It’s estimated that 10% of people with wombs suffer from endometriosis – a staggering one in every ten people. Yet, serious discourse surrounding the condition continues to be elusive and considered taboo. Many will be familiar with the frustration of being misdiagnosed with something like IBS or dismissed entirely and told not to be so dramatic.
Others may never have heard of the condition, so deem symptoms such as severe abdominal cramping and heavy bleeding entirely normal. Proper diagnosis takes an average of seven and a half years and as women are often taught that pelvic pain is not abnormal some never receive a diagnosis.
Creating a better understanding of endometriosis and normalising the conversation around it is key to better understanding of causes, symptoms and treatment and to receiving diagnoses. We spoke with Wendy Laidlaw, a Health Coach specialising in educating and empowering people with endometriosis, and asked her the most common questions about the condition.
What Is Endometriosis?
“Endometriosis is a condition that is caused by the growth of endometrial tissue from the inside of the womb migrating and planting itself on the outside of the uterus in the abdominal area, including the intestines and reproductive organs” explains Laidlaw. “The tissue in the abdomen then bleeds and sheds, but has no outlet, so excruciating pain, adhesions, cysts and infertility can occur.”
What’s The Cause Of Endometriosis?
“There is no specific cause of endometriosis, however some risk factors, including starting your period at an early age and a family history of the condition, have been identified. Endometriosis can present itself in a range of ways, with varying frequency and severity based on several factors. As such, it can be difficult to spot at the outset.”
What Are The Symptoms Of Endometriosis?
However, Liadlaw notes that there are common symptoms that sufferers will experience and should be aware of. These include severe pelvic and lower abdominal cramping, pain during ovulation and/or menstruation, heavy prolonged bleeding with clots, and IBS. The condition can also cause pain after sex, breast tenderness, nausea and – in serious cases – problems with fertility.
Why Can It Take So Long To Get A Diagnosis?
Laidlaw tells us “the current system of diagnosis for people with abdominal pain needs to be modernised and updated. Currently there are no reliable diagnostic tests for endometriosis (although some are in development.)” In addition, endometriosis is often confused with other conditions due to the similarity of symptoms, leading to prolonged periods of misdiagnosis.
These conditions include, but are not limited to, irritable bowel syndrome, ovarian cysts, polycystic ovary syndrome and menstrual cramps. However, even more worryingly, Laidlaw notes that “certain doctors may not initially believe or be trained to identify people who are suffering from the condition.”
Why Is There Not More Education Around Endo And Its Symptoms?
The lack of education surrounding the condition has various knock-on effects, particularly on the mental wellbeing of those who are diagnosed with endometriosis. “The current guidance is that you are doomed if you get diagnosed with the condition” says Laidlaw. This can cause feelings of shame and guilt, which can negatively impact an individual’s mental health, career and life. In fact, one in five of those with the condition have been diagnosed with depression, and a third live with anxiety.
Is There A Cure For Endometriosis?
While there is no cure for endometriosis, there are a range of treatment options available to help ease symptoms so the condition does not interfere too much with your daily life. Depending on factors such as your age, severity of symptoms and whether you want to become pregnant in the future, your doctor can advise you on different options ranging from basic pain medication, to hormone treatment or in extreme cases surgery to remove areas of endometriosis tissue. For Laidlaw, identifying the root cause of the condition is key, and can allow those with the condition to take back an element of control.
What Should I Ask My Doctor?
When you visit your doctor, reproductive health specialist or gynaecologist, describe your symptoms in detail and if possible, provide information about any family members who also suffer with or experienced these symptoms. Keep a symptom diary that you can refer to and share with the doctor for clarity. Stress the seriousness of your concerns and if you are not taken seriously, ask to be referred to an endometriosis specialist.
Ultimately, it is vital to listen to your body and recognise symptoms that aren’t normal for you. Seek the help of a medical professional if you experience any of the signs that may indicate endometriosis, and be persistent until you receive a thorough examination and explanation. Your pain is valid, and should never be dismissed.