Common Symptoms (Often Overlooked or Misdiagnosed)
Symptoms vary in severity; some women have few despite extensive disease.
| Symptom | Description | Why It’s Often Ignored |
|---|---|---|
| Severe Period Pain | Intense cramps beyond usual | “Normal” heavy periods |
| Chronic Pelvic Pain | Ongoing lower abdomen/back pain | Stress or muscle strain |
| Pain During/After Sex | Deep discomfort | Assumed unrelated |
| Heavy/Irregular Bleeding | Excessive flow or spotting | Hormonal fluctuations |
| Infertility | Difficulty conceiving | Age or other factors |
| Digestive Issues | Bloating, diarrhea/constipation (worse during periods) | IBS/diet |
| Fatigue | Persistent tiredness | Busy life/age |
Other: Painful bowel movements/urination, nausea.
Causes and Risk Factors
Exact cause unknown, but theories include:
- Retrograde menstruation (backward flow).
- Immune system issues.
- Genetics (higher if family history).
- Hormonal/embryonic cell transformation.
Risks: Early periods, short cycles, never pregnant.
Diagnosis and Management
No cure, but treatments manage symptoms effectively.
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