When that time of the month comes sneaking up on us, it can be completely normal for women to experience either mild or even slightly intense period pain a well as heavy or light bleeding. However, for some women their periods could be a sign of something more serious.
What is endometriosis?
Endometriosis pronounced end-o-me-tree-oh-sis, but lets just call it ‘endo’, is a condition when cells similar to those that line the uterus, begin to grow in places that they shouldn’t, most commonly a woman’s pelvis or reproductive organs.
These cells outside the uterus grow to form lesions or patches that bleed in response to the hormones at the time of your period. Unfortunately, the causes of endo are unknown and there is no preventative.
How common is endo?
About 1 in 10 women of reproductive age will be affected by endo and not even know it. The biggest issue with this condition is that some women don’t discover they have it until they experience issues with falling pregnant or during an operation.
When to see your doctor.
The symptoms of endo vary from woman to woman, with some experiencing excruciating period pain, to others experiencing none. It would be best to go check in with your doctor if you do suffer from any of the symptoms listed below.
- Pain – If you’re too uncomfortable to complete your day-to-day activities, speak to doctor.
- Bleeding – Heavy, irregular or breakthrough bleeds are all potential symptoms.
- Bladder and bowel – Changes to your usual bladder or bowel movements.
- Other – Bloating, tiredness or moodiness especially around the time of your periods.
Unfortunately, endo takes both a physical and emotional toll on the women who are diagnosed. Endo awareness week is approaching in March and there are hundreds of support services out there for women who do suffer. The best way to start is to speak to your doctor.
The Worldwide EndoMarch is a campaign to raise money & awareness of Endometriosis through events being held across the world on March 28, 2020.
Team Australia is planning High Tea's in major cities and a few regional centers. They're aim is to raise funds for raising endometriosis awareness, increasing endometriosis education and to fund endometriosis research.
Modibodi is working with Qendo to help raise awareness - join us!
