Symptoms of endometriosis: Don't take pelvic pain, heavy menstrual bleeding lightly

Endometriosis is a chronic medical condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus, called endometrium, grows outside the uterus. (Image: Canva)

Endometriosis is a chronic medical condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus, called endometrium, grows outside the uterus. This tissue can be found on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and other organs in the pelvis. Each month, this tissue responds to hormonal changes by thickening, breaking down, and bleeding, but unlike the uterine lining, it has no way to exit the body. This causes inflammation, pain, and scar tissue formation. Common symptoms include severe pelvic pain, especially during menstruation, heavy menstrual bleeding, pain during intercourse, and infertility. The exact cause of endometriosis is unknown, but factors like genetics, immune system disorders, and hormonal imbalances may contribute.

Detecting endometriosis at home can be challenging since it's a medical condition that often requires professional diagnosis. However, there are several ways to monitor and assess your symptoms that might prompt you to seek medical attention sooner. Here are seven home methods to help you detect potential signs of endometriosis, according to Dr Manisha Kadam, a senior gynaecologist and a mother and child care expert based out of Noida.

Track your menstrual cycle

Use a period tracker app or calendar to log the start and end dates of your periods, flow intensity, and any irregularities. Note any symptoms like severe cramping or spotting between periods, which can help in assessing patterns that may indicate endometriosis.

Monitor pelvic pain

Maintain a pain journal detailing any pelvic pain experienced, including its location, intensity, and duration. Record when the pain occurs, especially in relation to your menstrual cycle or specific activities, to identify patterns that could suggest endometriosis.

Record digestive symptoms

Track any digestive issues, such as bloating, constipation, or diarrhoea, and note if these symptoms occur in conjunction with your menstrual cycle. Persistent or cyclical digestive problems can be a sign of endometriosis affecting the digestive system.

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Assess pain during intercourse

Document any pain experienced during or after sexual intercourse. Note the severity and frequency of this pain to provide your healthcare provider with detailed information that can help in diagnosing endometriosis.

Observe menstrual flow

Log changes in your menstrual flow, such as unusually heavy bleeding, clotting, or spotting between periods. This information can indicate irregularities that might be related to endometriosis and should be shared with your healthcare provider.

Monitor infertility issues

Keep track of your attempts to conceive and any related symptoms if you’re experiencing difficulty. A history of unexplained infertility, along with other symptoms, can be indicative of endometriosis and warrant further investigation.

Evaluate general well-being

Record any general symptoms, like fatigue, lower back pain, or leg pain, and observe their frequency and severity. These broader symptoms, when combined with other signs, can help in assessing whether endometriosis might be a concern.