Signs You May Have Endometriosis

If you suffer from severe cramps and unbearable discomfort during periods- you might wonder if you are experiencing one of the most common signs of endometriosis. Let’s help you figure out a few signs of endometriosis so that you can make an informed decision.

Painful, heavy periods disrupt every woman’s life, but when should these symptoms become a cause for concern? While it isn’t unusual to feel uncomfortable with cramps and abdominal pain during the monthly cycle, some of these can also be symptoms of endometriosis, a severely painful medical condition that affects several women of reproductive age. Unfortunately, is much more common than people realise. That is mainly because it’s greatly underdiagnosed!

For women who struggle with it, endometriosis interferes with their day-to-day activities. The debilitating pain and discomfort also take a mental and physical toll on them. That is why learning the first signs of endometriosis is important so that you can take full control of your reproductive health and know when to consult a doctor.

What is endometriosis?

Endometriosis is a reproductive disorder that occurs when tissue that normally grows inside your uterus begins growing in other areas of the body.

When endometrial tissue grows in other places, such as the ovaries or fallopian tubes, the extra blood and tissue continue to thicken and break down each month as it normally would if it were in the uterus. Without the ability to shed, the misplaced endometrial tissue gets trapped inside the pelvic cavity, where it often causes painful inflammation and irritation.

Here are the main signs of endometriosis:

• Abnormal menstruation
  The most common symptom of endometriosis is troublesome periods. If you have periods with severe cramps, and heavy bleeding with many clots, then it could be a sign of endometriosis. Heavy bleeding or spotting during periods is also common in endometriosis.

• Pain during or after sex
  With endometriosis, several women find intercourse painful. If you experience debilitating pain during or after sex or pain that lasts for over 24 hours, you must discuss this issue with your doctor.
  
• Gastrointestinal pain
  Endometriosis can cause constipation, bloating diarrhoea, abdominal pain, and pain with bowel movements. In fact, many women diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome actually have endometriosis because the two have many symptoms in common.

• Fertility problems
  In some cases, the first of endometriosis is difficulty getting pregnant. Although endometriosis can cause fertility issues, with treatment, most people can give birth.
  
  
  Endometriosis is a common reproductive condition that can cause painful periods and infertility. Consult with your doctor if you experience symptoms of the condition.