Plagued by Painful Periods? It Could Be Endometriosis

For many women, menstrual cramps are unpleasant and unwelcome. But, some women suffer severe, persistent, or disruptive period pain. Their experience is more than “just bad cramps.” 

One possible cause is endometriosis, which affects one out of 10 women of reproductive age. 

Unfortunately, endometriosis is frequently underdiagnosed, with many women suffering for years before receiving answers. The OB/GYN team at  Women’s Care of Beverly Hills wants you to understand the signs of endometriosis so you know when to seek care to improve your quality of life.

About endometriosis

Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus. These growths are often found on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, pelvic lining, or bowel. They respond to hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle, leading to inflammation and pain.

Because this tissue has no way to exit the body, it can cause irritation, scarring, and adhesions over time.

Common symptoms of endometriosis

While symptoms vary from person to person, common signs include:

• Painful periods that worsen over time
• Pelvic pain before, during, or after menstruation
• Pain during or after intercourse
• Chronic lower back or abdominal pain
• Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
• Pain with bowel movements or urination (especially during periods)
• Fatigue, bloating, nausea, or digestive discomfort
• Difficulty conceiving or infertility

The severity of your symptoms doesn’t always correlate with the extent of disease. Even mild cases can cause significant discomfort.

Why endometriosis goes undiagnosed

Many women are told that painful periods are “normal” or something they simply need to tolerate. This can delay diagnosis and treatment. On average, it can take up to 10 years from symptom onset to diagnosis.

Because symptoms may overlap with conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), we recommend you make an appointment for a thorough evaluation at our office if you’re experiencing symptoms of endometriosis.

How we diagnose endometriosis

Our team begins your evaluation with a detailed medical history and pelvic exam. We may order imaging studies such as ultrasound or MRI to help identify cysts or advanced disease. We recognize, though, that endometriosis can’t always be seen on imaging.

In some cases, we recommend minimally invasive surgery to confirm the endometriosis diagnosis and, when appropriate, treat the condition at the same time.

Treatment options for endometriosis

We help you manage endometriosis depending on your symptom severity, age, fertility goals, and overall health. Options may include:

• Anti-inflammatory medications for pain relief
• Hormonal therapies to reduce or suppress menstruation
• Physical therapy focused on pelvic floor dysfunction
• Lifestyle modifications, including nutrition and stress management
• Surgical treatment to remove endometriosis lesions when necessary

There is no cure for endometriosis, but with our help, your symptoms can be reduced to improve your quality of life.

When to see an OB/GYN for endometriosis evaluation

If your periods are interfering with work, school, relationships, or your overall well-being, it’s time to seek care. Painful periods are not something you should have to endure in silence.

Early evaluation and treatment can help prevent progression and support both reproductive and long-term health.

If you suspect endometriosis or feel your symptoms aren’t being taken seriously, advocating for yourself and seeking specialized care is an important step.

Reach out to Women’s Care of Beverly Hills today by phone or make an appointment online to set up an evaluation and find out your options for treatment.