That is a big number. More people have endometriosis than diabetes.
*Endo Insight acknowledges this statistic may not be entirely inclusive and fostering inclusion here is a priority.
Our website aims to serve as a valuable resource for all individuals with endometriosis, including girls and those identifying as trans, non-binary, and gender non-conforming.
So, what is endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a condition characterized by tissue resembling the uterine lining growing outside the uterus, often affecting the ovaries, bowel, or pelvic lining. During the menstrual cycle, this tissue thickens, breaks down, and bleeds, causing pain, cysts, and adhesions due to its trapped nature.
Who can get endometriosis?
Anyone of reproductive age can get endometriosis.
It does not discriminate.
What are the symptoms of endometriosis?
Several common symptoms include:
How do I know if my periods are “painful?”
Are you missing out on normal activities? Do you have days where nothing (paracetamol, Aleve) can relieve the pain? If you have days where you *push* yourself through the day, this is not normal.
I don’t have painful periods, could I still have endometriosis?
Painful periods aren’t universal for those with endometriosis. While some may have pain-free periods, others might encounter different symptoms throughout the month.
How do you treat endometriosis?
First, you must get an official diagnosis, for most people, this can take anywhere up to 7 years. This is because the only accurate way to diagnose endometriosis is via laparoscopic surgery.
During this surgery, you can have the endometriosis excised (this is the gold standard for surgery) which reduces symptoms, but does not prevent future growth or cure endometriosis.
What other treatment options do I have?
Traditional management includes hormonal treatment (such as the contraceptive pill or IUDs) and painkillers.
What other alternative tools exist?
Some other ways to manage endometriosis include; diet and nutrition, exercise, therapy, Chinese medicine and CBD/cannabis.
Please note that none of these options cure endometriosis.
