When celebrated media personality Njambi Koikai revealed that she had been battling endometriosis for 19 years, it got everyone asking what that animal was.
It surprised many how one would suffer for so long without proper diagnosis. But just so that it doesn't get you by surprise, check out these telltale signs of endometriosis. You could save a life somewhere.
1. Frequent visits to the bathroom
While frequent urination could result from other infections such as a UTI, it's also a symptom of endometriosis when accompanied by other symptom. If you are in doubts, always visit the doctor to rule out any diseases and give medication if necessary.
2. Painful intercourse
Vaginal infections and lack of lubrication could lead to painful penetration. However, if deep penetration is the problem you are having, it could be endometriosis. According to Women's Health, deep penetration exerts pressure on the ligaments holding the uterus in place causing pain.
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3. Heavy periods
Extremely heavy periods with clots on the period blood could also be a sign of endometriosis. When menstruating, the endometrial growth reacts to menstrual hormones from the ovaries just like the uterus does. So, they grow and bleed as well. As the growths grow bigger, they can bleed even more.
4. Your PMS takes longer
Ordinarily, you start feeling your PMS signs few days to your periods and they end when your period ends. With endometriosis, you could start experiencing the PMS feelings weeks before your periods and it lasts way longer after your period is gone.
5. Terrible cramps
There are probably no better words to express how severe the cramps can be when the actual problem is endometriosis. The lower abdomen and lower back are too painful to let you do a thing besides lying down.
6. Difficulties conceiving
As per The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, almost 40% of women battling infertility have endometriosis. This is because the inflammation from endometriosis may interfere with the movement of the egg and the sperm through the fallopian tubes and the uterus.
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If you experience these symptoms, consider visiting your gynecologist to rule out the possibility of endometriosis.