Endometriosis 101: What Does This Scary Word Mean for You?

Endometriosis, affecting millions of individuals across the globe, primarily women of reproductive age, is often described as a debilitating, painful, and complex medical condition. Endometriosis remains underdiagnosed and misunderstood, and has been shown to have delays in treatment as well as significant impacts on a woman’s quality of life. By gaining a better understanding of this condition, individuals can find the appropriate treatment and support to manage their symptoms effectively. 

What is Endometriosis?

Endometriosis (ENDO) is a chronic medical disorder that causes tissue (known as endometrial tissue) similar to the lining of the uterus to grow outside of the uterine cavity, typically around the pelvic region, affecting a female’s reproductive system. This tissue growth can cause inflammation, pain, and the formation of scar tissue. Affecting various parts of the body, this condition can have a profound impact on one’s quality of life. Women who suffer from it could experience the symptoms of heavy menstrual bleeding, infertility, and pelvic pain. Unlike normal endometrial tissue, which naturally sheds during menstruation, this type of growth is trapped with no way of exiting the body.

Symptoms of Endometriosis

The symptoms of ENDO vary on a scale for each woman who has been diagnosed with the medical condition. While not everyone will experience these symptoms, the disease can go undiagnosed for years and only present itself if the symptoms become severe. These symptoms can range from mild discomfort to severe pain, in my case. Common symptoms of ENDO can be and are not limited to:

• Abnormal Periods: Including periods with heavy bleeding (Menorrhagia), and prolonged periods:
• Pelvic Pain: Persistent or cyclical pain in the pelvic region is one of the hallmark symptoms of endometriosis, often intensifying during menstruation.
• Painful Periods (Dysmenorrhea): Menstrual cramps are likely to be more severe than in a woman who has a standard reproductive system, potentially disrupting a woman’s day-to-day activities.
• Pain During Intercourse (Dyspareunia): Many individuals with ENDO experience discomfort or pain during or after sexual activity. It can also cause vaginal drying, meaning the body isn’t self-lubricating like it would if the condition were not present.
• Other Possible ENDO Symptoms: Fatigue, bloating, diarrhea, constipation, nausea or upset stomach, neuropathy, infertility, and even personality changes.

Endometriosis Support

You can find support groups through national and international organizations like the Endometriosis Association, the Endometriosis Foundation of America, 
and via several online social media platforms and support groups. Facebook offers a safe, supportive space to connect with others, share experiences, and find valuable information on the conditions that may otherwise be left unknown. Websites like Endometriosis.org offer valuable information, news, links to support for those with the condition, and helpful resources for loved ones of those who suffer from the condition.