Endometriosis
Most people have experienced painful period cramps at some point in their lives. But what happens when those cramps are so painful that you have to miss school, call out of work, cancel plans, or spend the day curled up in bed? For some people, it's not just a “bad period.” It could be endometriosis.
Endometriosis is a chronic condition that affects about 1 in 10 women of reproductive age, where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside of the uterus. This tissue can cause inflammation, pain, and scar tissue. It most commonly affects areas in the pelvis, including the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and tissue around the uterus, but it can sometimes occur in other parts of the body.
Endometriosis is a chronic condition that affects about 1 in 10 women of reproductive age, where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside of the uterus. This tissue can cause inflammation, pain, and scar tissue. It most commonly affects areas in the pelvis, including the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and tissue around the uterus, but it can sometimes occur in other parts of the body.
Common Signs of Endometriosis
Endometriosis can look different from person to person. Some people have severe symptoms, while others may have few or no symptoms at all. Some common symptoms include:
- Very painful periods or cramps that interfere with everyday activities like work or school.
- Chronic pelvic or lower abdominal pain.
- Pain during or after sex.
- Painful bowel movements, especially around the time of your period.
- Painful urination during your period.
- Heavy periods or bleeding between periods.
- Bloating, digestive problems, or nausea.
- Fatigue or feeling unusually tired.
- Difficulty becoming pregnant.
One thing that can make endometriosis difficult to recognize is that the amount of pain doesn't always match the amount of disease. Someone with a small amount of endometriosis can experience severe pain, while someone with more extensive disease may have very few symptoms. It really all depends on the person which is why it is important to seek medical attention.
What Causes Endometriosis to Hurt So Much?
The tissue associated with endometriosis responds to hormones involved in the menstrual cycle. This can lead to inflammation and bleeding in areas outside the uterus which cause the pain and discomfort. Because this tissue is outside the uterus, the body has difficulty getting rid of the blood and inflammation. Over time, this can contribute to irritation, scar tissue, and “adhesions” which can cause organs in the pelvis to stick together.
How Is Endometriosis Diagnosed?
Getting diagnosed can sometimes be a long process partly because as a society we have largely normalized women's pain especially around our cycles. Your doctors may start by asking about your menstrual cycle, pain, symptoms, and medical history. A pelvic exam and imaging, like an ultrasound or MRI, may also be used.
If you think you may have endometriosis, don't be afraid to keep asking questions and advocate for yourself. If you think something is seriously wrong do not let anyone pass it off as just a “painful period.” Tracking your symptoms and your cycle can also help you explain to your healthcare provider what you're experiencing and provide evidence to the patterns and pain you are experiencing.
How Is Endometriosis Treated?
There isn't currently a cure for endometriosis, but there are treatments that can help manage and improve symptoms which include:
- Over-the-counter or prescription pain medication.
- Hormonal medications, including certain forms of birth control.
- Progestin medications.
- Other hormone-based treatments.
- Surgery to remove endometriosis tissue when needed.
- Fertility treatments for people experiencing infertility related to endometriosis.
The best treatment depends on your symptoms, how severe they are, your overall health, and whether you want to become pregnant. While it is easy to compare your pain and experience to other folks who might be experiencing the same thing, it is important to remember that our bodies are different and treatment looks and works differently for everyone.
Endometriosis and Fertility
For some people, endometriosis can make becoming pregnant more difficult. Inflammation and scar tissue can interfere with the reproductive organs, and endometriosis has been associated with infertility. However, having endometriosis does not automatically mean you cannot have children. Some people with endometriosis become pregnant without fertility treatment, while others may need additional support. If you're concerned about your fertility, talk with your healthcare provider about your options.
Endometriosis is more than having a “painful period.” It is a chronic condition that can affect someone's physical health, emotional well-being, relationships, school, work, and fertility. If your period pain is severe, keeps getting worse, or is interfering with your everyday life, don't be afraid to speak up for yourself. Any pain that disrupts your life and everyday routines should be taken seriously.
