Some women with endometriosis have no symptoms at all. When symptoms are present they range from mild to severe. Women with many large growths may have little pain, while others with small areas of endometriosis may have severe pain.
The symptoms of endometriosis are:
Pelvic Pain
—There is usually severe menstrual cramping, either just before or during menses. Pain can also occur mid-way between periods, continually through the month, or without a specific pattern. Many women have pain when they have sexual intercourse. The pain can occur on both sides of the pelvis, go down to the lower back and rectal area, and down to the legs.
Infertility
—Some experts estimate that between 30%-50% of women with endometriosis are infertile. Infertility is thought to result from blockage of the fallopian tubes by endometrial tissue.
Other Symptoms
—Other symptoms of endometriosis include:
- Fatigue
- Bloating
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Heavy menstrual bleeding
- Headaches
- Painful urination and bleeding (rare)
- Painful bowel movements or diarrhea (rare)
The Endometriosis Association
website. Available at:
http://www.endometriosisassn.org/
. Accessed March 1, 2006.
Endometriosis Research Center
website. Available at:
http://www.endocenter.org/
. Accessed March 1, 2006.
National Institute of Child Health and Human Development website. Available at:
http://www.nichd.nih.gov/
. Accessed March 1, 2006.