner. To discuss your condition, please contact a health practitioner or reach us directly

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