Endometriosis Warning Signs, And Other Important Questions Answered

March is Endometriosis Awareness Month, aka March into Yellow, a time to shine a light on this often-misunderstood condition affecting 1 in 9 Australian women.

High Street Medical Clinic is raising awareness by answering important questions about endometriosis, its symptoms, and what to do if you suspect you have it.

You can find more out about March into Yellow here.

Endometriosis Explained

Endometriosis occurs when tissue, similar to the lining of the uterus grows, outside of it. This can lead to inflammation, pain, and complications with fertility.

It’s a long-term condition that varies widely from woman to woman—some experience mild symptoms, while others deal with severe pain that impacts daily life.

Endometriosis Warning Signs

Recognising the early signs of endometriosis can help you seek medical advice sooner. Some common symptoms include:

• Severe period pain that affects daily activities
• Pelvic pain outside of your period
• Pain during or after sex
• Heavy or irregular periods
• Bloating (sometimes called ‘endo belly’)
• Fatigue
• Difficulty falling pregnant
• Painful bowel movements or urination, especially during menstruation

If these symptoms sound familiar, it’s worth speaking to one of our independent doctors at HSMC to explore your options. Note that we have female doctors who specialise in women’s health.

Endometriosis: Important Questions Answered

What Causes Endometriosis?

The exact cause isn’t known, but factors like genetics, immune system response, and hormonal influences may contribute. Research is ongoing to better understand this complex condition.

Speaking of more research, the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care is addressing endometriosis at a national level via their National Action Plan for Endometriosis.

What Causes Endometriosis to Flare Up?

Flare-ups can be triggered by hormonal changes, stress, diet, and inflammation. Some people find that certain foods, high stress levels, or inadequate rest make symptoms worse.

Can Endometriosis Cause Weight Gain?

Endometriosis itself doesn’t directly cause weight gain, but bloating, inflammation, and hormonal changes can make people feel heavier or experience weight fluctuations.

Can Endometriosis Go Away?

There’s no known cure, but treatments like medication, hormonal therapy, and surgery can help manage symptoms. Some find that symptoms lessen after menopause.

Can Endometriosis Kill You?

Endometriosis is not fatal, but its complications—like chronic pain, infertility, and mental health impacts—sadly, can significantly affect quality of life. Early diagnosis and treatment can help manage these challenges.

Can Endometriosis Cause Cancer?

Endometriosis doesn’t directly cause cancer, but research suggests an increased risk of certain ovarian cancers in people with endometriosis. The study found that women with endometriosis have about 4 times greater risk of developing ovarian cancer compared to women without endometriosis.

This study was by The American Cancer Society, and you can read it in full here.

Regular health check-ups are important for monitoring any changes.

Can Endometriosis Be Seen on an Ultrasound?

Sometimes. While an ultrasound can detect cysts associated with endometriosis (endometriomas), it often cannot see smaller lesions. Laparoscopy, a minor surgical procedure, is the most accurate way to diagnose endometriosis.

What Does Endometriosis Feel Like?

Pain is a common symptom, but it varies widely. Some describe it as sharp, stabbing cramps, while others experience a deep, aching discomfort. Many also report fatigue and tiredness, digestive problems or stomach pain, and bloating alongside pelvic pain.

Things You Can Do to Minimise Endometriosis Symptoms, and Reduce Your Risk

There is no guaranteed way to prevent endometriosis, but some strategies may help manage symptoms and lower the likelihood of severe progression.

Ways to Minimise Endometriosis Symptoms:

1. Maintain a balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods
   • Hint: Some anti-inflammatory foods

• • Leafy greens
  • Fatty fish
  • Turmeric
  • Berries
  • Nuts and seeds

1. Manage stress through relaxation techniques that are both healthy AND you enjoy
2. Regular physical activity to support overall health
3. Hormonal treatments, as advised by a doctor, to help regulate symptoms
4. Keeping track of flare-ups to identify personal triggers. We recommend keeping track in your phone as you’ve always got it with you.
   • 📲 If you’re interested, QENDO is an app designed for just this, it’s available on iOS and Android too.

Ways to Reduce the Risk of Endometriosis:

While there is no proven way to completely prevent endometriosis, some studies suggest that the following may help:

• Long-term use of hormonal contraceptives
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding may delay progression, though this is not a practical prevention method for everyone
• Reducing exposure to environmental toxins that may affect hormones

Note that talking to your doctor about your specific circumstances is always the best way.

Since endometriosis is not fully understood, there is no definitive way to prevent it, but early diagnosis and treatment can make a significant difference.