CONSIDER the experience of Andrea, a 27-year-old professional who had struggled with painful periods since high school. Each month she missed work due to severe cramps, nausea, and exhaustion. Friends and family often told her that periods are supposed to hurt.

For years she relied on painkillers to cope. It was only when she began experiencing pain during intercourse that she finally sought specialised care. After evaluation, she was diagnosed with endometriosis and eventually successfully treated.

Andrea’s story is unfortunately not uncommon. Many women live with symptoms for years before receiving the answers they need.

Endometriosis is one of the most misunderstood conditions affecting women. It is estimated that one in 10 women of reproductive age worldwide may be affected, yet many suffer in silence for years before receiving a diagnosis.

What’s unfortunate about this condition is that it is surrounded by many myths. These misconceptions often lead women to dismiss symptoms, delay seeking care, or feel that their pain is simply something they must endure. This often leads to an overall advancement of disease and further complications.

Understanding the truth about endometriosis can help women recognise symptoms earlier and seek appropriate treatment.

What is endometriosis?

Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the womb. These growths are commonly found on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, pelvic lining, and sometimes even beyond the pelvis.

Like the uterine lining, this tissue responds to hormones and can bleed during the menstrual cycle, leading to inflammation, scarring, and significant pain.

Unfortunately, misinformation about the condition is widespread.

Myth #1: Severe period pain is normal

Many women grow up hearing that painful periods are simply part of being a woman.

While mild discomfort during menstruation can occur, severe pain that interferes with work, school, or daily activities is not normal. Endometriosis is one of the most common causes of debilitating menstrual pain.

Women experiencing severe cramps, nausea, vomiting, or fainting during their periods should seek medical evaluation.

Myth #2: Endometriosis only causes pain during periods

While menstrual pain is common, endometriosis pain is not limited to the menstrual cycle.

Women may experience:

• Chronic pelvic pain

• Pain during intercourse

• Pain during bowel movements or urination

• Lower back pain

• Pain between periods

Some women even experience persistent daily pain.

Myth #3: Pregnancy cures endometriosis

A common myth is that having a baby will cure the condition.

Pregnancy may temporarily improve symptoms due to hormonal changes, but it is not a cure. For many women, symptoms return after pregnancy.

Endometriosis is a chronic condition that often requires ongoing management.

Myth #4: Endometriosis always causes infertility

While endometriosis can affect fertility, many women with the condition conceive naturally.

However, the disease can sometimes interfere with fertility by causing:

• Inflammation in the pelvis

• Scarring of the fallopian tubes

• Ovarian cysts known as endometriomas

Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can improve reproductive outcomes.

Myth #5: If scans are normal, nothing is wrong

Many women with endometriosis are told that their ultrasound or imaging is normal.

The reality is that endometriosis lesions are often too small to be detected on routine imaging. Diagnosis frequently requires careful clinical assessment and sometimes minimally invasive surgery.

Because of this, the average time to diagnosis globally is estimated to be seven to 10 years.

Myth #6: Endometriosis only affects older women

Endometriosis can affect teenagers and young women, sometimes shortly after the onset of menstruation.

Young women with severe period pain should not simply be told to “tough it out”. Early recognition and management can significantly improve quality of life.

When should you see a gynaecologist?

Women should seek medical advice if they experience:

• Severe menstrual pain

• Pain during intercourse

• Chronic pelvic pain

• Heavy periods

• Difficulty becoming pregnant

• Persistent fatigue related to menstrual symptoms

Early consultation with an experienced gynaecologist can help identify the cause and begin appropriate treatment.

Breaking the silence

Endometriosis is a real and often debilitating condition, but awareness is improving. By challenging common myths and encouraging open discussion, more women can receive timely diagnosis and care.

Pain should never be dismissed as simply “part of being a woman”. Listening to our bodies and seeking professional evaluation when symptoms arise is an important step toward better reproductive health.

Dr Daryl Daley, JP is a cosmetic gynaecologist and obstetrician. He is located at 3D Gynaecology Limited, 23 Tangerine Place, Kingston 10. Feel free to contact Dr Daley at ddaley@3dgynae.com.

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