If you or someone you know has endometriosis, you know the struggle is real and painful. Many women don’t know the signs of endometriosis and go through many misdiagnoses before getting the treatment they need.
Dr. Inga Zilberstein is an experienced and esteemed OB/GYN who treats endometriosis and other women’s health issues at her practice on the Upper East Side of Manhattan in New York City. Because March is Endometriosis Awareness Month, she’s using this month’s blog to educate you about signs of this condition to watch for.
Endometriosis is a painful problem that affects women during their childbearing years. It occurs when tissue that’s similar to the tissues inside of the uterus grows elsewhere in the pelvic cavity.
The endometrial-like tissue can grow just about anywhere, but it’s common on the ovaries, outside of the uterine wall, and on the fallopian tubes. The result of the foreign endometrial tissue is painful menstrual symptoms — the tissue that’s outside of the uterus tries to shed just like it does in the uterus during your period, which causes pain and scarring.
Researchers don’t know what causes endometriosis, but it affects one in 10 women during their reproductive years. Along with pelvic pain and discomfort, the condition can lead to infertility and other health issues.
The symptoms of endometriosis vary from woman to woman, but the condition usually causes some form of discomfort. If you’re experiencing menstrual issues, it’s essential to know the prevalent symptoms of endometriosis.
If you notice any of the following, don’t ignore the signs. Seek evaluation and treatment as soon as possible.
Pelvic pain before, during, and after your period is a prevalent symptom of endometriosis. You shouldn’t ignore any pelvic pain, as it could affect your reproductive system.
Adhesions, scar tissue, and inflammation from endometriosis cause pain during and sometimes after intercourse.
Heavy vaginal bleeding can be a sign of a variety of gynecological problems, including endometriosis. Some women also experience bleeding in between periods that’s severe.
Many women with endometriosis have severe menstrual cramping that doesn’t subside with medications or home remedies. It makes their period feel much worse than it already is.
The inflammation caused by the foreign endometrial tissue often causes infertility in women. Up to 50% of women with infertility have endometriosis, which is an astounding number. With treatment — and the sooner, the better — many women with endometriosis can get pregnant.
Endometriosis affects every woman differently, although most exhibit at least one or two of the above symptoms. But other signs of endometriosis aren’t as noticeable or could be mistaken for other conditions.
Persistent fatigue is one of the misunderstood symptoms of endometriosis. If you feel like you can’t seem to get enough sleep and feel tired all of the time, endometriosis could be the culprit.
Other women experience digestive issues like diarrhea and constipation, along with significant bloating and distension in the abdomen. Some women may experience pain in other areas, including the chest.
Don’t wait to seek treatment for uncomfortable menstrual symptoms. Schedule an appointment with Inga Zilberstein, MD, to learn more about endometriosis and its treatment. You can call or text 830-254-5941, or send a message through this website.
