What are the symptoms of endometriosis

Common symptoms of endometriosis include dysmenorrhea, chronic pelvic pain, dyspareunia, abnormal menstruation and infertility. Endometriosis is the growth of endometrial tissue outside the uterine cavity, which may cause inflammation and adhesions.

1. Dysmenorrhea

Dysmenorrhea is the most typical symptom of endometriosis, manifesting as severe pain in the lower abdomen during menstruation, which may radiate to the lumbosacral area or inner thighs. The pain usually starts 1-2 days before menstruation and lasts throughout the menstrual period. This pain is associated with increased prostaglandin secretion and local inflammatory response. For mild pain, you can use ibuprofen extended-release capsules or acetaminophen tablets to relieve symptoms. Moderate to severe pain may need to be controlled with medications such as dienogest tablets.

2. Chronic pelvic pain

Chronic pelvic pain manifests as a dull pain or bloating in the lower abdomen that persists during non-menstrual periods, and may be accompanied by lumbosacral soreness. The degree of pain is related to the location and scope of the lesion, and the pain is more obvious in patients with ovarian endometriosis cysts. Pain may be related to pelvic adhesions and nerve compression. In addition to medication, heat compresses and pelvic floor muscle relaxation exercises can help relieve symptoms.

3. Pain during sexual intercourse

Dyspareunia usually occurs during deep intercourse and manifests as sharp pain deep in the vagina or lower abdomen. This symptom is more common in endometriosis lesions in the utero-rectal pouch or sacral ligament. Pain may worsen with changes in sexual intercourse position, seriously affecting quality of life. Using drugs such as drospirenone and ethinylestradiol tablets may relieve symptoms, and severe cases may require surgical treatment.

4. Abnormal menstruation

Menstrual abnormalities manifest as increased menstrual flow, prolonged menstrual periods, or intermenstrual bleeding. These symptoms are related to abnormal ovarian function and changes in uterine contractility. Some patients may experience anemia-related symptoms such as fatigue and dizziness. Medroxyprogesterone acetate dispersible tablets and other drugs can help regulate the menstrual cycle and improve abnormal bleeding symptoms.

5. Infertility

About 30%-50% of patients with endometriosis are complicated by infertility, which may be related to changes in pelvic anatomy, abnormal ovarian function and immune factors. Infertility caused by endometriosis often requires comprehensive treatment, including medication to control the disease and then assisted reproductive technology. For younger patients, early diagnosis and treatment can help improve pregnancy success rates.

Patients with endometriosis should pay attention to maintaining a regular schedule and avoid overexertion. In your diet, you can appropriately increase foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as deep-sea fish, and reduce your intake of red meat. Moderate exercise such as yoga and swimming can help improve pelvic blood circulation, but strenuous exercise should be avoided. Regular gynecological examinations are important to monitor changes in the condition. If symptoms worsen or new symptoms occur, you should seek medical treatment promptly.