March is Endometriosis Awareness Month, and we think it’s important to bring attention to a disease that, if left undiagnosed and untreated, can slowly and progressively wreak havoc on a woman’s reproductive system, overall health and quality of life.

Endometriosis affects more than 11 percent of American women between the ages of 15 and 44. It is especially common among women in their 30s and 40s and may make it harder to get pregnant. Unfortunately, endometriosis often goes undetected for years because the pelvic pain associated with the condition is mistaken for severe menstrual cramps or there may be no symptoms other than an inability to conceive.

About Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a condition in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus. Most often, endometriosis is found on the:

  • Ovaries
  • Fallopian tubes
  • Tissues that hold the uterus in place
  • Outer surface of the uterus

Other sites for growths can include the vagina, cervix, vulva, bowel, bladder or rectum.

You might be more likely to get endometriosis if you have:

  • Never had children
  • Menstrual periods that last more than seven days
  • Short menstrual cycles (27 days or fewer)
  • A family member (mother, aunt, sister) with endometriosis
  • A health problem that blocks the normal flow of menstrual blood from your body during your period

Symptoms of Endometriosis

Many women experience no symptoms. If they do, symptoms of endometriosis can include:

  • Pain. This is the most common symptom. Women with endometriosis may have many different kinds of pain. These include:
    • Very painful menstrual cramps. The pain may get worse over time.
    • Chronic (long-term) pain in the lower back and pelvis.
    • Pain during or after sex. This is usually described as a "deep" pain and is different from pain felt at the entrance to the vagina when penetration begins.
    • Intestinal pain.
    • Painful bowel movements or pain when urinating during menstrual periods. In rare cases, you may also find blood in your stool or urine.
  • Bleeding or spotting between menstrual periods. This can be caused by something other than endometriosis. If it happens often, you should see your doctor.
  • Infertility, or not being able to get pregnant.
  • Digestive problems. These include diarrhea, constipation, bloating or nausea, especially during menstrual periods.

How is Endometriosis Treated?

There is no cure for endometriosis, but several different treatment options can help manage the symptoms or improve your chances of getting pregnant.

Treatment for pain usually involves medication (e.g., hormone therapy and pain medications) or surgery. The approach you and your doctor choose will depend on how severe your signs and symptoms are and whether you hope to become pregnant. If you're having difficulty getting pregnant, your doctor may recommend fertility treatment.

Talk to your doctor about your treatment options. To speak with a Boulder Women’s Care provider, call (303) 441-0587.