Endometriosis
Could My Painful Periods Be Endometriosis? 7 Signs You Shouldn't Ignore
Many women are told that painful periods are simply something they must live with. However, severe menstrual pain, pain during intercourse, painful bowel movements, or difficulty becoming pregnant can sometimes be signs of endometriosis.
Persistent period pain is not normal — you are not alone, and specialist care can make all the difference.
Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the womb grows outside the uterus, often affecting the ovaries, pelvic lining, bowel or bladder.
Endometriosis can affect the ovaries, fallopian tubes, bowel, bladder and pelvic lining — which is why symptoms vary so widely from woman to woman.
Common symptoms of endometriosis
- Severe period pain
- Chronic pelvic pain
- Pain during sex
- Pain opening bowels during periods
- Fatigue
- Bloating (“endo belly”)
- Difficulty conceiving
- Heavy menstrual bleeding
When should you seek specialist assessment?
If your symptoms affect work, family life, exercise, sleep or relationships, specialist assessment may be appropriate.
Modern investigations may include:
- Pelvic ultrasound
- MRI scanning
- Specialist gynaecological examination
Treatment options
Treatment depends on your symptoms, fertility plans and scan findings. Options may include:
- Hormonal treatment
- Pain management
- Specialist laparoscopic surgery
- Robotic-assisted endometriosis surgery
Mr Rahul Gore – endometriosis specialist in Kent
As a consultant gynaecologist and endometriosis specialist in Kent, Mr Rahul Gore provides assessment and treatment for women experiencing pelvic pain, painful periods and complex endometriosis.