Although a common condition, there’s a lot of misconception about endometriosis. About 200 million women worldwide suffer from endometriosis, which is why it’s important to talk about the myths and misconceptions related to this condition.
Simply put, endometriosis is a painful condition that results when the lining of the uterus called the endometrium grows outside the uterus. You need not be confused about infertility treatment that can provide you relief from this condition. We know there’s a lot you don’t understand about Endometriosis, and we are here to bust some most common myths.
Myth: Endometriosis is nothing else but a heavy period.
During your monthly cycle, the hormones cause the development of an inner lining every month to prepare the uterus for a possible pregnancy. When you do not get pregnant, the uterus sheds that inner lining that exists in the vagina causing the period.
Endometriosis is different because it triggers the same hormones to build up lining on the outside of the uterus. The tissue thickens on your ovaries and on the fallopian tubes which causes intense pain when the tissue breaks. Sometimes this causes more bleeding during periods but not always.
Myth: During periods serious pain is normal.
Often there’s a misconception that serious pain is common during periods. When pain starts to interfere with your daily routine, you need to consult your doctor. Sometimes infertility treatment can cause pain but it won’t be localized around your period.
But when you are under severe pain during periods, it can be a sign of endometriosis. Also, if the pain occurs when you go to the bathroom, between periods or during sex, then you need to consult your doctor.
Myth: This condition only affects older women.
No. You can get endometriosis when you start your period. Age is not a factor for this condition, however, the likelihood increases during your 30s and 40s. You are at higher risk of endometriosis if:
- You have a family history of the condition
- Your period starts at a young age
- Your periods are for more than 7 days
This condition can take up to 10 years to diagnose, which is why you need to be proactive and talk to your doctor if you experience symptoms like bad cramps, spotting, bloating or heavy bleeding during periods.
Myth: Heavy bleeding during periods is a symptom of endometriosis.
Not always. In some cases, endometriosis might be the cause, but there are conditions too like thyroid problems, cancer, pregnancy and growth of polyps that can cause you to bleed more during periods.
Myth: It’s all in your head.
Sometimes women think that the condition is just in their head when endometriosis is very much a physical condition as well. If you are getting IVF treatment, talk to your doctor about the symptoms. You do not have to suffer in silence as years of painful periods and uncomfortable sex will take a toll on your mental health when you are not sure what is causing these problems. Sometimes tissue and blood build-up can cause inflammation and scarring of the tissue that may require surgery. You must consult a gynecologist who specializes in endometriosis.
Myth: Symptoms always tell how serious the condition is.
It’s not the same always. It is not uncommon to have advanced endometriosis with no obvious symptoms. And at times even mild cases of endometriosis can cause severe symptoms.
Myth: Pregnancy cures endometriosis.
It is a very unconventional misconception, but there is no treatment available for endometriosis. Pain medications and hormone therapy can ease the condition, while serious cases might need surgery. Usually, during pregnancy, you do not get periods that raise the level of progesterone hormone in your body, relieving the signs of endometriosis.
Myth: Endometriosis can result in infertility.
Not necessarily. Many women still get pregnant even after suffering from Endometriosis. The condition can cause complications in pregnancy, when serious. This is why talk to your doctors when getting IVF treatment about endometriosis when you are planning a pregnancy.
Keep an open mind and do not suffer in silence as endometriosis is a physical condition that requires medical attention.