Understanding Endometriosis Symptoms

You’ve probably heard of endometriosis, but understanding it can be tricky. This condition touches millions of women, yet it’s sometimes a challenge to identify it, spot the signs and understand why an early diagnosis matters.

In this guide, we’ll share what endometriosis is, its risk factors, how to manage endometriosis symptoms, when to seek help and how to prepare for your doctor’s appointment. Whether you’re looking for answers for yourself or someone close to you, we’re here to shed some light on this complicated condition and offer support.

What Is Endometriosis?

The tissue lining the inside of the uterus is known as the endometrium. Endometriosis is a condition where tissue starts growing outside the uterus.

“This misplaced tissue can lead to inflammation, scar formation and adhesions, which are bands of scar tissue that often bind two organs together. They primarily affect the ovaries, fallopian tubes and tissue lining the pelvis,” said Roman Puliaev, MD, an OBGYN at Franciscan Physician Network in Dyer.

Unlike the lining inside the uterus, which sheds during menstruation, tissue growing outside has no way to exit the body. This remaining tissue can cause a range of endometriosis symptoms — some manageable, but others debilitating.

How Common Is Endometriosis, And What Impact Does It Have?

Endometriosis affects approximately 11 percent of American women aged 15 to 44, usually women in their 30s and 40s. This condition can severely affect a woman’s quality of life, causing chronic pain, significant discomfort during menstrual cycles and potential issues related to infertility.

What Are The Causes And Risk Factors For Endometriosis?

The exact cause of endometriosis remains a topic of ongoing research. Several theories exist, including genetic factors and retrograde menstruation (when menstrual blood flows back through the fallopian tubes into the pelvic cavity rather than leaving the body).

Who Is At Risk For Endometriosis?

Those at risk for endometriosis include women who may experience menstrual cycle characteristics, such as shorter cycles or longer periods. It can also affect those who have never given birth. Environmental and lifestyle factors may also play a role.

Is Endometriosis Genetic?

If you learn you have endometriosis, it’s common to wonder why. Did you inherit it from your mom or another close relative?

“The short answer is it might be a bit of both nature and nurture,” Dr. Puliaev said.

Research suggests that if a close family member has endometriosis, your chance of having it can jump significantly — up to seven to ten times higher than someone without a family history. But pinning down a specific “endometriosis gene” is tricky. Researchers think a mix of different genes, alongside environmental factors, the age at which you start your periods, your pregnancy history, and the use of hormonal birth control, all play into your risk.

So, while genetics can play a role in whether you develop endometriosis symptoms, it’s just one piece of a larger puzzle.

What Symptoms Indicate You Might Have Endometriosis?

Endometriosis is a complex condition. Its symptoms can vary and significantly impact the lives of those who have it. Some women might barely notice endometriosis symptoms, while others face painful or debilitating symptoms that linger. Others might experience painful flare-ups and then get relief for a long time.

Pain Is The Most Common Symptom Of Endometriosis

The main symptom of endometriosis is painful periods, but not just any pain.

“It’s the kind of persistent discomfort that over-the-counter medicine can’t treat — pain that interferes with daily activities, work and social life,” Dr. Puliaev said.

Endometrial pain mainly occurs around the menstrual cycle but is not limited to it.

Pain from endometriosis can happen:

• Before, during or just after periods: Pain timed around your period is the most typical. This time is when symptoms often flare up.
• During ovulation or intercourse: For some, these specific times can trigger discomfort. Women usually describe this discomfort as a “deep” pain. This pain is different than any felt at the entrance to the vagina when penetration begins.
• With bowel movements or urination: Though less discussed, this pain can be an equally distressing symptom.

Other Symptoms Of Endometriosis

• Menstrual irregularities: Anything out of the ordinary with your menstrual cycle could be a sign of endometriosis.
• Fertility issues: Difficulties conceiving can lead to the discovery of endometriosis.
• Digestive issues: Diarrhea, constipation, bloating and nausea, especially linked to menstrual periods, can also be symptoms.
• Pelvic pain, back pain and painful urination or bowel movements: These symptoms can get worse around the menstrual cycle.

Why Do Symptoms Of Endometriosis Vary So Much?

“Interestingly, the severity of symptoms does not always correlate with the extent of the endometriosis,” Dr. Puliaev said.

For example, some women with advanced endometriosis may experience mild symptoms. In contrast, those with a milder form of the disease could suffer from severe pain and discomfort.

Can Endometriosis Affect Fertility?

The statistics on endometriosis and having a baby are not exactly clear. A lot depends on the severity of your endometriosis.

For women with a mild case of endometriosis, chances of getting pregnant stay pretty much the same as for anyone else. But, if endometriosis has caused scar tissue around the uterus or other parts of the reproductive system, it might be harder to conceive. Research shows that about 30 to 40 percent of women with endometriosis find it difficult to get pregnant. That number is twice as many as in the general population. Infertility issues can occur when scarring blocks the fallopian tubes or stops the ovaries from releasing eggs properly.

The silver lining?

“If you do get pregnant, endometriosis usually doesn’t affect the pregnancy itself,” Dr. Puliaev said.

In fact, many women see their endometriosis symptoms improve during pregnancy.

How Is Endometriosis Diagnosed?

Diagnosing endometriosis is difficult. On average, it takes seven to 10 years for a woman to receive a confirmed diagnosis. Since symptoms can be similar to other conditions, an accurate diagnosis can take time. There is no noninvasive test available to determine whether endometriosis is present.

To diagnose endometriosis, your OBGYN first may do a physical exam, including a pelvic exam. However, the only way to confirm an endometriosis diagnosis is through a surgical procedure called laparoscopy. This minimally invasive approach allows your OBGYN to examine your pelvic organs directly. Sometimes, your provider will need to remove a small amount of tissue during the procedure for a biopsy. Imaging tests like ultrasounds or MRIs may also suggest the presence of endometriosis, but they cannot confirm it definitively.

Why Is It Important to Diagnose Endometriosis Early?

Seeking help for endometriosis as soon as symptoms become noticeable is more than just a proactive step; it’s a crucial one for your long-term health and well-being.

Early intervention can prevent the progression of the disease, reduce the severity of symptoms and even safeguard fertility for those who wish to have children.

Endometriosis can lead to complications like ovarian cysts, significant scarring and adhesions, which can complicate treatment options if left untreated. However, managing the condition early on can significantly improve your quality of life, allowing you to take control of your symptoms.

How Can You Manage Endometriosis Symptoms?

Living with the symptoms of endometriosis can be challenging. Managing your symptoms involves a combination of self-care and professional medical advice.

Create a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise and stress reduction techniques to help reduce some of your discomfort.

Pain management through over-the-counter medications may provide temporary relief, but if your symptoms continue or worsen, it’s important to seek help.

When Should You See a Doctor For Endometriosis?

Recognizing when to seek help is a crucial step toward feeling better. If you’re experiencing endometriosis symptoms that interfere with your day-to-day life, it’s essential to talk with your healthcare provider. Getting diagnosed early and starting treatment can make a big difference in managing your symptoms and improving your overall well-being.

How Can You Prepare For Your Appointment?

Being well-prepared for your appointment can make the most of your discussion with your provider.

Before your appointment, track your symptoms and their severity and note any triggers you notice. Keeping a detailed record and describing how they impact your life can help your provider design the right treatment plan for you.

Here are eight tips to follow before your appointment:

1. Track your symptoms: Write down which symptoms you’re experiencing, including when they happen and how severe they are.
2. Note how they impact your life: Be specific about how your symptoms affect your daily activities, work and personal life.
3. List your medications: Include any medicines or supplements you’re currently taking, even if they are unrelated to your symptoms.
4. Document your menstrual cycle: Keep track of your menstrual cycle dates and flow intensity.
5. Prepare a list of questions: Write down any questions or concerns to make sure you cover everything during your visit.
6. Track your family history: Mention if any close relatives have been diagnosed with endometriosis or have had similar symptoms.
7. Record any previous treatments: If you’ve had any treatments or surgeries related to endometriosis or pelvic pain, bring records or note them for your provider.
8. Consider overall lifestyle information: Share any lifestyle changes you’ve made to manage your symptoms, such as diet or exercise changes.

By coming to your appointment with this information, you provide your healthcare provider with a complete picture of your situation. Then, you two can talk about your next steps more effectively.

Endometriosis Treatment Options And Self-Care

While there’s no cure for endometriosis, several treatments can help you manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.

Awareness and early diagnosis are key to managing endometriosis effectively. Women can navigate their situation more effectively by understanding the condition, recognizing its symptoms and getting timely medical help all in an effort to reduce pain and improve quality of life.

Our providers offer comprehensive treatment options for endometriosis. Find an exceptional provider and get world-class care right where you live and work.