Many people born with a uterus have Endometriosis and don’t even know it. They may be cis-gender, transgender, non-binary, or others. And there have been rare instances of men developing Endometriosis, too. I sure didn’t know what it was until I received my diagnosis. I’d never even heard of it. Endo-what?
So what are the red flags of Endometriosis? If I only knew about this list prior to my diagnosis, I would have gone to my doctor years ago! I met every single one of these symptoms!! Every. Single. One.
You may have Endometriosis if you have any of the following issues:
- Painful periods (some classify their pain as severe or crippling)
- Chronic pelvic pain (even when not during period)
- Pain during ovulation
- Heavy periods
- Lengthy periods
- Irregular bleeding or spotting
- Bloating, especially around your period
- Experience pain during or after sex
- Painful bowel movements
- Pain when urinating
- A personal history of urinary tract infections
- Diarrhea or constipation, especially around your period
- Infertility
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Lower back pain
- Sciatica pain
Think you, or someone you know, may have Endometriosis? Now what?
To date, there isn’t a non-invasive way to officially diagnosis Endometriosis; the doctors must surgically open you up and see it…BUT there are questions, pelvic exams, imaging studies, etc. that may help your doctor determine if you may have it.
And most importantly : you are NOT alone. This condition effects 176 million worldwide. And we are all in this together. Embrace your community of EndoWarriors. We are all strong. And still beautiful.
Resources:
Centre for Advanced Reproductive Endosurgery
Endometriosis Foundation of America
~ Again, I am a layman. I do not hold any college degrees, nor mastery of knowledge. Please take what I say with a grain of salt. If curious, do your own research 😉 Validate my writings. Or challenge them. And ALWAYS feel free to consult with your physician. Always. Yours ~ Lisa
Bloomin' Uterus 
I have almost all of those symptoms. The more i look into endometriosis the more i think i have it. I had laproscopic to remove a dermoid cyst in my right ovary. My surgeon showed me a pic of my ovaries and they were all the same pink color. But as i understand it could be in a number places and he didnt look for endo so i might still have it… Not sure
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Can you get a referral to an Endometriosis specialist in your area? You’re right: it may be hiding elsewhere. I also had Endo on my liver and diaphragm. If your surgeon wasn’t looking, they may have missed it.
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Im not sure would they be the same as and endocrinologist? Im just started to learn about pcos. But i couldnt figure out why i have periods everyday for months at a time. And i cramp bad all the time even if i dont have my period. My obgyn said she doesnt know whats causing it but its fine some women are like that. And just prescribed aygestin which is a med mainly for endometriosis. I found two endocrinologist to try. One office never returns my call to make an appt and the other one the office is either closed or i end up on holf forever so i have yet to see any specialist.
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Keep trying 😀
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I shall lol 🙂
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Reblogged this on Endo Struggle.
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