Endometriosis Symptoms Explained

Period Pains

Although this is one of the most common symptoms of endometriosis, if it occurs without any of the other symptoms, it’s likely to be unrelated. However, more severe period pains occur due to the increased inflammation caused by endometriosis, as well as the presence of other conditions like adenomyosis which often coexist with endometriosis. 

Severe pain during intercourse 

Endometriosis can cause large cysts to grow inside the ovaries or vagina which can lead to pain during intercourse. 

Painful bowel movements 

Endometriosis can cause the bowel to become attached to the vagina which can lead to painful bowel movements. This is most common during periods, but can also occur more regularly. Endometriotic cysts that put pressure on the bowel can also be a cause of pain in the bowels. 

Shooting pain in the rectum 

This is a common symptom of rectovaginal endometriosis due to growths around the uterosacral ligament and rectovaginal zone. 

Rectal Bleeding 

Rectal bleeding usually occurs during periods, so often follows the same cycle and produces a darker blood, similar to when menstruating. You can usually differentiate it from conditions like piles or anal fissures which produce fresher blood. 

Back pain 

This often occurs in cases of endometriosis which spread to the uterosacral ligaments. 

Thigh pain 

Thigh pain usually occurs in cases of endometriosis in the ovaries, which cause the ovaries to stick to the side of the pelvis. The nerves then become irritated, resulting in thigh pain. 

Urinary Symptoms 

In cases of endometriosis that affect the bladder, it’s common to experience bladder pain and difficulty holding urine. In a small number of cases, when endometriosis spreads to the bladder wall, patients my find blood in their urine. 

If you’d like to discuss this or any other gynaecological issue with Dr Kovoor, you can request an appointment by visiting his profile.