No, it's not just painful menstruation, and yes, it can occur at any age.
Endometriosis is statistically estimated to affect 1 in 10 women , yet there is still confusion, lack of information, and many myths surrounding the condition. Let's answer some of the main questions you may have about endometriosis:
To recap… what is endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory disease in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus (called the endometrium ) grows outside the uterine cavity . The misplaced tissue, like the lining in our uterus, responds to regular hormonal fluctuations. It grows and thickens during the menstrual cycle, which triggers an inflammatory response and leads to unpleasant symptoms.
IN At what age can endometriosis appear?
At any age. Endometriosis affects an estimated 1 in 10 women of reproductive age, usually between the ages of 15 and 49. ( 1 ) The first symptoms of endometriosis can appear as early as adolescence with the onset of menstruation and can last until menopause. However, not all women decide to seek professional help immediately, and even the diagnosis itself is sometimes a long journey, with the average diagnosis of endometriosis taking 7 to 10 years. ( 2 )
I have pain during menstruation, does this mean I have endometriosis?
It may or may not. Typical symptoms of endometriosis include painful menstruation (dysmenorrhea), chronic pelvic pain, painful intercourse, painful urination, or digestive and intestinal problems. Symptoms can be so intense that they interfere with daily activities. So pain can be a sure indicator of endometriosis and it is always recommended to address any unpleasant symptoms associated with the cycle.
On the other hand, 10-30% of patients diagnosed with endometriosis do not experience any unpleasant symptoms or problems, so the absence of symptoms does not completely rule out endometriosis. ( 3 )
Does endometriosis only affect the pelvic area?
Common sites of endometriosis include the pelvic area, such as the outer surface of the uterus, bladder, fallopian tubes, and gastrointestinal tract. However, endometrial-like tissue can occur virtually anywhere in the body. Rarely, endometriosis has been found in the lungs, adrenal glands, liver, and brain. ( 4 , 5 )
"On average, it takes 7 to 10 years to diagnose endometriosis."
Can hormonal contraception cure endometriosis?
There is currently no cure for endometriosis . Synthetic hormonal medications suppress the natural course of the menstrual cycle, and therefore the impact of hormonal changes. Therefore, their use can alleviate some endo-symptoms , including pain. However, they cannot reverse the disease process. Once a woman stops taking the medication, symptoms often return.
How can endometriosis affect fertility?
Endometriosis or related scar tissue can interfere with the release of viable eggs or block the fallopian tubes, preventing the egg from reaching the uterus and connecting with sperm. It also increases inflammation, which causes the eggs to age more quickly. 30-50% of women with endometriosis experience fertility problems. ( 6 ) Endometriosis can make it very difficult to conceive, but that doesn’t mean it’s impossible.
Has endometriosis gone away if I no longer experience any symptoms?
As we have already said, endometriosis is a chronic disease and there is currently no cure for it. However, not all patients experience pain and other unpleasant accompanying symptoms.
Lifestyle changes, a suitable diet and supplementing with the necessary nutrients can be a sure help in this regard, how to alleviate the symptoms of endometriosis - sometimes to such a level that you are not even aware of the disease. However, it cannot be said that endometriosis is completely gone, as some symptoms can still return , even if only temporarily, for example during periods of increased stress, when changing diet or lifestyle.
Do you suspect endometriosis?
Has your doctor diagnosed you with endometriosis or do you suspect you have it? Are you confused by conflicting information and need a simple overview and practical steps you can take?
Download the guide that will give you the basics and tips on how to reduce endometriosis pain through diet and lifestyle changes.
