The condition affects about 10% of women of childbearing age and can cause complications.
Most women have dealt with heavy menstrual periods from time to time, sometimes very severe menstrual cramps, and painful sexual intercourse. But for 10% of women of childbearing age, these symptoms signal something more serious: endometriosis.
In this condition, tissue from the endometrium – the inner lining of the uterus – migrates outward and adheres to nearby body parts, such as the fallopian tubes, bladder, or intestines. Every month. During the menstrual cycle, the endometrial tissue becomes inflamed and swollen. In addition to harming fertility, the condition can significantly impair quality of life.
Endometriosis is often confused with other conditions that can cause pelvic pain, such as irritable bowel syndrome, pelvic inflammatory disease, or even premenstrual syndrome (premenstrual tension). And while many women with endometriosis experience severe and debilitating symptoms, some experience none at all. If you experience the following signs, make an appointment with a specialist.
1-Painful menstruation
Cramps that do not go away after taking common painkillers are one of the characteristic signs of endometriosis. Abdominal pain may start a few days before your period and last beyond the first few days of your period. The pain can be so debilitating that it puts women off from daily activities.
2-Excessive bleeding
With endometriosis, incessant pain isn’t the only thing your period brings. Excessive bleeding is another common symptom. You may need to change your tampon or pad every hour or two during your period, and you may see blood clots.
3-Long menstruation
Your menstrual cycle should last no longer than six days, but with endometriosis, menstrual periods can last more than a week.
4-Painful sex
When endometrial tissue travels outside the uterus, it can attach to different organs and “freeze” in that place. Lack of flexibility can make sex very painful. In more serious cases, the discomfort can last for the entire relationship.
5-Pain when going to the bathroom
Endometrial tissue can stick to the intestines, making something as simple as going to the bathroom a withdrawal-inducing experience. Symptoms of intestinal endometriosis can vary from patient to patient and may include constipation, diarrhea, intestinal cramps, nausea, rectal pain, and rectal bleeding.
6-Nausea and tiredness
Imagine your worst PMS attack ever: Chances are you’ve had a few days where you felt exceptionally tired, a little sore, and maybe even a little sick. Now, zoom in on that several times and you’ll have a better idea of what it’s like to deal with endometriosis symptoms during your period.
7-Infertility
According to the Endometriosis Foundation of America, approximately 30-40% of women with endometriosis have fertility problems. In fact, many women don’t even realize they have endometriosis until they seek fertility treatment.
Source: Health
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
