What are the first signs of endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a condition whereby the tissue which normally lines the uterus actually starts to grow in other areas of the body – particularly in the pelvic region, such as the ovaries and fallopian tubes. This tissue continues to react normally to the menstrual cycle each month, and it bleeds in the same way but with no way to escape out of the body.
Whereas the endometrial tissue in the uterus normally builds up, breaks down, bleeds, and is expelled as a period, the tissue growing elsewhere are trapped. This causes inflammation, pain, and the formation of scar tissue.
Endometriosis can affect women across all ethnic backgrounds and at any age, but it most commonly affects women during their reproductive years between the ages of 25 and 35. It is believed that there are an estimated 10 percent of women suffering with the condition in the United States, but many women remain undiagnosed.
The first signs and symptoms of endometriosis aren’t always easy to identify, and they can vary significantly depending on the location and the severity of the condition. Some women can be badly affected, while others do not exhibit any noticeable symptoms. The main, recognized signs and symptoms of endometriosis are:
• Severe, debilitating abdominal cramps
• Pelvic pain, usually worse during a period
• Long periods
• Heavy menstrual flow
• Nausea and/or vomiting
• Pain/cramping during or after sexual intercourse
• Bowel and urinary disorders
• Painful bowel movements or urination during menstruation
• Infertility
• Chronic fatigue
If you are showing signs and symptoms of endometriosis, it is important to discuss this with your doctor. The physician can then review your medical history and conduct a pelvic examination. Imaging testing, such as ultrasound or MRI, may be performed to examine the reproductive organs and to assess for endometriosis. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call Bloomington Women’s Care at 330-202-5662.
Whereas the endometrial tissue in the uterus normally builds up, breaks down, bleeds, and is expelled as a period, the tissue growing elsewhere are trapped. This causes inflammation, pain, and the formation of scar tissue.
Endometriosis can affect women across all ethnic backgrounds and at any age, but it most commonly affects women during their reproductive years between the ages of 25 and 35. It is believed that there are an estimated 10 percent of women suffering with the condition in the United States, but many women remain undiagnosed.
The first signs and symptoms of endometriosis aren’t always easy to identify, and they can vary significantly depending on the location and the severity of the condition. Some women can be badly affected, while others do not exhibit any noticeable symptoms. The main, recognized signs and symptoms of endometriosis are:
• Severe, debilitating abdominal cramps
• Pelvic pain, usually worse during a period
• Long periods
• Heavy menstrual flow
• Nausea and/or vomiting
• Pain/cramping during or after sexual intercourse
• Bowel and urinary disorders
• Painful bowel movements or urination during menstruation
• Infertility
• Chronic fatigue
If you are showing signs and symptoms of endometriosis, it is important to discuss this with your doctor. The physician can then review your medical history and conduct a pelvic examination. Imaging testing, such as ultrasound or MRI, may be performed to examine the reproductive organs and to assess for endometriosis. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call Bloomington Women’s Care at 330-202-5662.
