Endometriosis is a chronic and sometimes painful condition that affects women of childbearing age. It occurs when tissue that is similar to the lining of the uterus develops outside the uterus. Effective diagnosis and treatment can improve quality of life by addressing pain that disrupts daily activities. Here’s when to see a doctor if you suspect this condition:
Family History
If your mother or sisters have experienced reproductive health issues, familiarize yourself with the signs and symptoms. Genetics can influence your susceptibility to endometriosis, so having a family history may increase your risk. Mention relatives with the condition when consulting doctors to help them assess your risk factors more accurately.
Digestive Upset
Like reproductive organs, some digestive organs reside near the pelvic region. Endometriosis may disturb bowel functions, provoking constipation, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, or bloating around your menstrual period. Such gastrointestinal upset needs medical attention if it diminishes your quality of life.
Pain
Pelvic pain is a common sign of endometriosis, as throbbing or stabbing menstrual cramps that worsen over time may indicate abnormal tissue growth. Pain occurring mid-cycle or during sex can indicate a problem caused by inflammation. Discomfort during bowel movements or urination may also relate to the condition. Tracking symptoms helps identify patterns requiring medical attention from a healthcare provider.
Bleeding
Noticeable changes in menstrual flow are another possible symptom of endometriosis. Heavier periods may demonstrate the impact of displaced endometrial tissue, along with spotting or bleeding between periods. Such deviations from your norm can denote the hormone issues that accompany this condition, prompting a medical evaluation.
Fatigue
You may experience exhaustion and low energy levels with endometriosis. This fatigue typically aligns with the menstrual cycle. If you feel tired, have trouble concentrating, or can hardly make it through normal activities before and during menstruation, convey these experiences to your physician. A healthcare professional can perform a pelvic exam and laparoscopy to determine whether your fatigue is related to this condition.
Impact on Life
Monitor how your suspected endometriosis affects daily capacities like work, relationships, exercise tolerance, sleep, or enjoyment of life. Restrictions in normal function or activities because of pelvic pain or other symptoms require medical assessment. Sharing your observations with a healthcare provider allows you to develop a personalized plan that addresses both your physical health and overall quality of life.
Reproductive Difficulties
Infertility or challenges getting pregnant may indicate underlying reproductive health issues, such as endometriosis. The presence of endometrial-like tissue on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and pelvic lining creates an environment that can interfere with the normal reproductive process. Endometriosis may also lead to hormonal changes that affect ovulation and the reproductive cycle. If you have a history of miscarriages, delayed conception, and painful menstrual cycles, contact a gynecologist for testing.
Test for Endometriosis
When meeting with a gynecologist, describe your experiences, including symptom timelines. You can determine the appropriate next steps, whether they involve further testing, ultrasounds, medication trials, or laparoscopic surgery. Receiving an accurate diagnosis helps you gain access to effective treatment options. Contact a female reproductive health doctor today to assess your reproductive health.
