Endometriosis affects 10% of women. This painful condition occurs when endometrial-like tissue grows outside the uterus, and the effects can be far-reaching. The most common endometriosis symptoms are heavy and painful periods, painful sex, reduced fertility, fatigue, and bloating. This boating is often referred to as endo belly. One study found that 96% of women with endometriosis experience bloating compared to 64% without endometriosis. But what is endo belly? To tackle this topic, we need to know more about it; let’s discuss the symptoms, its causes, treatment options, and more.
What Is Endometriosis-Related Bloating?
Endometriosis-related bloating, also known as endo belly, is a symptom of endometriosis which results in noticeable bloating and distension of the belly. This uncomfortable and sometimes painful bloating and swelling may occur throughout the cycle, but it is typically more severe before or during menstruation.
What Causes Endo Belly?
As the endometrial-like tissue continues to grow outside the uterus, it begins to affect many other organs in the pelvic region. When inside the uterus, this tissue builds up and thickens until it is shed during menstruation. The endometrial-like tissue outside the uterus does the same, except there is no way for the shedding tissue to leave the body. This can result in scar tissue, adhesions between organs, digestive issues, inflammation, and bloating. The digestive problems may also be caused by endometriosis spreading to the bowels, bladder, and abdominal lining.
The Symptoms of Endo Belly
The bloating referred to by the term endo belly occurs when the abdomen fills with gas, which results in a tight or hard-to-the-touch abdomen. Along with bloating, women can experience a range of other symptoms. While they vary from person to person, some common symptoms go with endometriosis-related bloating. These symptoms may occur throughout a woman’s cycle, although due to hormonal changes, the symptoms are likely to be worse before and during the period.
Endo belly symptoms:
- A bloated, swollen, or distended abdomen
- Nausea or vomiting
- Cramps or stomach pain
- Diarrhoea
- Constipation
- Gas pains
- Pressure on the back or abdomen
Other Causes of Abdominal Bloating
Endometriosis isn’t the only reason you may experience abdominal bloating; the condition can mimic other gastrointestinal conditions or food sensitivities.
Gastrointestinal issues and conditions associated with bloating:
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
- Celiac disease
- Food intolerances or allergies
- Overconsumption of sodium
- PMS
- Ovarian cysts
- Gallstones
- Ulcerative colitis
- Crohn’s disease
- Pregnancy
- Eating too quickly
Endo Belly Treatment Options
Women with endometriosis have to work closely with their doctors to find a diagnosis and manage the symptoms. Because endometriosis is a complex condition, however, there is no one-size-fits-all approach. Doctors begin with a conservative approach, such as lifestyle changes, then they may introduce hormone-based treatments, and then surgery if necessary. To combat bloating specifically, it’s best to make dietary adjustments such as increasing fibre intake, drinking more water, opting for healthy fats, and avoiding caffeine, alcohol, sugary drinks, and processed foods.
Whether you have been diagnosed with endometriosis or not, if you experience the symptoms related to endo belly, it’s essential to see your doctor. Your doctor can perform a physical examination, run tests, and rule out other gastrointestinal conditions. Book an appointment at a reputable medical practice for specialised endometriosis treatments, diagnosis, and advice.
