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8 Signs You Could Be Suffering From Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a condition that affects the lining of the uterus and can cause agonizing pain, discomfort and bleeding. It affects around 10% of women in their reproductive years and can cause long-term health problems if left untreated. In this article, we’ll discuss eight common symptoms of endometriosis to help you become more aware of the condition and any potential warning signs.
1. Painful Periods: The most common symptom of endometriosis is painful periods, particularly cramping during menstruation. This pain usually starts shortly before or at the start of your period and may be more severe than typical menstrual cramps. It may also last longer than usual, in some cases up to several days.
2. Pain During Intercourse: Women with endometriosis may experience pain during or after intercourse, and it may be worse around the time of your period. This pain can range from mild to severe and is often described as a “burning” sensation deep inside.
3. Abnormal Bleeding: Women with endometriosis may also experience abnormal bleeding between periods or prolonged periods that last longer than usual. It’s important to note that these symptoms don’t always indicate endometriosis, but they are worth discussing with your doctor if you experience them on a regular basis.
4. Infertility: Endometriosis can cause infertility in some cases due to the presence of scar tissue or abnormal cysts in the reproductive organs. This can block the sperm from reaching the egg, making it difficult for women with endometriosis to get pregnant.
5. Gastrointestinal Pain: Endometriosis can also cause a range of gastrointestinal symptoms, including abdominal pain and bloating, constipation and diarrhea. These symptoms usually occur around the time of your period and may be worse than usual.
6. Fatigue: Women with endometriosis may experience fatigue that doesn’t seem to go away even with rest or sleep. This is due to inflammation caused by endometrial cells that have spread outside of the uterus, which can affect other parts of your body.
7. Urinary Problems: Endometriosis can cause urinary symptoms such as frequent urination, painful urination, and the urgent need to urinate. This is due to endometrial cells that have spread to the bladder or other parts of your urinary system.
8. Allergy-like Symptoms: In some cases, endometriosis can cause allergy-like symptoms such as itchy skin, hives and rashes. These are caused by hormones released by the endometrial cells which can affect your body’s immune system and trigger an allergic reaction.
If you experience any of these eight symptoms on a regular basis, make sure to discuss them with your doctor who will be able to diagnose and treat endometriosis. Early diagnosis and treatment can help reduce the severity of the symptoms and prevent any long-term health complications. Endometriosis is a common but painful condition that can affect your quality of life, so it’s important to talk to a doctor if you experience any of these eight warning signs. With proper care, most women with endometriosis are able to manage their symptoms and lead a healthy life.