If you’re experiencing intense period cramps, there is a possibility that you could have endometriosis. This public health disorder affects millions of girls and women globally.
Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the inner lining of the uterus (the endometrium) grows outside the uterus.
“Think of the tissue that lines your uterus and sheds each month during your period. In endometriosis, similar tissue grows outside of the uterus, like on your ovaries or intestines. This tissue still acts like it’s part of your cycle, causing inflammation, pain, and sometimes scar tissue,” said Dr Kavita Kovi, Head of Department, Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Aster Women and Children Hospital, Bengaluru.
The tissue gets trapped inside, which is what makes it uncomfortable.
Endometriosis can have several potential consequences, including pain, especially during menstrual periods, cyst formation, adhesions and fertility challenges.
Is it possible that intense pain during periods could be endometriosis? “It is possible,” said Dr Kavita Kovi.
Excruciatingly painful cramps are a common sign, but other things can cause them too, like fibroids.
“The thing is, you don’t want to ignore intense pain. If your periods are regularly knocking you off your feet, get checked by a doctor to figure out what’s really going on,” advised Dr Kovi.
Obstetrician-Gynecologist Dr Shwetha S Kamath, BirthRight by Rainbow Children’s Hospital, Bengaluru, said that painful periods, known as dysmenorrhoea, is caused by fibroids, ovarian cysts, endometriosis, uterine malformation, adenomyosis, and others.
“In many cases, it may be primary dysmenorrhoea, wherein there is no underlying disease or pathology, but women may still experience significant pain. An ultrasound is essential in any case of painful periods to rule out pathology,” said Dr Shwetha Kamath.
Besides painful periods, other symptoms of endometriosis include heavy menstrual bleeding, pain during intercourse, pain during urination, chronic pelvic pain, bloating, and difficulty in conceiving.
In many cases of unexplained infertility, there may be no symptoms, and ultrasound may appear normal. Laparoscopy is the gold standard for diagnosing endometriosis.
“Endometriosis can manifest in various ways. You may experience pain during or after intercourse, or feel discomfort while using the restroom, especially during your period. Heavy bleeding and spotting between periods are also common,” said Dr Kovi.
She added that some individuals can also experience bloating, nausea, fatigue, and even emotional distress due to the ongoing impact of endometriosis.
Even though 42 million girls and women suffer from endometriosis, this disorder is highly underdiagnosed in India.
Around 60% of women undergo chronic pelvic pain. However, it is often underdiagnosed not only by patients but by doctors as well. However, a simple test like ultrasound could be a useful tool to help diagnose endometriosis.
Rohit Malhotra is a medical expert and health journalist who offers evidence-based advice on fitness, nutrition, and mental well-being. His articles aim to help readers lead healthier lives.
