Sign and symptoms

1. Pelvic Pain: One of the most common symptoms of endometriosis is chronic pelvic pain. This pain often intensifies during menstruation but can also occur at other times of the menstrual cycle. The pain can range from mild to severe and may interfere with daily activities.
   • It may be felt as a deep ache in the lower abdomen, but it can also spread to the lower back or legs. For some, the pain can be so intense that it disrupts work, social activities, and overall quality of life.
2. Heavy Menstrual Bleeding (Menorrhagia): Many women with endometriosis experience heavy or irregular periods. This can mean soaking through sanitary products in less than an hour or having periods that last longer than usual.
   • Some may also experience spotting between periods, which can further affect daily life.
3. Pain During Intercourse (Dyspareunia): Painful intercourse is a common symptom of endometriosis, particularly deep pain during or after sex. This may be due to the growth of endometrial tissue near the vaginal area or other reproductive organs. The pain can vary in intensity and might last for several hours after intercourse.
4. Pain with Bowel Movements or Urination: Endometriosis can affect the intestines and bladder, leading to pain during bowel movements or urination, especially during menstruation. Symptoms may include:
   • Painful bowel movements or discomfort during urination.
   • Some individuals also experience nausea or constipation alongside this pain.
5. Fatigue: Women with endometriosis often report feeling extremely tired, even when they have had enough rest. This fatigue can be linked to the chronic pain associated with the condition, as well as its impact on emotional well-being.
6. Infertility: In some cases, endometriosis can cause difficulty in conceiving. Endometrial tissue can interfere with the functioning of the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and uterus, making it harder for an egg to be fertilised or for an embryo to implant in the uterus. Up to 30-50% of women with endometriosis may face fertility challenges.