It’s a female condition that plagues as many as 1 in 10 between the ages of 15-45 yet it still remains largely misunderstood and underdiagnosed.
With Endometriosis Awareness Month upon us from March 1, it’s vital to raise awareness of the hidden symptoms that often go unnoticed, leading to years of unnecessary suffering. Many of these symptoms confusingly overlap with other conditions, which is why 50% of women with the condition are either misdiagnosed or simply expected to live with it.
Hormone health expert Mike Kocsis from Balance My Hormones exclusively shared the essential signs every woman should be aware of and how better awareness can lead to earlier diagnosis and an improved quality of life.
To make things easier to understand, he first broke down exactly what someone with endometriosis is dealing with.
“Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus. Unlike the tissue inside the uterus, which sheds during menstruation, the tissue outside the uterus has nowhere to go, leading to inflammation, pain, and, in some cases, scarring.”
Scarily, he also added that the condition can impact various organs including the ovaries, fallopian tubes, bladder, and bowel. “Symptoms can range from mild discomfort to severe chronic pain and infertility.”
But as any woman knows, time of the month pains are par for the course and symptoms can vary from person to person, but Mike surges us to all pay attention to the hidden symptoms that are often overlooked as other conditions such as asthma, IBS and simple tiredness.
“While most people associate endometriosis with painful periods, it can cause a variety of other symptoms that are often overlooked or confused with other conditions,” said Mike.
Chronic Fatigue
Women with endometriosis may experience extreme tiredness, not only due to pain but also because of the body’s ongoing inflammation. Even after a full night’s sleep, women can feel drained throughout the day, and this fatigue is often mistakenly attributed to stress or poor sleep.
Breathing Problems and Chest Pain
Some women with endometriosis may experience shortness of breath or chest pain. This occurs when endometrial tissue grows on the diaphragm or lungs, leading to rare conditions like catamenial pneumothorax (collapsed lung) or breathing issues during menstruation. These symptoms can easily be mistaken for asthma or other respiratory conditions.
Chronic Leg Pain or Sciatica
Endometriosis can affect pelvic nerves, leading to pain radiating down the legs or into the lower back. This can resemble sciatica, causing numbness, tingling, or discomfort in the legs, especially during menstruation.
Digestive Issues
Many women with endometriosis suffer from bloating, constipation, diarrhoea, or nausea. These symptoms often mimic irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which can lead to misdiagnosis and delay the correct treatment for endometriosis.
Persistent Lower Back and Pelvic Pain
Unexplained lower back or pelvic pain, especially during menstruation or sex, could be a sign of endometriosis. Pain that persists for several days or recurs regularly may indicate a deeper issue.
Pain During or After Sex
Endometriosis often causes pain during or after intercourse due to inflammation of the pelvic lining. This discomfort can create intimacy struggles and emotional distress, adding another layer to the already challenging experience.
Urinary and Bowel Distress
Women may experience frequent urination, painful urination, or discomfort during bowel movements. These symptoms are often misdiagnosed as urinary tract infections (UTIs) or gastrointestinal issues, which can delay the identification of endometriosis.
Infertility
Endometriosis is one of the leading causes of infertility. It can cause scarring and adhesions in the reproductive organs, making it more difficult to conceive. Around 30-50% of women with endometriosis struggle with fertility.
Mike also revealed that it’s not just the physical side of things that can take its toll – with woman enduring a heavy emotional impact, too.
“Many women experience feelings of isolation, anxiety, and depression due to the difficulty of being diagnosed and the constant pain they endure. Being told that their pain is ‘normal’ or just ‘bad periods’ can be incredibly frustrating, leading to feelings of invalidation and discouragement.”
The emotional burden is compounded by the uncertainty surrounding the condition, especially when it comes to fertility. Mika added that this can “strain relationships and contribute to a sense of social withdrawal.”
He added that the lack of understanding from healthcare professionals, especially general practitioners who are unfamiliar with endometriosis, can leave women feeling unsupported. This lack of empathy worsens the emotional burden of the condition.
Positively, and despite there being no cure, there are ways to better manage the condition.
Early diagnosis and a multi-faceted approach to treatment are key to improving outcomes for women with the condition.
If you experience any of the hidden symptoms of endometriosis, it’s essential to seek care from a healthcare provider who understands the condition. Don’t hesitate to advocate for yourself—request tests like an ultrasound or laparoscopy for an accurate diagnosis.
Over-the-counter pain medications, prescription drugs, and hormone therapies can help control pain. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove excess endometrial tissue.
Connecting with other women who have endometriosis can provide much-needed emotional support. Online or in-person support groups offer opportunities to share experiences and coping strategies, helping reduce feelings of isolation.
Many women find relief through diet and exercise. An anti-inflammatory diet may help reduce pain and inflammation, while regular physical activity can boost energy levels and reduce stress.
Given the emotional toll of endometriosis, seeking therapy or counselling is essential. Mental health professionals can help manage anxiety, depression, and stress, allowing women to cope better with the demands of the condition.
