Understand if your pain could be a sign of endometriosis

Endometriosis affects many women of reproductive age, compromising their quality of life and productivity. It occurs when cells from the endometrium (inner layer of the uterus) move out of the uterine cavity, causing inflammation and damage. These tissues can accumulate in organs such as ovaries, bladder and intestine, generating nodules that affect the functioning of the body.

Early diagnosis is a challenge, as symptoms can be confused with common signs of the menstrual cycle. Without treatment, endometriosis can progress to serious forms, such as deep endometriosis, which makes women unable to follow their daily routine. Awareness of symptoms is essential to avoid these complications.

According to gynecologist Patrick Bellelis, a specialist in endometriosis, “the diagnosis is not always made in the best way and right from the start, and can take up to 10 years to be made. Therefore, it is important to promote information and awareness about the disease, giving visibility to the subject, raising awareness among health professionals and guiding more and more women to understand their body's signs and seek medical help when necessary.”

The specialist listed the main warning signs for endometriosis:

1. Severe menstrual cramps
Severe cramps that interfere with routine are one of the main symptoms. More severe pain or pain with different characteristics than usual should be investigated.

2. Difficulty getting pregnant
Many women discover the disease when trying to get pregnant. Infertility can be a sign of endometriosis.

3. Pain during sexual intercourse
Discomfort or deep pain during sexual intercourse is another sign that should not be ignored.

4. Pain and bleeding when urinating or having a bowel movement
During the menstrual period, the presence of pain or bleeding when urinating or having a bowel movement may indicate that endometriosis is affecting areas such as the bladder or intestine.

5. Back pain
Lower back pain that appears during or outside the menstrual period may also be associated with the disease.

Bellelis reinforces the importance of consulting a gynecologist when noticing any unusual changes, during or outside the menstrual period, to investigate the cause and start treatment. “Early detection allows for more effective control of the disease, preventing sequelae and ensuring quality of life”, concludes the specialist.