Period pain is common, but pain that disrupts your daily life should not be brushed off as normal. Endometriosis may be the reason. The World Health Organization says it affects roughly 10% of reproductive-age women worldwide, around 190 million.
What is endometriosis?
Endometriosis happens when cells similar to the lining of the womb grow in other parts of the body. This tissue responds to each cycle and can cause pain and inflammation.
Main signs
- severe period pain that gets in the way of daily activities
- heavy periods
- pelvic pain that continues outside your period
- pain during or after sex
- pain when using the bowel or bladder
- bloating, nausea and extreme tiredness
- difficulty getting pregnant
Anxiety and low mood are also common.
Why is diagnosis often delayed?
Symptoms overlap with other conditions such as adenomyosis, fibroids or irritable bowel syndrome. According to WHO, the average wait for a diagnosis can be 4 to 12 years.