7 Signs You Might Have Endometriosis: When to Seek Help

Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to that inside the uterus grows where it shouldn’t. It can be within or outside the uterus and can spread to other organs in the abdominal cavity.

Many women with endometriosis don’t know that’s what’s causing their symptoms. But knowing what you’re dealing with is crucial in getting treatment and relieving symptoms.

At Artemis OB/GYN, Dr. Nicola Pemberton is an experienced OB/GYN who offers a range of treatments for endometriosis. If you’re dealing with infertility, abnormal bleeding, or menstrual cycle irregularities, she provides ultrasound evaluations and pelvic exams.

Common endometriosis signs

Signs and symptoms of endometriosis are different for each woman with the disease. While some have severe symptoms with very few lesions, others don’t have any symptoms with severe endometriosis.

It’s essential to understand what’s going on with your body when you have endometriosis. Below are seven of the prevalent symptoms we see with the disease:

1. Gastrointestinal symptoms

GI symptoms like bloating, diarrhea, nausea, and constipation could signal anything — but when they happen around your cycle, it could signal endometriosis.

2. Chronic pelvic pain

Pelvic pain that continues before and after your period could indicate endometriosis. It may even worsen right before and during your period.

3. Heavy vaginal bleeding

Any abnormal vaginal bleeding could signal endometriosis, especially if it’s extremely heavy or you have spotting between periods.

4. Severe cramping with menstruation

Severe cramping or abdominal pain that happens before or during your period is a hallmark sign of endometriosis. This pain can be enough to interfere with work, school, and social activities.

5. Painful bowel movements

Inflammation in or around the bowel from endometrial growth can lead to constipation and painful bowel movements or urination.

6. Infertility

Endometriosis causes adhesions to form throughout the reproductive system. If these adhesions block the fallopian tubes or affect a woman’s egg quality, infertility usually follows.

7. Pain with sex

When endometrial tissue grows on or around the reproductive organs, it may lead to dyspareunia, or painful intercourse.

When do you require treatment?

Not everyone with endometriosis requires medical treatment, but if symptoms begin to interfere with normal activities, it’s time to get help.

Endometriosis varies from mild to severe, and not everyone with severe endometriosis has symptoms. However, if you experience any of the following, it’s essential to contact us for an appointment:

• Chronic pelvic pain that worsens
• Painful periods that interfere with life
• Extremely heavy menstrual bleeding
• Pain with urination or bowel movements
• Discomfort or severe pain with intercourse
• Trouble getting pregnant

Any symptoms that interfere with your life or daily activities are a sign that you should get treatment. The earlier you seek treatment, the sooner you get relief.

An accurate diagnosis is essential for effective treatment and symptom relief. Ultrasounds, MRIs, or laparoscopies accurately help us diagnose endometriosis.

We develop a personalized treatment plan that often includes medications, hormone therapy, and possibly surgery to alleviate symptoms and help you conceive if you’re dealing with infertility.

For more information about our endometriosis treatments, call or message our Union office in New Jersey, or use our online booking feature.