Endometriosis is a long-term, chronic condition where tissue similar to the lining of the womb grows in other places in the body. It it seen frequently around the uterus, fallopian tubes and reproductive organs but has been found outside of the pelvis (although this is more infrequent).
Symptoms of Endometriosis include:
- Abdominal and lower back pain - Usually worse during your period
- Period pain that stops you doing your normal activities
- Pain during or after sex
- Nausea, sickness and diarrhoea during your period
- Difficulty getting pregnant
- Bloating
- Fatigue
- Anxiety and depression
There is currently no cure for endometriosis, but treatments to manage symptoms include:
- Painkillers
- Hormonal medicines and contraceptives
- Laparoscopic excision surgery to remove endometriosis tissue
Getting a diagnosis for endometriosis takes 8 years on average in the UK. The main reason for this is there not being enough awareness of the condition even though it's the UK's 2nd most common gynaecological condition!
Having painful periods that are affecting your day-to-day activities is not normal! See your GP if you're experiencing any of these symptoms.
Taking a list of your symptoms with you to your appointment might be a good idea. It makes it easy to remember important details, and tracking your symptoms over time can help your doctor to see how your symptoms are really affecting you!
Download my free symptom tracking page below to help monitor your symptoms and take it with you to your GP appointment!
Endo can be a difficult and isolating condition to live with, read about mine and other's Endometriosis journeys using the button below.
