Disclaimer: Hey there, friend! Just a quick reminder—I’m not a doctor, and this blog post isn’t medical advice (as much as I wish my Google searches made me a certified expert). Endometriosis is a complex condition, and everyone’s experience is different. If you suspect you have endo or are struggling with symptoms, please chat with a qualified healthcare provider. They have the tools, knowledge, and fancy medical degrees to give you the right guidance. This blog is all about sharing personal experiences and insights, not diagnosing or curing anything—so take what resonates, do your own research, and always prioritize your health. 💛

When I was first diagnosed with endometriosis, I had no idea what it really meant.

I had spent years dealing with painful periods, exhaustion, and random aches that no one could explain. Doctors brushed it off as “just bad cramps” or “part of being a woman.” But deep down, I knew something wasn’t right. It wasn’t until I finally found a gynecologist who took my pain seriously and took the initiative to do a laparoscopic uterine ablation that I got my diagnosis: endometriosis.

If you’re reading this, chances are you (or someone you love) may be dealing with endometriosis too. Whether you’re newly diagnosed, suspect you might have it, or are simply looking for more information, I’m here to break it all down in a way that makes sense. Let’s dive into what endometriosis is, how it affects us, and what you can do to manage it.

What Is Endometriosis?

Endometriosis is a chronic condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus (called the endometrium) grows outside of the uterus. This tissue can be found on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, intestines, bladder, and even in more distant areas of the body. Unlike the normal uterine lining that sheds during menstruation, this misplaced tissue has nowhere to go, leading to inflammation, scarring, and pain.

What Causes Endometriosis?

The frustrating truth? No one knows the exact cause. Bummer, right? But there are a few theories, including:

Retrograde Menstruation– Some believe that menstrual blood flows backward into the pelvic cavity instead of out through the vagina, causing endometrial-like cells to implant and grow.

Immune System Issues – A weakened immune system may fail to recognize and destroy these misplaced cells.

Genetics– Endometriosis tends to run in families, so if your mom or sister has it, your chances of developing it may be higher.

Hormonal Factors– Estrogen seems to fuel endometriosis, which is why hormone-based treatments are sometimes used for symptom management.

Common Symptoms of Endometriosis

Symptoms can vary from person to person. Some have mild symptoms, while others (like me) experience debilitating pain.

Here are some of the most common signs:

• Severe menstrual cramps – Pain that doesn’t go away with over-the-counter meds.
• Chronic pelvic pain – Pain that lingers even when you’re not on your period.
• Pain during or after sex – A symptom that’s often overlooked but very real.
• Painful bowel movements or urination– Especially during menstruation.
• Heavy or irregular periods – Sometimes accompanied by blood clots.
• Bloating (aka “endo belly”) – That uncomfortable, swollen feeling that makes you look six months pregnant overnight.
• Fatigue – Feeling exhausted no matter how much rest you get.
• Infertility – Unfortunately, endometriosis is a leading cause of infertility, but many women with the condition do go on to have children.

How Is Endometriosis Diagnosed?

One of the most frustrating things about endometriosis is how long it takes to get a diagnosis. On average, it takes 7-10 years from the onset of symptoms. Why? Because many doctors still don’t recognize the signs, and endometriosis doesn’t always show up on imaging tests like ultrasounds or MRIs.

The “gold standard” for diagnosing endometriosis is laparoscopy, a minimally invasive surgery where a small camera is inserted into the abdomen to look for endometrial-like tissue. If found, the surgeon may also remove or burn the lesions in the same procedure.

Treatment Options: Managing Endometriosis

There is no cure for endometriosis (yet!), but there are ways to manage the symptoms and improve quality of life. Here’s what has helped me. At times, I have had to rely on a combination of these treatments depending on the severity of my symptoms:

1. Pain Management

– Over-the-counter pain relievers – Ibuprofen and naproxen can help, but they don’t always cut it.

– Prescription pain meds – If your pain is severe, a doctor may prescribe stronger medications.

– Heat therapy – Heating pads and warm baths have been my lifesavers.

– Physical therapy – A pelvic floor therapist can help relieve pain and tension in the pelvic muscles.

2. Hormonal Treatments

Since estrogen fuels endometriosis, hormone therapy is often used to suppress symptoms:

• Birth control pills, patches, or rings– Can help regulate periods and reduce pain.
• Progestin therapy (IUD, injection, or pill) – Works by thinning the endometrial lining and suppressing growths.
• GnRH agonists (like Lupron) – Puts the body into temporary menopause to stop estrogen production (but can come with rough side effects).

3. Surgery

Surgery may seem like an extreme measure for treatment, but endometriosis can be an extremely painful and even debilitating disease (which many don’t realize). Again, even if surgery is not a cure, it can provide much-needed relief to patients.

• Laparoscopic excision surgery – The most effective surgery for removing endometriosis lesions while preserving fertility.
• Hysterectomy – In severe cases, some opt for a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus), but this is NOT a cure for endometriosis if lesions exist outside the uterus.

4. Lifestyle Changes & Alternative Therapies

Managing (again, not curing) endometriosis isn’t just about medication—it’s also about lifestyle adjustments:

– Anti-inflammatory diet – Cutting out dairy, gluten, and processed foods can help reduce flare-ups.

– Exercise– Low-impact activities like yoga and stretching can ease pelvic pain. I opt for gentle walks outside and yoga through the Find What Feels Good app.

– Stress management – Meditation, acupuncture, and deep breathing can help reduce stress-related flares. My favorite tool for meditation guidance, managing stress, and improving my sleep is the Calm app. You can use my invite link here to try Calm free for 30 days.

Endometriosis & Fertility

One of the scariest parts of an endometriosis diagnosis is the impact on fertility. Endometriosis can cause scar tissue that blocks the fallopian tubes, makes implantation difficult, or affects egg quality. But here’s the good news: having endometriosis does not mean you can’t get pregnant. Many women with endometriosis conceive naturally, while others may need assistance through fertility treatments like IVF. If starting a family is a priority for you, it’s worth discussing your options with a reproductive specialist early on.

Living with Endometriosis: My Personal Tips

If you’re navigating life with endometriosis, here are some things that have helped me:

• Be your own advocate. If a doctor dismisses your pain, find another one who listens.
• Track your symptoms. Keeping a pain diary in a notes app can help you recognize patterns and triggers.
• Join a support group. Connecting with others who understand what you’re going through can be incredibly validating. MyEndometriosisTeam is one of my favorite groups because I don’t have to dig through social apps to find helpful resources or like-minded women who “get it.” Click here to check it out.
• Find a therapist. Living with a chronic illness takes a toll. Therapy has been a huge comfort to me during my worst seasons with the disease. I use Talkspace for my care, which is super convenient since all my sessions are done virtually. Plus, they take my insurance.
• Give yourself grace. Some days will be tough, and that’s okay. Rest when you need to.

The Future of Endometriosis Treatment

The good news? Awareness about endometriosis is growing, and research is advancing. New treatments are being developed, and more doctors are recognizing the condition. The more we talk about it, the closer we get to better treatments—hopefully, a cure.

Final Thoughts

Living with endometriosis can be challenging, but you are not alone. Whether you’re just starting your journey or have been dealing with this for years, know that your pain is real, your experiences matter, and there is hope. Keep advocating for yourself, exploring your options, and finding what works best for you. You deserve relief, support, and the best possible quality of life.

Got any tips or personal experiences with endometriosis? Drop them in the comments—I’d love to hear from you! 💛