Millions of women suffer from endometriosis, a chronic condition that happens when the tissue that lines the uterus (the endometrium) grows in other areas, like your ovaries, bowel, or even your chest cavity. These growths are called endometrial implants.
Endometrial tissue responds to changes in estrogen levels that happen during your menstrual cycle. Thickening during the early weeks of your cycle, the endometrium inside your uterus is shed during your period if pregnancy doesn’t occur.
Even though implants are located outside your uterus, they still respond to changes in estrogen. During your period they become swollen and inflamed, and because they can’t be shed like your uterine lining, they wind up causing significant symptoms.
Located in Newburgh, Indiana, Paul Morrison, MD, and Ciara Hammer, FNP-C, use advanced techniques to diagnose endometriosis, providing patient-centered treatment based on each woman’s symptoms and needs. Here, learn five early signs that could mean you need to be evaluated.
A change in your periods is often one of the earliest signs of endometriosis. Women with the condition may experience periods that are heavier than normal, or they may have bleeding or spotting between periods. Some women with endometriosis pass large blood clots during their periods.
Endometriosis can also cause severe cramping during your periods or even during ovulation. These cramps happen when the implants swell during your cycle, resulting in painful inflammation.
Painful sex (a condition called dyspareunia) is another relatively common sign of endometriosis. Pain can occur during or after sex, and the intensity can vary depending on the sexual position that’s used and the location and size of the implants.
It’s important to note, though, that other issues can also cause painful sex, including some sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and even emotional stress. Painful sex is never normal, and Dr. Morrison can determine if your symptoms are due to endometriosis or another cause.
In addition to more severe menstrual pain, endometriosis can cause pain or aching in your lower back and pelvic region as well. Discomfort typically intensifies during your period, but it can happen at other times too.
Pain often begins before your period and persists once your period is done, with larger or more numerous implants causing more intense symptoms. Pelvic and lower back pain can make it difficult to perform daily activities, taking a significant toll on your quality of life.
Women with endometriosis may experience symptoms that affect their digestive system too. Bloating, nausea, and changes in bowel habits, like diarrhea and constipation, are all common, particularly during periods.
These symptoms may be mistaken for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or food sensitivities, which is why it’s very important to keep track of all your symptoms in order for Dr. Morrison to make an accurate diagnosis.
Endometriosis is a leading cause of pregnancy-related problems, specifically difficulty getting pregnant. Inflammation associated with endometriosis can affect your hormones and make it harder for conception to occur.
Sometimes, implants form inside the fallopian tubes, preventing eggs from descending and prohibiting fertilization. If you’ve been trying unsuccessfully to become pregnant, Dr. Morrison can determine if endometriosis could be the cause.
Endometriosis can be treated, but the first step is having it diagnosed. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, call 812-490-5200 or book an appointment online with the practice of Paul W. Morrison, M.D., today.
