Painfully Misunderstood: Period Pain or Endometriosis? Knowing When to Seek Help

Mar 10, 2025 Women's Health

 

Endometriosis is a condition that affects many women, yet it remains painfully misunderstood. Endometriosis Action Month is a crucial time to shed light on a condition that affects millions of women worldwide, often causing debilitating pain and significantly impacting their quality of life. 

Unlike typical period pain, endometriosis involves tissue similar to the uterine lining growing outside the uterus, leading to chronic pelvic pain, painful intercourse, and potential infertility. Raising awareness is essential because it enables early diagnosis, reduces the stigma surrounding this often misunderstood condition, and empowers women to seek the necessary support and treatment. 

By increasing understanding, we can advocate for improved research, better management options, and ultimately, a more supportive environment for those living with endometriosis.

 

Is Endometriosis Just ‘Bad Period Pain’?:

Many people believe that endometriosis is simply a case of severe period pain. This isn’t correct. While painful periods (dysmenorrhea) are a common symptom of endometriosis, the pain associated with the condition is often more intense, chronic, and debilitating than typical period cramps.

To understand the difference, consider these points:

• Intensity: Endometriosis pain is often described as severe and may not respond to over-the-counter pain relief.
• Duration: The pain can extend beyond the period itself, occurring throughout the menstrual cycle.
• Location: While period cramps are typically felt in the lower abdomen, endometriosis pain can radiate to the back, legs, and even the shoulders.
• Associated Symptoms: Endometriosis often presents with other symptoms like fatigue, bowel and bladder problems, and pain during intercourse.

 

How Can I Track My Symptoms for an Accurate Diagnosis?

Tracking your symptoms is a crucial step towards obtaining an accurate endometriosis diagnosis. Keeping a detailed record of your pain, its intensity, location, and associated symptoms can provide valuable information for your doctor.

• Use a Pain Diary: Maintain a daily record of your pain levels, using a scale of 1 to 10 to rate the intensity. Note the location of the pain (e.g., lower abdomen, back, legs) and any activities or factors that seem to trigger or worsen the pain.
• Record Menstrual Cycle Details: Track the start and end dates of your periods, as well as the heaviness of your flow. Note any irregularities in your cycle, such as spotting between periods or unusually long or short cycles.
• Document Other Symptoms: Keep track of any other symptoms you experience, such as fatigue, bowel or bladder problems, nausea, or pain during intercourse. Note when these symptoms occur during your menstrual cycle.
• Note Medication Use: Record any pain relief medications you take, including the dosage and frequency. Note how effective the medication is in relieving your pain.
• Be Consistent: The more consistently you track your symptoms, the more accurate and informative your record will be.

By tracking your symptoms in detail, you can provide your doctor with a comprehensive overview of your condition, which can aid in the diagnosis process. This may also help you make informed choices about pain management and lifestyle options.

 

What are the Available Treatment Options for Endometriosis?

There are various treatment options for endometriosis, ranging from pain management to surgical interventions. The choice of treatment depends on the severity of your symptoms, your age, and whether you want to conceive children in the future.

 

Pain Relief Medications For Endometriosis

Paracetamol

Paracetamol is a common over-the-counter pain reliever that can help alleviate mild to moderate pain. It may be used alongside some NSAIDs (see below).
 

NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs

NSAIDs such as ibuprofen and naproxen, available over-the-counter or shipped directly to you from Simply Meds Online, can help reduce the inflammation and pain caused by endometriosis.

When starting pain relief please read the patient user information carefully. If you are unsure whether these painkillers are suitable for you please check with your doctor or pharmacist.

 

Hormonal Therapies Suitable For Endometriosis Treatment

These treatments aim to suppress the growth of endometrial tissue and reduce pain.

Oral contraceptives can help regulate menstrual cycles, reduce heavy bleeding, and alleviate pain.

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists are medications that temporarily shut down the production of oestrogen, inducing a temporary menopause-like state.

Progestin therapy such as progestin-only pills, injections, or intrauterine devices (IUDs) can help reduce pain and bleeding.

 

Surgery For Endometriosis

Surgery may sometimes be necessary to remove endometrial tissue or repair damaged organs. This is done in one of two ways.

Laparoscopy: A minimally invasive surgical procedure in which a surgeon makes small incisions in the abdomen to remove endometrial tissue.

Hysterectomy: In severe cases, a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) may be considered as a last resort.

 

Other Therapies For Endometriosis

Heat Patches: Applying heat to the abdomen or back can help to relax muscles and reduce pain. These heat patches are a popular choice at Simply Meds Online.

TENs Machines: Often used during labour or to help with pain such as back pain, a TENs machine has been shown to offer some women relief from painful symptoms. Please note that a TENs machine isn’t suitable for many people with heart issues. Check with your GP before use.

It's essential to discuss the benefits and risks of each treatment option with your doctor to determine the most appropriate approach for your individual needs.

 

Can Lifestyle Changes Help with Endometriosis Pain?

In addition to medical treatments, lifestyle changes can help manage endometriosis pain. These include:

• Diet: Some women find that following an anti-inflammatory diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids, can help reduce pain.
• Exercise: Regular exercise can help improve overall health and reduce pain.
• Stress Management: Stress can worsen endometriosis pain, so finding healthy ways to manage stress, such as yoga or meditation, can be beneficial.
• Heat Therapy: Applying heat to the abdomen or back can help relax muscles and alleviate pain. This can include using a hot water bottle or a warm bath or shower.

 

Can Pregnancy Cure Endometriosis?

Pregnancy does not cure endometriosis. While some women experience a temporary reduction in symptoms during pregnancy due to hormonal changes, the symptoms often return after childbirth.

 

Do All Women with Endometriosis Struggle with Infertility?

While endometriosis can affect fertility, not all women with the condition struggle with infertility. Many women with endometriosis can conceive naturally. However, for those who experience difficulty conceiving, there are various fertility treatments available, such as IVF.

 

What are the Latest Advances in Endometriosis Research?

Endometriosis research is ongoing, with new discoveries being made all the time. Some of the latest advances include:

• Improved Diagnostic Techniques: Researchers are working on developing non-invasive diagnostic tools, such as blood tests and imaging techniques, to diagnose endometriosis earlier and more accurately.
• New Treatment Options: Scientists are exploring new medications and therapies to target the underlying causes of endometriosis and provide more effective pain relief.
• Understanding the Genetics of Endometriosis: Research is underway to identify the genes that may contribute to the development of endometriosis, which could lead to more targeted treatments in the future.

Research is ongoing. This, alongside better awareness for sufferers, understanding from employers and improved early diagnosis systems, will continue to make a significant difference to sufferers.

 

Endometriosis - Awareness, Support, Understanding and Treatment

Endometriosis is a complex and often debilitating condition that requires early diagnosis and appropriate treatment. By understanding the difference between typical period pain and endometriosis pain, tracking your symptoms, and seeking medical advice, you can take control of your health and improve your quality of life. 

Don’t suffer in silence. Speak to your GP, visit Endometriosis UK for further information and support and connect with others who have endometriosis. In the meantime, find out more about Endometriosis Action Month and how this and other Endometriosis UK initiatives support those affected by this painfully misunderstood condition.