How can I recognize the symptoms of endometriosis?

Endometriosis… A scary word, but one that is still too little known.

Yet this disease affects approximately 1 in 10 women of childbearing age. Debilitating pain, chronic fatigue, digestive problems… The symptoms are varied and sometimes misleading, which often complicates diagnosis.

So how can you tell if you have endometriosis? What are the warning signs?

Let’s take a closer look at this disease that is still too often ignored.

What exactly is endometriosis?

Before discussing the symptoms, a quick reminder is in order.

Endometriosis is a chronic gynecological condition in which cells similar to those found in the lining of the uterus (the endometrium) grow outside the uterus.

These cells respond to the hormones of the menstrual cycle, causing inflammation, lesions, and sometimes adhesions on various organs.

Imagine that your body is a well-tended garden. But with each menstrual cycle, weeds invade places where they shouldn’t grow.

The result? They interfere with the normal functioning of the whole and cause pain and discomfort.

Warning signs to watch out for

Abnormally painful periods

It is common to experience pain during your period.

But when the pain becomes unbearable, confines you to bed, or prevents you from living normally, it is not normal. Endometriosis often manifests itself as severe dysmenorrhea, which cannot be relieved with simple painkillers.
→ Watch out for: acute pelvic pain, sometimes radiating to the back or legs.

Pain during intercourse (dyspareunia)

If sexual intercourse causes deep, throbbing pain, this is a warning sign.

This pain may be related to lesions located on the vaginal fornix, uterosacral ligaments, or other sensitive areas.
→ Watch for: discomfort or intense pain during or after intercourse.

Unexplained digestive or urinary problems

Bloating, diarrhea, constipation, pain when urinating… Endometriosis is not limited to the gynecological sphere.

When it affects the bladder or intestine, it can mimic irritable bowel syndrome or cause recurrent urinary problems.
→ Watch out for: alternating diarrhea/constipation, pain when urinating, feeling of a constantly full bladder.

Chronic fatigue and general malaise

Endometriosis is a constant inflammation that exhausts the body.

Between the pain, heavy bleeding, and stress associated with the disease, fatigue can become debilitating on a daily basis.
→ Watch out for: intense fatigue even after a good night’s sleep, unexplained energy slumps.

Difficulties conceiving (infertility)

Some women discover they have endometriosis when they try to conceive.

The disease can cause adhesions and blockages in the fallopian tubes, making conception more difficult.
→ Watch for: failure to conceive after several months of trying without contraception.

Why are these symptoms often ignored?

Many women downplay their pain, thinking that “it’s normal to experience pain during menstruation.”

Others are misdiagnosed with conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome, recurrent cystitis, or even psychosomatic stress.

The problem? An average delay in diagnosis of seven years. During this time, endometriosis progresses, increasingly impacting quality of life.

Our opinion on the subject

Let’s be honest: there is still a lot to be done in terms of recognizing this disease.

Fortunately, people are becoming more vocal and research is progressing. But we believe it is crucial to listen to your body above all else and to dare to seek a second opinion if you feel that something is wrong.

Every woman experiences endometriosis differently, which is also what makes it so difficult to diagnose.

However, no one should have to live with chronic pain under the pretext that “it’s normal.”

So, what should you do if you recognize these signs?

If these symptoms sound familiar, talk to a healthcare professional. A specialist gynecologist will be able to refer you for tests (pelvic MRI, ultrasound, laparoscopy) to make a diagnosis.

The most important thing? Don’t ignore the pain. It’s a warning sign, not a death sentence.

Do you know someone who suffers from painful periods? Share this article—it could help them better understand what they are going through.