What is Endometriosis?

Endometriosis is a common yet often misunderstood condition in which tissue that is similar to the inner lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus, affecting 190 million women worldwide. Despite its prevalence, many women suffer for years without a proper diagnosis due to misinformation, lack of awareness, and the overlapping symptoms it shares with other conditions. Endometriosis can impact daily life, fertility, and overall well-being, making awareness and early diagnosis critical for effective management.

Why Endometriosis is Overlooked

One of the biggest challenges in managing endometriosis is that it is frequently overlooked or misdiagnosed. Several factors contribute to this issue: 

  • Misconceptions: Many believe that extremely painful periods are normal, leading to dismissed symptoms.
  • Lack of Awareness: Both patients and healthcare providers may not recognize endometriosis in early stages.
  • Overlapping Symptoms: The condition shares symptoms with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), and other gynecological disorders. 
  • Delay in Diagnosis: It can take anywhere for 4-11 years for a woman to receive a proper diagnosis, and as many as 6 out of every 10 cases remain undiagnosed.

Q&A: Understanding Endometriosis 

Q: What Causes Endometriosis?

A: The exact cause of endometriosis is unknown, but several factors may contribute. Retrograde menstruation occurs when menstrual blood containing endometrial cells flows backward into the pelvic cavity. Genetics play a role and family history increases the likelihood of developing the condition. Estrogen promotes endometrial growth outside the uterus and immune system dysfunction may prevent the body from recognizing and eliminating misplaced endometrial tissue.

Q: What Are the Early Signs? 

A: Common symptoms of endometriosis include:

  • Severe back pain before and during menstruation
  • Chronic lower back and abdominal pain
  • Pain during or after sex
  • Heavy or irregular periods
  • Fatigue and nausea
  • Painful bowel movements or urination, especially during menstruation
  • Infertility or difficulty conceiving

Q: How Do I Get Diagnosed?

A: Diagnosis can involve multiple steps with the first being a discussion with your doctor about your symptoms and menstrual history. A pelvic exam may be conducted to check for abnormalities, followed by imaging tests such as an ultrasound or MRI to detect cysts or abnormal growth tissue. Laparoscopy can also be conducted with a specialist. 

Q: Can Endometriosis Be Treated?

A: While there is no cure, several treatment options can help manage symptoms:

  • Medications: Pain relievers, hormonal birth control, and GnRH-modifying medications can help or reduce symptoms. 
  • Surgical Intervention with a Specialist: Laparoscopic excision surgery removes endometrial lesions and provides relief. Laparotomy is used less often for this.
  • Lifestyle and Holistic Approaches:
    • Anti-inflammatory diet (rich in omega-3s, leafy greens, and whole foods)
    • Regular exercise and stress management (yoga, meditation, and acupuncture)
    • Heat therapy (heating pads, warm baths) to relieve pain
    • Pelvic physical therapy for muscle relaxation and pain reduction

When to See a Doctor

If you experience any of the following, it’s time to contact your care provider:

  • Pain that interrupts daily life, work, or relationships
  • Being told you have “just bad periods,” but the pain is debilitating
  • Unexplained infertility or difficulty conceiving
  • Painful sex or persistent gastrointestinal issues 

Ignoring your symptoms can lead to complications such as worsening pain, fertility struggles, and emotional distress.

Advocating for Women’s Health and Raising Awareness

Talking about menstrual health can feel uncomfortable, but the more we open up, the more we break the stigma. If you’ve ever felt alone in your pain, know that you are not alone. Sharing our experiences not only validates what so many women go through but helps others recognize the signs and seek help sooner. 

Supporting research and awareness campaigns – whether by donating to organizations or educating friends and family – can make a difference. Most importantly trust yourself. If a doctor has previously dismissed your pain, contact us for a second opinion. You deserve to be heard, validated, and treated with care. 

Endometriosis is real and deserves more recognition. By spreading awareness, supporting one another, and demanding better medical care, like that which we provide at CT Coastal, we can ensure that more women get the diagnosis and treatment they deserve. Contact us for more information or to schedule an appointment.