It can feel intimidating or awkward to talk to your gynecologist about pain or issues related to your gynecological and sexual health, but you shouldn’t worry because they are there to help. If you experience certain symptoms, you could have endometriosis, a condition that causes uterine lining tissue to grow outside of the uterus. Some women ignore signs of this painful disorder because they assume it’s related to regular PMS pain, but some signs shouldn’t be ignored.

4 Signs of Endometriosis to Share With Your Gynecologist  

1. Trouble Getting Pregnant

Endometriosis sometimes exhibits no symptoms at all, until a woman tries to get pregnant and discovers she can’t. It’s among the leading causes of infertility among women. If you have tried to get pregnant for six months or more, see your gynecologist for an exam and fertility testing.

2. Painful Sex

You don’t have to live with pain during sexual intercourse. It might be uncomfortable to talk to a gynecologist about this problem, but you deserve a solution. There are many possible reasons for why you’re experiencing pain, such as an infection, the absence of lubrication, or endometriosis.

3. Unresolved Bladder or Stomach Problems

Yes, that constipation or IBS could be related to endometriosis. The uterine lining tissue can be present in the bowels or on the bladder, causing pain that may feel like a bladder infection or stomach pain.

4. Extended PMS Pain & Heavy Periods

Does it seem like your PMS hits you harder than most? If cramps start long before your period or you can’t maintain your daily activities during your period because the pain is too great or your flow is too heavy, it’s time to talk to a women’s health care professional.

While there are no cures for endometriosis, there are treatments that can ease your pain, help with infertility and provide relief from heavy periods. Share your symptoms with your gynecologist to begin taking steps toward relief today.

The trusted physicians of Caring for Women in Anchorage and Wasilla, AK, offer personalized OB-GYN care in an atmosphere that will put you at ease. Dolly Lefever, CNM, FNP, APRN, is committed to helping women stay healthy through preventative care, and Dr. Donna Chester is Anchorage’s most experienced women’s microsurgery physician. You deserve top-quality, compassionate care from a trusted gynecologist. Call (907) 279-2229 or request your appointment online today.