What problems does endometriosis cause?

Pain

• Back and pelvic pain as primary symptoms, are reported in approximately ¾ of women diagnosed with endometriosis.
• Pain and swelling before and during the period, as the tissue grows and bleeds with difficulty.
• Painful urination during menstrual period and bladder sensitivity.
• Pain during sex - when the vagina is affected by the disease, it becomes sore.
• Abdominal and bowel pain when endometriosis affects the colon and the rectum

Bleeding

• Irregular bleeding, sometimes at the same time as the menstrual cycle, other times, before the cycle.
• Heavier and longer than normal bleeding.
• Cysts forming from blood trapped in the ovaries.

Other Problems

• Organs binding in the pelvic area.
• Problems in the intestines (diarrhea, constipation, nausea).
• Problems in the bladder.
• Bloating of the abdominal area as a response to the inflammation of bowels.
• Infertility. Endometriosis affects either the ability to get pregnant or the early development of the embryo in approximately 1/3 to ½ of women with this condition.
• Mood swings due to frequent pain – a non-specific symptom of endometriosis.
• Fatigue and lower quality of life are common consequences associated with chronic pain. 

In addition, allergies, yeast infections, and chemical sensitivities may appear.

Risk of Ovarian Cancer

The rates of ovarian cancer and endometriosis-associated adenocarcinoma in women with endometriosis are higher than in women without it, but the risk is still low.

Many times endometriosis is diagnosed in women who are seeking treatment for infertility or other problems. Endometriosis can often be mistaken for “killer cramps”, usual symptoms of a heavier menstruation. The sooner it is discovered, the better it can be treated and avoid unnecessary pain and complication.