The most well-known symptom of endometriosis is severe menstrual pain. This is not simply discomfort relieved by painkillers, but pain that can be debilitating, forcing women to miss work, school, or cancel daily activities. Many women describe this pain as stabbing, deep, or constant, and it tends to worsen over time.
Another very common symptom is chronic pelvic pain, meaning pain in the lower abdomen that isn’t limited to the menstrual period. It can appear a few days before menstruation, during ovulation, or even be present for almost the entire month. This type of pain is often one of the main reasons women consult a healthcare professional, although the correct diagnosis isn’t always made immediately.
Endometriosis can also cause pain during or after sexual intercourse. This symptom, called dyspareunia, is usually deep and persistent, and can seriously affect the intimate and emotional lives of those affected. Many women feel uncomfortable discussing this topic, which contributes to keeping the problem even more hidden.
Digestive problems are another often overlooked sign. Bloating, diarrhea, constipation, nausea, or pain during bowel movements can be associated with endometriosis, especially when the tissue reaches the intestines. In some cases, these symptoms are mistaken for conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome, thus delaying proper diagnosis.
Extreme fatigue is another common, yet poorly understood, symptom. It’s not simply a feeling of tiredness, but a persistent exhaustion that doesn’t improve with rest. Chronic pain, inflammation, and hormonal changes can contribute to this condition, affecting concentration, mood, and daily productivity.
One of the most sensitive aspects of endometriosis is its relationship with infertility. It is estimated that a significant percentage of women who have difficulty conceiving suffer from endometriosis. This can be due to inflammation, adhesions that alter the anatomy of the reproductive organs, or problems related to egg quality. However, it is important to clarify that not all women with endometriosis will be infertile, and many are able to become pregnant with or without treatment.
Beyond the physical symptoms, endometriosis has a significant emotional impact. Living with constant pain, feeling misunderstood, or hearing that “menstrual pain is normal” can lead to anxiety, frustration, and even depression. Delayed diagnosis, which in many cases can take years, exacerbates this psychological impact.
Regarding the causes of endometriosis, there is still no single, definitive explanation. Several theories have been proposed, such as retrograde menstruation (when part of the menstrual flow flows back towards the pelvis), genetic factors, immune system abnormalities, and hormonal imbalances. It is very likely that it is a combination of several factors.
Diagnosing endometriosis is not always straightforward. It often begins with a thorough medical interview and a gynecological examination. Ultrasounds and MRIs can help identify some lesions, but the definitive diagnosis is usually confirmed by laparoscopy, a minimally invasive surgical procedure that allows direct visualization of the affected areas.
