Flag Your Uterine Health Conditions
Endometriosis
Learn more about
period pain
The truth is, periods are often uncomfortable; most women report experiencing some pain during menstruation.1 pain, also called , is common with periods. Severe menstrual pain must be addressed. If you are experiencing period pain that makes it difficult to do daily activities, it may be time to pinpoint your pain and reach out to your healthcare provider.1Learn more
Menstrual pain and
endometriosis
Severe menstrual pain may be a sign of a condition known as .4 Endometriosis is a disease in which tissue similar to the lining of the , grows in other places outside of the uterus.4 Endometriosis may also be associated with nonmenstrual pelvic pain, pain during or after sex, pain in the lower abdomen, or pain while using the bathroom.4 Other common symptoms include problems getting pregnant, heavy menstrual bleeding, or irregular bleeding.4
Endometriosis is a complex disease that can affect the body in many ways.6 Endometriosis Association, a , provides information on symptoms of endometriosis including types of pain.
Understanding
endometriosis
Endometriosis is a chronic disease that does not yet have a cure.8 Being diagnosed with endometriosis and understanding what it means for your future can feel overwhelming. To help you along your journey, the Society for Women’s Health Research, a patient advocacy organization, has created a toolkit with information about the condition and guidance on how to learn more.
Who gets endometriosis?
Endometriosis affects approximately 1 in 10 women of reproductive age (10%), which is about 7.5 million people in the United States and 190 million people all over the world.6,9-11 Many people start experiencing symptoms of endometriosis during adolescence and young adulthood; however, the average delay between the onset of symptoms and diagnosis is 4 to 11 years.6,8,12 While endometriosis can affect anyone regardless of race or socioeconomic status, people of color are more likely to have their pain dismissed by healthcare providers.13
References
1. Period problems. Office on Women's Health. Accessed March 2025. https://www.womenshealth.gov/menstrual-cycle/period-problems. 2. Menstrual definition. Merriam-Webster. Accessed March 2025.