The Main Symptoms of Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a condition that exclusively affects women’s bodies. It is a disorder of the lining of the uterus. Also known as the endometrium, this tissue grows out of place and often causes serious pain.
Recognise the symptoms of endometriosis
The main symptom caused by endometriosis is a strong pelvic pain that is similar to those experienced during menstruation. When you have endometriosis, however, the pain is much more intense and worsens over time. The painful cramps can make life difficult, and certain tasks impossible when the inflammation occurs.
Many women experience the other symptoms associated with this condition. In order to be aware of and recognise whether you’re experiencing endometriosis, it’s very important that you know the signs:
- Painful menstruation: Bear in mind that this is an acutely strong pelvic pain, often accompanied by abdominal and lumbar pain. This cramping may also last longer than usual.
- Intense pain during sex: Women who suffer from endometriosis typically experience intense pains during or after intercourse.
- An intense pain whilst going to the bathroom: This a less common symptom, but those who do have the misfortune of dealing with it state that they experience intense pain when nature calls.
- Heavy bleeding: Most women who have endometriosis bleed very heavily during menstruation.
- Infertility: When a woman has endometriosis, it is not possible for her to fall pregnant.
Other symptoms worth mentioning are fatigue, diarrhoea, constipation and nausea. These symptoms may be especially noticeable during menstruation.
How is endometriosis diagnosed?
The symptoms outlined above are not always present – and it is usual for them to occur simultaneously. The pain experienced by some women when they have endometriosis maybe not a completely reliable indicator of the severity of the condition. In fact, some women with mild endometriosis may suffer from a more sever, acute and debilitating pain than other women, who’s condition is more serious.
If you suspect that you have any of these symptoms, it’s advised that you immediately consult your GP. Relevant tests will be run in order to discover whether you are suffering from endometriosis or another, potentially more serious condition. Whatever the diagnosis, early diagnosis and treatment can prevent further complications.
Lastly, don’t forget to follow your GP’s recommendations to the letter. This is the best way to overcome any health problem, no matter how complicated, confusing or difficult it may appear. Remember: never self-medicate or take medical advice from a friend or neighbour just because something worked for them.
