1 in 10 menstruating people. That is the striking figure for endometriosis. Long ignored, labeled an "imaginary disease" or "normal painful periods," it is finally being recognized.
But concretely, what happens in the body? Why does it hurt elsewhere than in the uterus? Here is the guide to understanding the mechanisms of this complex inflammatory disease.
Article Summary
1- What is endometriosis? (Simple mechanics)
The endometrium is the tissue that lines the inside of the uterus. Every month, it thickens to accommodate a potential pregnancy. If there is no fertilization, it breaks down and bleeds: this is the period.
The anomaly:
In endometriosis, tissue similar to the endometrium grows outside the uterus. It can be found on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, bladder, or even the intestines.
The problem:
These lesions react to the cycle's hormones like the normal endometrium. During the period, they also bleed. Except that this blood has nowhere to go. It stagnates, irritates neighboring organs, creates cysts and adhesions (the organs stick together). This is what causes the intense pain.
2- The unmistakable symptoms
Endometriosis pain is not "just a period cramp". It is often disabling. Here are the warning signs:
- Severe dysmenorrhea: Periods that leave you bedridden, resistant to standard painkillers.
- Dyspareunia: Deep pain during or after sexual intercourse.
- Digestive or urinary issues: Pain when having a bowel movement or urinating, especially during periods (the famous "Endo belly" or bloated stomach).
- Chronic pain: Sometimes, the pain persists even outside of periods (ovulation, constant pelvic pain).
3- Why does the diagnosis take so long?
It takes an average of 7 years to diagnose endometriosis. Why?
- Trivialization: "It is normal to be in pain" is a phrase heard all too often. No, suffering to the point of missing school or work is not normal.
- Complexity: Lesions cannot always be seen on a standard ultrasound. A pelvic MRI interpreted by an expert radiologist is often required.
👉 Think you might be affected? Talk to a specialist or an association like EndoFrance. And discover our article on new avenues of research (Fusobacterium bacteria).
