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Are You at Risk for Endometriosis?

Endometriosis is caused when the lining of the uterus grows outside of the uterus, which causes pain. The pain gets worse during your periods. Women in their 30s and 40s are more likely to get endometriosis.

Endometriosis can make it more difficult to get pregnant; however, there are several treatment options to help manage symptoms and improve your chances of getting pregnant.

According to WomensHealth.gov, symptoms of endometriosis can include:

  • Pain. Pain is the most common symptom and can include painful menstrual cramps that get worse over time, chronic pain in the lower back and pelvis, pain during or after sex, intestinal pain, painful bowel movements, or pain when urinating during your period. In some cases, you may find blood in your stool or urine.
  • Bleeding or spotting between periods.
  • Infertility or difficulty getting pregnant.
  • Digestive issues or stomach problems, including diarrhea, constipation, bloating, or nausea—especially during your periods.

 

Who Gets Endometriosis?

While endometriosis can affect any woman who has gotten her period, it is more common in women in their 30s and 40s.

It may be more common for women who have:

  • Never had children.
  • Menstrual periods that last more than seven days.
  • Short menstrual cycles (27 days or fewer).
  • A family member (mother, aunt, sister) with endometriosis.
  • A health problem that blocks the normal flow of menstrual blood from your body during your period.

According to WomensHealth.gov, endometriosis can also be linked to other illnesses, including:

  • Allergies, asthma, and chemical sensitivities.
  • Autoimmune diseases, in which the body's system that fights illness attacks itself instead. These can include multiple sclerosis, lupus, and some types of hypothyroidism.
  • Chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia.
  • Certain cancers, such as ovarian and breast cancer.

 

For more information on these connections and for further resources, click here, or contact Carrie Snyder, the Beebe Women's Health Nurse Navigator, at (844) 316-3330, or email [email protected].