ENDOMETRIOSIS AWARENESS
Most women during their reproductive years struggle monthly with their period pain. Does menstruation have to be really painful?
Pain accompanying the monthly period is called dysmenorrhea. More than half of the women who menstruates have some sort of pain 1 to 2 days each month, discomfort may be mild (https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/dysmenorrhea-painful-periods). Unfortunately for some women, the pain is so severe making it a hindrance in doing their daily routine.
Painful periods that impact your daily functioning aren’t normal and this could be a sign of Endometriosis, a disease where tissue normally found in the lining of your uterus grows outside (e.g. abdomen).
It is estimated that ten percent of women have endometriosis and it could be as high as 80 percent in women with fertility or chronic pelvic pain says Amanda Ecker, M.D., OHSU OB-GYN and endometriosis expert.
Below are the list of some symptoms for women who have endometriosis:
1.Painful periods (dysmenorrhea). Pelvic pain and cramping that may be felt even before and extend several days into a menstrual period. Pain in the lower back and abdomen is also common.
2. Pain with Intercourse. Pain during or after sex is common with women who have endometriosis.
3.Excessive bleeding. You may experience occasional heavy menstrual periods or bleeding between periods.
4.Infertility. Difficulty Getting Pregnant
5.Severe migraines or lower back pain during your period
6.GI Problems(Nausea, bloating, diarrhea or constipation)
7.Fatigue or low energy
8.Pain with urination or bowel movements during a menstrual period
9.Painful menstrual cramps that may go into the abdomen (stomach) or lower back
Each person’s experience with endometriosis is varied. Women with endometriosis may have some of these symptoms or all of these symptoms. Having severe pain or other symptoms is not necessarily a sign of more severe endometriosis. If you are experiencing the symptoms above, please don’t hesitate to contact your gynecologist
