Endometriosis affects 10%. This condition is the result of tissue similar to the tissue which lines the uterus, growing outside of it. Many women who suffer from endometriosis experience a range of symptoms which can be debilitating. These symptoms vary based on the type, severity, and location of the endometrial tissue. Endometriosis primarily affects the pelvic region and organs such as the ovaries, uterus, fallopian tubes, and the tissue which lines the pelvis. However, endometriosis can also spread to other organs, such as the bladder, intestines, and rectum. Let’s discuss the common endometriosis symptoms.
Common Symptoms of Endometriosis
It’s important to recognise the symptoms of endometriosis so that you know if you need to seek medical assistance. There are a wide range of symptoms, some of which are less obvious but equally common.
1.Painful or Irregular Periods
One of the most common symptoms of endometriosis is painful or irregular periods. While women typically experience pain during menstruation, the pain associated with periods is more severe or potentially debilitating and doesn’t respond to pain medication. This pain may begin a few days before and continue for a few days after menstruation ends. Irregular periods or very heavy periods are also common in women with endometriosis. It is not normal to have pelvic pain so severe that you need to use serious painkillers, hot water bottles and you have to curl up in a ball on the floor or your bed.
2.Bloating or Endo Belly
Colloquially known as endo belly, bloating during menstruation is common for women with endometriosis, although it may occur throughout the cycle. One study found that 96% of women with endometriosis experience bloating compared to 64% without endometriosis. The abdomen will be visibly larger, uncomfortable, and sometimes painful in such instances.
3.Abdominal Pain
Abdominal pain is widespread in women with endometriosis. This pain is typically described as sharp and intense, or cramps which occur throughout the cycle. The pain is usually felt in the pelvis, abdomen, and lower back. Sometimes, the pain is more pronounced during sex and bowel movements. Any pain which interferes with your day-to-day activities is cause for concern.
4.Gastrointestinal Issues
Along with bloating, various other gastrointestinal issues may accompany endometriosis. Nausea, cramps, vomiting, diarrhoea, and constipation may occur not only during menstruation but throughout the cycle. Cyclical rectal bleeding can also be a symptom. Persistent gastrointestinal issues may also be a symptom of other conditions such as IBS, IBD, celiac disease, food intolerances, Crohn’s disease, ovarian cysts or more. If you experience persistent gastrointestinal issues accompanied by pain, you may need to see a gynaecologist or specialist endometriosis doctor.
5.Reduced Fertility or Infertility
A common symptom of endometriosis is infertility or reduced fertility because the endometrial-like tissue may obstruct the fallopian tubes and/or interfere with the functioning of the uterus and ovaries. As a result, women may struggle to conceive or experience miscarriages. If you’ve experienced multiple miscarriages or been trying to conceive for over a year, you may have endometriosis.
From the onset of symptoms, it takes Australian women up to seven years to get an endometriosis diagnosis, which is why it’s critical to be familiar with the symptoms. Endometriosis can be debilitating and negatively impact your quality of life, so getting a diagnosis and treating the condition is vital. With treatment, you can minimise the effects of endometriosis and potentially halt its growth. If you are struggling with the symptoms of endometriosis, make an appointment with a specialist endometriosis doctor at Sydney Endometriosis today.
