Philadelphia Women’s Health & Wellness is a trusted women’s health resource for women from in and around Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Our team understands both the common issues that most women face as they move through the phases of life and the more complex gynecologic conditions that can develop.
When it comes to diagnosing and treating endometriosis, we pride ourselves on providing comprehensive, compassionate care. We take the time to listen to your concerns and better understand the journey that’s brought you to our doors.
March is Endometriosis Awareness Month, so let’s take this opportunity to review 5 of the signs and symptoms of endometriosis. Knowing what to look for can help you know when it’s time to take action for yourself or a loved one.
Your uterus is lined with a type of tissue called endometrium. This tissue thickens as you move through your menstrual cycle, creating a soft, safe environment for an embryo to implant. If that doesn’t happen, the endometrium breaks down and sheds, which is what forms the blood you see during your period.
Endometriosis develops when tissue similar to your endometrium grows outside of the uterus. The tissue acts the same as the endometrium within your uterus, but it cannot exit your body when it sheds. This swelling and shedding causes the pain that is the primary symptom of endometriosis.
Here are some of the more common experiences shared by women with endometriosis.
Your period might not be your favorite experience, but it shouldn’t be so uncomfortable that it disrupts your normal routines. If you find yourself in significant pain during your periods, or if your period has become more difficult to manage over time, you should not hesitate to reach out for help.
Women with endometriosis report painful cramping sensations, as well as lower back pain and stomach pain. Some describe the severity as nominally worse than their “normal” periods, while others say they are in so much pain it’s difficult to focus on anything else.
Another change that endometriosis can bring is heavy menstrual bleeding. If you need to change your tampon or pad every hour or so, that’s considered heavy bleeding. Some women report passing blood clots during their periods, but others don’t notice a change in the consistency of their bleeding.
Bleeding that lasts for more than a week or happens in irregular patterns can also be a sign of endometriosis. Of course, changes in your cycle can be a sign of many different OBGYN conditions, which is why it’s important to work with a professional to determine what’s going on.
Sex should be a comfortable, enjoyable experience for both partners. If you’ve noticed discomfort or pain during or shortly after sex, endometriosis might be to blame.
A thriving sex life is an important part of your overall health and wellness. It can also be an essential means of connecting with your partner on an emotional level. Don’t let pain prevent you from enjoying this aspect of your life.
Very often, an inability to get pregnant is the first sign that a woman has endometriosis. This abnormally-situated tissue can develop on your fallopian tubes and ovaries, and can complicate fertility.
If you’re trying to get pregnant and aren’t having the success you’d hoped for, come in for a fertility assessment. There are imaging tests that can reveal signs of endometriosis, and treatments that can help both manage the conditions of endometriosis and help you conceive.
Changes in your digestive health can indicate the presence of endometriosis. Some women have trouble urinating or having bowel movements during or near their period. Others suffer nausea, vomiting, bloating, and stomach cramping.
Endometriosis is often misdiagnosed as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Both conditions are notoriously difficult to diagnose, and some women go for many years before they learn the true cause of their symptoms.
Once your practitioner at Philadelphia Women’s Health & Wellness determines if endometriosis is behind your symptoms, we can begin working together to find the right treatment path. You’ll learn about various options and what to expect with each.
It sometimes takes trying a few different options before you find an approach that works for you. But rest assured you’ll be in good hands as you navigate the process. We are here for you, and standing by to assist. Booking a visit is as easy as a quick phone call or a visit to our online scheduling page.
