To better understand endometriosis, it is helpful to imagine how the menstrual cycle works. Each month, the endometrium thickens to prepare for a possible pregnancy. If this does not occur, the tissue is shed and eliminated through menstruation. In endometriosis, tissue growing outside the uterus also responds to hormones, but it doesn’t have an exit route. This causes internal inflammation, persistent pain, and in some cases, microscopic internal bleeding that irritates nearby organs.
The most well-known symptom of endometriosis is severe menstrual pain. It is not the typical discomfort that is relieved by a painkiller, but a pain that can be disabling, forcing you to miss work, school or cancel daily activities. Many women describe this pain as stabbing, deep, or constant, and it usually gets worse over the years.Health
Another very common symptom is chronic pelvic pain, that is, pain in the lower abdomen that is not limited only to the menstrual period. It can appear days before your period, during ovulation, or even be present almost all month. This type of pain is often one of the main reasons women seek medical attention, although the correct diagnosis is not always reached right away.
Endometriosis can also cause pain during or after sex. This symptom, known as dyspareunia, is usually profound and persistent, and can seriously affect the intimate and emotional life of the sufferer. Many women feel uncomfortable talking about this topic, which contributes to the issue being further silenced.
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Digestive problems are another sign that is often overlooked. Abdominal bloating, diarrhea, constipation, nausea, or pain when having a bowel movement may be related to endometriosis, especially when the tissue affects the intestines. In some cases, these symptoms are confused with disorders such as irritable bowel, delaying the correct diagnosis.
Extreme fatigue is another common yet poorly understood symptom. It is not a simple tiredness, but a constant feeling of exhaustion that does not improve with rest. Chronic pain, inflammation, and hormonal changes can contribute to this state, affecting concentration, mood, and daily productivity.Health
One of the most delicate aspects of endometriosis is its relationship with infertility. It is estimated that a significant percentage of women with difficulties conceiving have endometriosis. This may be due to inflammation, adhesions that alter the anatomy of the reproductive organs, or problems in the quality of the eggs. However, it is important to clarify that not all women with endometriosis will be infertile, and many manage to get pregnant with or without treatment.
In addition to the physical symptoms, endometriosis has a strong emotional impact. Living with constant pain, feeling misunderstood, or hearing that “it’s normal to struggle with menstruation” can lead to anxiety, frustration, and even depression. Late diagnosis, which in many cases can take years, aggravates this psychological impact