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20 Associated Symptoms of Endometriosis.

Here are some distinct associated symptoms of Endometriosis that many women share.  You may not have all of the symptoms, but if you have at least 7 of them, it is worth researching the topic further.

  1. Period Pain

Period pain is the most obvious symptom of Endometriosis. The pain will be severe on the first two days and will not go away with a pain killer or two. Your period pain will most likely be accompanied by digestive problems, emotional mood swings and irritability. Some women get such severe pain that they cannot walk or go to work. When the pain occurs every month, it is not normal. Women with Endometriosis often experience longer or heavier periods.  However, the latter is not always a definite indicator of Endometriosis, since some women who have Endometriosis experience very little bleeding.

  1. Digestive issues

When we first go to the doctor with “lower abdominal pain”, their first point of reference is likely to be our digestion. When they ask us the questions, “What is your digestion like? Do you have diarrhoea? Constipation? Cramping?”, we might reply, “Well, yes we do…. all of the above.”  The difficulty with diagnosis is that these digestive problems they are often interlinked with Endometriosis and other digestive issues. One of the ways to work out if the source of pain comes from Endometriosis or digestive issues is by looking at the hormone fluctuations. We have extreme diarrhoea or constipation just before or during our period. Our digestion is closely linked to our hormones, so these two are interlinked.  This article will help your digestion immediately.

  1. Lower Back Pain

This isn’t always a definite symptom but definitely worth a mention as many women suffer from lower back pain and don’t make the connection to Endometriosis. Endometriosis can develop in the lower area of the pelvic area and settle in the Pouch of Douglas. This area is situated very closely to the nerves on the lower back and can therefore cause lower back pain. This can lead to pain running down the legs and hip area.

  1. Feeling Emotional

PMS is one of the signs of Endometriosis but generally we have more severe PMS.  We experience extreme emotional ups and downs. It can be so extreme that it causes friends to leave, boyfriends to break up with us and all sorts of nasty results. We feel everything in extremes – extreme anger, extreme depression, extreme happiness. These emotions are not limited to the first week of our period. They can occur at any time, for no logical reason (until you make a note of them and notice the trends).

  1. Back ache and tension in the shoulders

The upper area of your back is likely to tense up and become stiff, especially around your period. There are a number of theories to explain these symptoms, but many believe it has to do with a lack of minerals which your body requires during your monthly cycle and  which are drawn from other parts of the body, such as Magnesium.

  1. Feeling cold often

This is based on a Traditional Chinese Theory that women who have Endometriosis have “caught the cold or damp” in their body. They believe by chasing out the cold from the body we can heal the Endometriosis. One of the symptoms I noticed was that I get cold easily and that my feet are often cold, even in summer. It is not a definite symptom, but it does show an imbalance in the body, which should get some attention. This can also be attributed to a close correlation with Thyroid imbalances in women with Endometriosis.

  1. Nausea

I personally don’t experience much of this symptom anymore, but I remember when my Endometriosis was extremely bad, I would feel nauseous on the day of my period or a few days before. I would literally get sick to feel better. It was bad during the month too, especially when I was younger, in my teens. I would struggle to eat anything without feeling somewhat ill or queasy afterwards.

  1. The love of sugar

A strong dependence on sugar is a big symptom. I noticed this once I went off sugar and realised my addiction to it. I didn’t think I could live without sugar and when I did, I would get incredibly depressed. I felt  hollow as though something major had happened in my life. I was incredibly dependent. Women with Endometriosis often express this love of sugar. I think it has to do with wanting to boost our energy levels but it is often an emotional comfort food.

  1. Sore Breasts

Having sore breasts a few days before your period is due is also quite common with women who have Endometriosis. It can be so severe that you can’t stand the idea of walking anywhere.  Sore breasts are caused by water retention in the body. Cutting out coffee is one of the easiest remedies to get rid of sore breasts.

  1. Headaches, Migraines

Headaches are a sign from your body that is it not entirely happy with you. If you get them on a constant basis, this is a sign that you should listen to your body and change something! Both headaches and migraines are closely linked to hormone imbalances in the body.

  1. Feeling tired when you get up in the morning

You should feel rested when you get up, right? When you have Endometriosis, it is common to feel tired often and it is especially hard to get up in the mornings. This is because the body is still working through toxins in the liver.

  1. Other inflammations in the body

Endometriosis is an inflammatory condition. This means that the body is essentially in “repair mode”. The body will often display other inflammatory conditions in other areas of the body, such as an inflamed bladder, called Interstitial Cystitis. Other areas of inflammation can include your gums, your bowel and any organ that can become easily inflamed.

  1. Poor skin health

No matter what cleanser you buy or how hard you try, your skin is still breaking out! You try natural things, you try stronger things and yet somehow your skin is never perfectly clear. The skin is a natural toxin releaser of the body. Endometriosis is closely linked to toxins in the body. When our skin is unhealthy, it shows imbalances and toxins that are residing in the body. Please note: there are heaps of reasons why one can have poor skin, but it is common for women with Endometriosis to have poor skin.

  1. Puffy eyes or eye troubles

I never made the connection that gritty and sore eyes are related to Endometriosis until recently. It is only now that my condition is a lot better that I recognise this as a symptom. Puffy eyes are also a sign of toxins residing in the liver. They can be an indicator of gluten intolerance too. Our eyes are incredibly sensitive and show us so much about our state of health!

  1. Allergies

It is common for women who have Endometriosis to also suffer from allergies, including an itchy nose, sore or watery eyes and an itchy throat. This is yet another overreaction by the body to defend you. Women with Endometriosis generally have a lowered immune system, which is the same reason we get allergies.

  1. Pain during sex

This is one of the first symptoms I recognised as being related to Endometriosis as you can feel it instantly. It is a dull ache for me but for many women it can be quite severe and they can also experience it afterwards, in waves of cramping pain. There are ways to alleviate tenderness during sex.

  1. Bladder infections

It is common with Endometriosis sufferers to have an inflamed bladder and thereby also getting frequent bladder infections. If you are having bladder infections more than 3 times in a 6-month period, this could be a sign of Endometriosis. I use a completely natural product for my bladder infections. No more antibiotics!

  1. Bloating in the abdominal area

This is obviously going to be one of those symptoms that could be part of many other conditions, but with Endometriosis it feels like you permanently have this extra weight sitting in your abdominal cavity. You try and go to the toilet to get it out, but it is permanently there! Your abdomen feels swollen and sore. It can be only at certain times of the month, but many women with Endometriosis have this feeling on a permanent basis.

  1. Thyroid Conditions

It appears that many of us with Endometriosis have an underactive thyroid function. This is also largely connected to the liver and hormones. I have written a few articles on the potential connection to thyroid health. You can read about the possible connection to thyroid health in this article.

  1. Frequent Thrush or Candida Symptoms

Do you have a constant issue with thrush or candida? Have you experienced thrush in the past?  You could have underlying candida with endometriosis.

 

These are the 20 associated symptoms I have recognised through my own journey with Endometriosis and which many of my clients experience as well. If there are any symptoms I haven’t mentioned, feel free to share yours in the comments below.

 

I know you can resolve so much of this by looking after your body holistically. Join us by signing up below to find out more…

 

Hugs, Melissa x
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This Post Has 369 Comments

  1. Heather

    Thankyou so much for sharing your story with us. I have endometriosis also and I am unable to conceive. It’s a very depressing disease to live with. You feel like you are the only one dealing with such pain and emotion. It helps a lot hearing your story and the story of others to know that I am not alone. Thankyou.

  2. Laura

    Oh my goodness!
    I honestly felt like you were writing about me! I have coped with very similar symptoms over the last three years and it’s really gotten me down. Thank you for writing this. Things seem even clearer now! 🙂

  3. Melissa

    It sounds like the pill isn’t agreeing with you. Try natural contraception instead. It is far healthier and you won’t experience any side-effects.

  4. Melissa

    It sounds to me like you are experiencing some other reason for pain, along with the endo. Look at cutting out gluten and dairy and see if you can ease the pain sweetheart.

  5. Melissa

    So sorry to hear you experienced so much pain. Are you okay now?

  6. Melissa

    I Bee and so sorry you are experiencing this pain. I would explore physical therapy, an osteopath or chiropractor first and then look at doing some exercises to support your body. Sideways movements, where you hold the body up are incredibly good for loosening hip pain. Yoga and Pilates would be incredibly powerful for you.

  7. Melissa

    My heart goes out to you too sweetheart.
    It definitely sounds like your liver is struggling and unfortunately tests only reveal things when they are really bad. I would explore ways of detoxing the liver and eating a very clean diet. Also, make sure you are avoiding gluten-containing foods. Bread, cakes and baked goods would certainly be a potential contributor to some of the symptoms you have described. Try avoiding all of these foods, including pasta and soy sauce, some spices that contain wheat for a month and see if you feel better. I noticed a significant change when I eliminated gluten from my diet. It can be the reason for the hot/cold feeling as it affects your thyroid – which is likely running low – also known as hypothyroidism.
    Eating large amounts of sugars and wheat will also trigger the thrush you have described.
    My recommendations:
    Eat mostly greens, avoid any grains and gluten-containing foods for a few months
    Drink a vegetable juice daily
    Avoid alcohol and painkillers as much as possible
    Take up exercise where you sweat or go for regular sauna’s to encourage sweating

    I know you can get better hun because I used to get many of the symptoms you are describing and managed to get my life back.

    Hugs,

    Melissa

  8. Melissa

    Hi Jillian,

    My heart goes out to you sweetheart. I would explore the idea of food sensitivities and definitely look into whether your body is struggling with toxins. Lead and mercury can be a big factor in heavy toxin responses as you have described. Also, naturally look into what you are eating. Sometimes the body can give us this reaction with foods we are sensitive to or have an allergy towards. I have noticed this with dairy and gluten for myself.
    There is a way forward and please know that your body wants to heal.

    Hugs,

    Melissa

  9. Karina

    I would suggest getting a second opinion for sure.

  10. Karina Foster

    When you see your primary doctor ask for a referral to a gynocologist. They can do a pelvic ultrasound. I saw my primary doctor yesterday and he sent referral and told them to get me in as soon as possible.

    I have bad chest pain. Passing out multiple times a day everyday since November 17th. Until this article I didn’t know what could be wrong. Neither have all the doctors I have seen.

    My legs have been jerking, I call them seizures. Think all this could be due to endometriosis.

    I had an abdominal hysterectomy in December 2011 due to endometriosis. In February of 2011 I had a right ovarian cyst. Had that ovary taken out. Then in 2015 I had my left ovary taken out due to another ovarian cyst. Get checked out. Don’t settle for less than answers.

  11. karina foster

    I have 11 of these symptoms. I saw my primary doctor today. He is sending a referral to a gynocologist STAT. I am in so much pain. It hurts doing nothing.

    I had an abdominal hysterectomy in December 2011. I was recently diagnosed with inflamed bladder. I get frequent UTI’s. Like every 2-3 months it seems. I also have had multiple syncope episodes everyday since November 17,2017. I had lots of tests done and no answers.

    Then I click on this article I saw on Facebook. This explains what I am going through. Is nice to have answers. Thanks so much for writing this and sharing the information with us all.

  12. Jillian

    Hello again…

    My name is Jill, i wrote the last comment. I forgot to add that it is debilitating feeling this way. It’s not only around my period time, either. But it’s become so bad, i haven’t been able to work. I’ve just become so weak, along with the seizures, my body never feels good anymore, or right.

    I need desperately to get back to being me. I’m so afraid that won’t ever happen. I just turned 29 this year, and I’m just afraid it is something else that is even worse than endo.

    And again, my heart goes out to all of you brave, wonderful women managing this disease. Suffering like this every day – it makes you a soldier. Or a cowboy. Whichever you prefer ?

    I just really need to know if this could possibly be Endo…
    I just don’t know if it can make you feel so…almost poisoned.

    It’s kindnof like how you feel when you have a hangover, and you need to get toxins out of your body, ill…but times a MILLION. And nothing, absolutely nothing helps.
    has anyone experienced that, along with their body heating up, head sweating, and followed by chills?

  13. Anonymous

    Greetings ladies,
    I am reaching out to everyone in a great deal of desperation. I have been suffering for the last four years. With a SEVERE feeling of being so ill that i absolutely cannot take it, that comes and goes and varies in severity. It start d four years ago, but has greatly progressed since.

    My lower back pain also began four years ago and i just attributed it to working – lifting bags of flour, being on my feet for 8 hrs a night in a bakery…

    Only the illness got worse, and the pain progressed until about two years ago, it became a stabbing pain in my sides, mostly in my right side. Under my ribs, that spreads around to my back, runs down my side in front and back, and sometimes goes upbetween my shoulder blades.

    It varies in severity – between being stabbing, coming in waves. Or being a very bad aching that leaves me unable to do much of anything at all.

    I’ve also had thrush and ongoing yeast infections, I’m extremely fatigued to the point of wanting to sleep all day, almost impossible to get up bc of how bad i feel.

    My skin has always been blvry clear, but has become full of bumps and marks within the last year. I’ve noticed that my feet and lower legs are always cold, even though my face, hands, and head are almost always hot and sweaty, followed by chills – even in the summer. Winter. Doesn’t make a difference…i can’t regulate my body temp anymore.

    I’ve also began having seizures – mini and grand maul. Whether it’s connected or not i don’t know…

    But I’ve spent the last four years convinced that i am dying of liver disease bc of how violently ill i get. Because of how bad the pain is – and despite the tests they’ve run – cat scans and abdominal ultrasounds – they’ve only found a cyst on my ovary so far.

    The doctors haven’t been taking me seriously. Even though they’ve seen my doubles over in pain, sweating, crying, begging and telling them i cannot live this way anymore!

    I’m afraid for my life, and although i don’t want to have this disease – i would rather have this than liver failure…as I’ve had trouble with opiates in the past as I’ve not known what to do for my pain , so i had self medicated bc no one will help me or take me seriously…and it has been four years now!

    I also was diagnosed with IC at the age of 18.

    I don’t know what to do anymore, do you think it is possible to have endo?

    Please let me know, and please let me know what you would tell your dr bc i am about to see her again…she is just a primary dr, not an gynecologist.

    I forgot to mention that my periods had been regular my whole lift up until about a year ago. They’re never predictable, and they’re always heavy. The cramps have become very painful when they never before were…

    This last period, I’d just found out about the cyst, and i had more pain than I’d ever had – except the last time i had a cyst rupture. Since then I’ve been in so much pain and have been feeling so ill, i just don’t know what to do.

    Please, any advice – i need some desperately.

    I love all of you ladies so much, and i like I knup to all of you. Have so much sympathy for what you’re all going through and my heart goes out to you all.

    I pray we will all find answers.
    Much love to everyone.

    ?
    Please, i need your opinions – could this be endo?

  14. Anita Frank

    hi, I am 41 and have suffered from candida or many years now. I am vey sensitive to the cold. The last year and a half I have experienced some nights sweats leading up to my period. The last few months I have experienced flu like symptoms feeling a little achey, tired, sometimes a sore throat and cough and a general feeling of un wellness. Also some nausea. I have also been treated for an underachieve thyroid since I was 22

  15. Eugenia

    Hi…. I have Endo & my doc want me to get a hysterectomy.I am 40 and so scared

  16. Jamiela

    I went to a herbalist and he told me to change my diet and it helps

  17. Heather A

    Hi I’m 33 years old and was diagnosed with endometriosis last year.I first went to the ER after I had sex and couldn’t move after as the pain on my right side was so horrible.I went to my obgyn who thought it was a cyst and to come back in 6 weeks for a sonogram.I then went back to the ER 3 more times because nothing would prevent or help the severe pain.The ER docts did compare the Sonos w the previous ones and said the cyst was much larger.They contacted my obgyn and got me a sooner appt.I agreed to get surgery to remove it.When my doctor opened me up she said the cyst was gone or very small but found endometriosis tissue build up.She removed the growth.The recovery process was also horrible.I was so sorry but after a few weeks I felt a lot better.That only lasted a few months and I experienced the same zaps like lighting bolts hitting both sides like on my ovaries.I also have extreme amount of pressure down there.I’ve tried everything for the pain, but the only thing that helps is prescription painkillers.I got a 2nd surgery in Feb and my doctor said she found a few little spots.I decided then to get on the depo shot even though I don’t need it for bc as my tubes are tied.I got my 2nd shot a few weeks ago and my period has stopped but not the pain.All I do when I’m not at work is lay on the couch w my heating pad.My doctor will not prescribe anything for my pain due to the opioid epidemic.I need to find a new obgyn bc I have no history of abusing meds and I don’t feel like she cares or listens.The only other option is a med to put you into menopause.I don’t know what to do.I consider suicide because this is no way to live.Before I was diagnosed I had heavy painful periods that lasted 7-8 days at a time.Even though I don’t have a period now I have constant lower back pain and pelvic pain.I feel bad for my bf cuz I’m always in pain so we rarely have sex.I don’t understand how my obgyn cannot prescribe me something to help deal with this throbbing pain and I have a diagnosis.The doctors maybe not all but most do not listen to women’s symptoms or concerns.I probably had Endo for years and just was brushed off.Something has to be done about this.Women in pain should not be treated as drug seekers or druggies.I don’t know how much longer I can live like this…It’s too much.I don’t wish this condition upon anyone.

  18. Kamilla

    I’ve had a hysterectomy a year and three months ago. I’m 34 years old. I was able to conceive after a laporascopy at the age of 29. I had a stage 4 endometriosis. I’ve had horrible periods since day one, but it never even crossed my mind to ask anyone about it. I thought it was just a part of being a woman. Anyway, hysterectomy didn’t take care of it. I only fought a break for about 3 months. I’m pretty much disabled from the pain right now. I don’t have the guts to go for lupron or remove my ovaries. I’m not ready for a menopause. I’m in such confusion. I hope yours is not so bad. Gotta say that every specialist u went to thinks that Endo is back, but the surgeon who did my hysterectomy says it’s not back. I can tell that it is and full force too. I’m so sorry for every one of us. I hope they can find a cure for this sometime soon.

  19. Emma N Sanford

    I haven’t been diagnosed with endometriosis but I HONESTLY think I have it. When I was younger I would have SEVERE lower back pain as in I would cry and not be able to move it hurt so bad. Can you out grow that symptom i took birth control too because of my periods.

  20. Melissa

    It could be a side-effect of the pill sweetheart.

  21. Layla

    Hi I’m a 16 year old female, I have endometriosis. I’m on the pill and I have been bleeding for 19 days straight, bad cramps and very tired and have no energy. What’s wrong with me???

  22. Layla

    Hi I’m 16 year old female, I have endometriosis. I’m on the pill and I have been bleeding for 19 days straight, bad cramps and very tired and have no energy. What’s wrong with me???

  23. Dana Sandoval Vaughan

    Dear Samantha,
    You wrote in Feb and its April now so my hope is you found help already… but if not my suggestion is this – you make an appointment with an OB/GUN who states they are endo knowledgeable and/or does laparoscopic surgery. I’m willing to bet you have endo based on your description of your symptoms but the ONLY way to confirm endo is thru a visual check when they look inside. There are a few other things that could be going on with you but at the very least they should be doing blood work to check things. My first clue was the age at which this nightmare started for you and the severity you describe and the ER visits. Its likely you are experiencing cysts on your ovaries those months that get trapped by or made worse by your endo. I went thru getting terribly violently ill every month as a teen but as I ovulated so docs were just mystified. I mean they would shoot me with tranquilizers and it would not stop the vomiting and pain. In college, the lowest dose of estrogen based birth control low estren saved me but I like you am allergic to 90% of all hormone related solutions because my endo is estrogen sensitive meaning it is so severe it carries a high amount of estrogen in it and super produces estrogen so adding hormones to it is like pouring gas on a fire. There are breast cancer strains that work similarly to this so think of it like those. I have a very very rare very severe case of endo though, the onset was in my teens and not only went unchecked into my 30’s but we made the horrible mistake if doing infertility treatments on me month after month after month after my lap surgery to remove the worst of my endo. I took estrogen shots and syranel and all sorts of hormones activators and things that only made it worse because they knew it would be hard for me to get pregnant. I am now 46 and never did get pregnant and still suffer terribly from my endo because it penetrated my uterus walls from the outside inward and I have edema or swelling in both legs and numbness in my left foot. But, I am endo’s worst case.We can learn so much from me! Its so important you go and get diagnosed. It will help you decide how to procede so that you can conceive – most endo women do go on to conceive! And there are lots of good things to help pain and suffering. Some are actual pain relief meds taken in a controlled and responsible way and I am here to tell you that they worlds leading endo surgeons will tell you first hand, our disease can be the most painful thing on earth meriting good and many times strong pain control. But its so important to know if your case necesitates that and balance that with all the great other tools available. In addition to real pain meds taken in a very controlled and monitored enviroment and they havent needed to be increased in ten years… I use a TENS unit electro stimunlation on my nerve areas, yoga, heat pad, essential oils, massage, diet control like removal of sugar best I can, accupuncture… there is an endless list of things that can help relieve you in partnership with meds that will give you your life back, if your case merits that. Many women after a debulking lapro surgery never pain control meds. Your ob can also help you try to conceive at the best possible time in the most effective way to take advantage of your age and control of your endo if they find you have it. IVF immediately has been shown to be most effective for endo women who didnt conceive naturally in a reasonable amount of time. I did 10 inseminations instead and all that time my endo wad flaring. Samantha, your case is unlikely to be anything like mine, I published this to be beneficial to other women as well, so they get help as soon as possible. I will be excited to see what the author of this page offers about hormonal balance because endo patients tend to have a lot of estrogen and is why we are always feeling so cold, so bringing us back to balance could be an important and effective remedy. Its probably why in my twenties a very very lose does bc pill kept my endo at bay. Good luck with everything and trust me you will be feeling better as soon as you find an effective ob/gyn and pain doctor to help you. – Be well, Dana

  24. Kristina Mcgaw

    I do get all these symptoms but doctors tell its fibroid or it’s a cyst I feel extremely bloated every day even after I ate or drink sleep a lot pee a lot back pain breast pain really uncomfortable unexpected period just confuse any one can tell me what’s happening

  25. Sarah dodds

    I have been having these problems that seem to be getting worse every time, it started last year about october… I went to doctors today with no joy was told to come back if it got worse just like they did in october

  26. Anonymous

    Ive recently read an article says a hystetectomy doesnt work. Only the end of menopause.

  27. Samantha

    Mine do not listen either. 12 years of this and still no answers. I have yet to be taken seriously and I fear for my fertility. My husband and I have been trying to conceive for a few years.

  28. Samantha

    unfortunately ultrasounds do not often catch endometriosis. You may have to have exploratory surgery to diagnose it. I feel that is what is needed for myself. I cannot get my doctors to listen to me. I hope you get an answer soon, this is an awful thing to have to live with. Statistically, most women live with it for 7-10 years or more before being diagnosed. Many doctors are also highly unaware of its severity and what to look for (as well as when and how) don’t give up, stay active in being your own health advocate.

  29. Samantha

    I have been dealing with these symptoms for years. Since I was 14, I’m now 25. I have excruciating cramps, diarrhea for the first 2-3 days, severe back pain, and sciatica down my left leg. My hips always hurt. My cycles are pretty irregular. I have been to several different doctors and had multiple ultrasounds with no answers. All any of them do is tell me I’ll grow out of, or it’s normal to have some pain. They do not listen when I explain that I cannot take birth control, nor do I want to, as my husband and I are TTC. I’m allergic to high doses of estrogen in birth control and break out in hives as well as feel like I have the flu. One Dr finally suggested that I have endo, but then I moved. I feel like not a single person is actively listening to my symptoms, nor do they take me seriously. I have been to the ER 3 times because of the amount of pain I endure. I’m trying so hard to be an advocate for my own health, but the Drs won’t listen. I feel increasingly alone and depressed with each cycle. I don’t have, nor can I afford, health insurance. One Dr told me I can take up to 800 mg of Ibuprofen at a time, as if I haven’t already been using OTC pain medications. I’ve tried everything. Tylenol, Motrin, Aleve, Advil, Pamprin, Midol… They have tried to prescribe me Tramadol, but it knocks me out for 16 hours straight. I have told them this, yet they keep trying to give it to me. I tell them that I need something that will let me function throughout the day, not keep me passed out. I cannot work through it, and I cannot afford a drs note every month. Idk what to do anymore. I feel so helpless.

  30. Lucy

    Thank you so much for this informative article and sharing your personal experience. I have most of the symptoms you mentioned in varying degrees. My last period knocked me for six and I couldn’t move for two days. I also have a diagnosed thyroid condition. I constantly feel like I’m getting sick and even though I’m on the right meds for my thyroid condition I still can’t get out of bed in the mornings. My boyfriend says he has to check my pulse to make sure I’m still conscious before he leaves for work. I also follow the autoimmune paleo diet for my thyroid condition so am doing all I can to be healthy and feel good. I don’t seem to be making any progress and can relate it all back to my periods and ovulation. In the past when I’ve seen the dr the symptoms have been lumped in with my thyroid condition. Recently I have been to see a dr again about it and she asked me what my symptoms were and when I told her she said “classic period pains I’m afraid” as if I have hadn’t been having a period for the past 22 years. She has blamed my copper coil and wants me to go on the Mirena. I have a scan booked for the end of Feb. My fear is that it won’t show anything because it’s not the right tool for diagnosis and my drs also did not diagnose my thyroid problem. I had to go private in the end for diagnosis and appropriate medication. I have no trust in the NHS for this sort of thing. It may be my copper coil but it doesn’t explain a lot of the symptoms. I hope I get some answers soon! ?

  31. Erin

    Thanks for this. I have a lot of these symptoms and have for years. I’m 27 and going for a bunch of ultrasounds soon.
    I went to have one about 6 months ago at my local GUM clinic as I thought my copper IUD might be out of place.
    The ultrasound showed a 4cm cyst which the doctor said was quite normal for someone my age and didn’t seem concerned. When I mentioned my bowel problems he didn’t see a connection.
    After bringing this up with my GP (who I’m seeing for anxiety/depression related issues), she has requested some scans to see what is going on.
    I really hope they can diagnose Endo or something: I’ve had mood problems as long as I remember but the severe pain and digestive issues didn’t become obvious until around 6+ years ago (after coming off combined pill most likely).
    I have severe IBS related problems which have improved a bit since I cut out dairy.
    Constant tiredness, hot/cold flashes, infrequent severe disabling pain, lower back pain, cold extremeties (feet turning blue since I hit puberty), headaches and mood swings throughout the luteal phase of my cycle.
    Anyway, thankyou. Anyone who thinks they have these issues bring it up with your GP and don’t stop badgering until they do something!

  32. Brandi

    How do u get a doctor to listen .every month I suffer and I’m getting worse as the months go by.

  33. Melissa

    Yes, unfortunately, endometriosis can still develop even after a hysterectomy.

  34. angela lacorte

    I have most of these symptoms but I had a hysterectomy years ago. Still have my ovaries. I’m 59. Can I still get endometriosis. Which I was told I cannot

  35. sarah hall

    Good day, my name is sarah and I have experienced all the things for years now, with no reprieve. I was wondering if anyone has every experienced pnes or pyschogeneic seizures with endo? I have gotten so much worse since thse have started. Thank you

  36. Melissa

    Hugs sweetheart. Know that you can find answers 🙂

  37. Andrea Hinojosa

    I have all those symptoms when I start my breast are sore I can’t walk my whole body hurts my lower back and upper back I have really bad pain on my lower abdomen and it shoots down to my legs making it impossible to walk. And vomiting . And it lasts the whole time I’m on my cycle.

  38. Cassie

    Actually, bladder infections aren’t associated with endometriosis. However, there is a common link between endo and interstitial cystitis; about 50% of women with Endo have IC as well.

  39. Diana

    I learned so much sounds like me I no how you feel can’t take it any more. I well make a Dr.s appointment wish me luck see many Dr. in my time and never found anything HELP.

  40. Melissa

    It could possibly be a factor for some women. I would recommend getting yourself checked out by a doctor though.

  41. Melissa

    Hugs Madison and so sorry it has taken you going on the “doctor merry-go-round” to figure things out. I hope you can find some relief. There is free Kickstarter program which can help you get on the right track but feel free to reach out if you have questions.

  42. Kelly

    Hello ladies. I have a history of endometriosis and ovarian cysts. I lost one ovary as a result. I am wondering if endo could cause your menstrual cycle to suddenly stop. My periods were always very regular until last October. I have not had any bleeding. At all. Last period was September and it was normal. Any thoughts?

  43. Madison

    I am 19 btw.

  44. Madison

    Ive been dealing with nearly everything i read on this and i have been feeling so lost not knowing whats wrong with me, and this might be the moment I can finally stop feeling miserable. Im making a doc appt. asap to get things figured out. Ive spent years trying to find whats wrong with me. Doctor to doctor. This might be my start at not constantly being ill.

  45. Melissa

    Hi Sweetheart,
    I would go and see an Arvigo Massage Therapist as they can often feel what is going on. It could also be adhesions that are causing the pain but if it is, the Arvigo therapist can help with this for sure.

  46. Amanda

    I am 22 years old and had intercouse for the first time unprotected. I got tested for everything and nothing showed. I first got a uti no culture. I have been having intense pressure right below my undie line that whole strip he is very hard. I am having constant severe lower back. I had symptoms of belly stinging and pulling. The surgeon did me a laparascopy and found two small patches of endo. One was in my pouch of douglas but it said on the report focal calcification. So is that still endometriosis? After the surgery I am feeling way worse. The surgeon didn’t do me a hysteroscopy because he saw that my hymen was still intact. I have been worried so my surgeon did me a transvaginal ultrasound and felt tender points and said that I hve adenmyoisis. I dkn if he is just saying that because he is just annoyed from me. I just have this constant pressure and I am scared it’s PID in my uterus. I got tested for everything though and nothing showed except a bit of candida. Help please!!

  47. Amy

    I’m 26 by the way .

  48. Amy

    Hi everyone , every woman who has posted on this my heart goes out to you. I have had issues for about 11 years now , pain, intercpuse pain, pain before I orgasm, pain with tampon , irregular bleeding ( sometimes up to 5 months apart) prolonged bleeding (for up to 3 months ) , pelvic pain, shoulder pain back pain, cysts,trouble walking. Etc…. Blah blah the list goes on am I right ladies ? Finally I found a doctor and GYOB I trust. TRUST and they listen , that’s what’s important . diagnosed with endometriosis, I have an MRI coming up before a lap just to check everything . But ladies , if your doctor ain’t listening , walk away and find a new one . that is the best possible advice , take care of you.

  49. Kelly

    I am 33 and I am also iron deficient anemic so the periods are heavier and I stay cold 99% of the time. My iron levels usually range from 7-9 which I do go for regular IV iron infusions. But, I use tampons because pads break me out and I have to get TWO BOXES OF SUPER PLUS to last me my cycle because it is so extremely heavy. I am exhausted in the mornings, my hip, back, and leg pain is so severe EVERYDAY I have my cycle, that it feels like I am breaking in half. I have constant migraines which I was diagnosed with when I was 13-14 years old, I do not have very many times where sex it painful but do bloat extremely bad, I have diarrhea many times with pms, I have the extreme mood swings, pain to walk, sit, or stand and no, over the counter medicine only reduces the pain by no more than 25%, I get so acry and tense in my shoulders, sugar is my best friend during this time because it does make you relax, ect. I have asked doctors time and time again to check for that and they always have excuses as to why I don’t have it instead of trusting my feelings and take precautions to mark it off the list. One of the main excuses is that they think I am too young. I will be 34 in May and I have birthed two sons and I have heard that endometriosis appears more often in a woman if she has had children and all the scar tissue and cysts…I don’t know what to do or who to talk to but I have got to something. I hurthink so bad and literally can’t hardly do anything while having it. It affects my life on a daily basis.Self treatment is not helping. I have tried everything I possibly can..

  50. S

    Did you find out what it is?
    I have the same pain you describe and haven’t found relief or answers.

    Hope you’re feeling better!

  51. Maham

    Where do you live? You should try to go see an endometriosis specialist just to rule it out. I was going to a great OBGYN for almost two years and she misdiagnosed me and put me on the pill. When I got off the pill a lil under a year of getting married my symptoms had gotten worse. My work life went down the toilet. I couldn’t sit or drive and was in crazy pain. I went to one of the best endo specialist (Bc I had gooogled my symptoms like crazy and discovered this disease) I could find and after doing the tests and surgery I was diagnosed with a complicated case and stage 4 endo. I just had the surgury and barely have my life back together. I’m praying the doc was able to save my reproductive organs Bc I don’t have kids yet. It’s a crazy scary disease and so often missed or misdiagnosed. Don’t trust an obgyn no matter how good unless they are and endo specialist. I hope this helps you!!

  52. Shakthi

    Hi I’m 23 years old. I found that my lower abdomen center is bloating and feels hard when I press I feels pain . My period is normal and every time I feels like gas is discharging from anus while pooping.can you tell me is there any serious problem?

  53. Katharine

    Useful by typing symptoms in Google that there is a diagnosis. I am anemic which I was told does cause heavy periods like mine. The first day I get the horrible painful heavy feeling usually related to diarhea, then the nausea hangs around all day. I can live with it but have to take a sickness tablet from my doctor which helps a lot. I get lower back pain where I take fibrogel in case I have become constipated and I get so incredibly tired when I wake up. I sleep for an hour or so late afternoon and feel angry and tearful. I get mood swings two weeks before and hate it. I am unemployed so this plays havoc with my life. I can go out but not without taking co codamol or use a hot water bottle. My skin breaks out sometimes to spots that stay for two weeks. I am 35 and have never had so much rotten health problems. I suffer from acid reflux so when I get lower back pains and feel cold even when it is sunny outside it does leave me feeling miserable. Good to know others suffer it too.

  54. Irina

    Hello!
    My name is Irina I am 20 and for the last year I kept having problems with my bladder(more specificly the urethra) and my uterus and ovaries. I was diagnosed with recurent bladder infection and IBS.I have went to 4 or 5 gynaechologysts but most of them didn’t even wanted to consult me properly as Im still a virgin but I do stimulate my senses (if I can ..say it that way)for many years. In all this time I did 2 vaginal tests and both of them had E.Coli but it mentioned there were chances that may be false positive.Now with the bladder I had a lot of problems including sudden urinating when exposed to cold weather and a sudden spasmotic pain right in front of the pelvis and I still have that sometimes.
    Last year for a couple of months I had strange periods the blood was brown, thick and smelled horrible.And now in the last 3 months it got delayed every month from 2 to 5 days.The period itself hasnt been quite regular but all gynaechologysts told me that there are just some hormonal changes.Also Ive been having ovary sudden big pain and uterus usually before the period even starts and sometimes it hurts when Im stimulating myself so I stopped doing it
    Im quite confused most of the doctors dont believe me and I might sound crazy saying all of these but I would like to at least exclude endometriosis.Im currently waiting for my period to pass so I can take that vaginal test again although Im scared because last time I did it it hurt very much when it was taken( prelevated?)
    At last, I apologise for my bad english and desorganised words I hope its understandable 🙂

  55. Chelsea

    Hi , I’m 28 now and have every symptom above. I’ve seen very good Gynos and they all said it looks fine down there . What else could it be if I have every symptom and nothing shows up when they exam me? I at times have to leave work when I’m on my period because it gets so painful I have to cry or yell .

  56. Carrie

    I’ve had all but 2 of these symptoms since I started having periods (the waking up started when I was born i think ) BUT,
    I have had enough gynecological exams , plus that ultrasound pelvic exam
    to know now if they haven’t been able to diagnose the this by now, they either never will, or its all in my head or I need better doctors, or to do it myself and fix it lol. I asked for a sex change last exam i had. I was actually 99.9% serious about it.

    However it would be a real shame to change my voice and not be able to sing the same way if I could still sing at all.

  57. Karen

    I have every symptom you talk of and my doctor and gyno say it’s ending and I need a laparoscopy. I ge rib pain. Apparently there’s a new ultrasound that is closer to diagnosing it as usually can’t be diagnosed here ultrasound. Your symptoms aren’t crazy to pour out and all. They are real and I get it. The pain is unbearable and for me it’s all the time.

  58. Jennifer

    I get the exact same thing’s You just listed above! ?????

  59. Jennifer

    I have all these symptoms! Could it be ovarian cancer as well as Endometriosis?

  60. Jennifer

    I have all these symptoms could it be ovarian cancer as well as & or endometriosis?

  61. Joleen

    I totally understand, I’m 35 now and I feel like the endo slows me down more and more every year. Doctors are morons sometimes, I think just like regular pain free people, they have trouble accepting that there are ‘invisible to the naked eye’ diseases that still exist. Unless they’ve experienced it they don’t seem to believe such things can exist ?

  62. Joleen

    Sometimes one ovary is more ‘sensitive’ than the other. I also had that when I was younger and it is more pronounced now. I have painful periods regardless which side ovulated but I can feel ovulation occur on left ovary month.

  63. Joleen

    All of those things are signs of endo for sure. From the age of 12 to 25 I had doctors dismiss my concerns and act as though I was being dramatic. Finally got a doctor who referred me to a gynaecologist. The gyno was quite old, but he was the first person to listen to me. He listened to my symptoms for about 10 minutes and booked me for laproscopic surgery the next month. Aside from them going inside they can’t actually diagnose endo. They can guess based on symptoms. My first surgery they layered the endo they found and I was good for about 8 years, like I had ‘normal’ periods I felt like, occasionally I’d need an Advil but I wasn’t surviving on Advil for a week if every month. After my kids I started having symptoms again, so when I got my tubes tied I asked them to check again while in there. At that point it had progressed to stage 4, although no one told me that at the time, I’m sure they were hoping for good results again. Instead I’ve been in constant pain since that surgery, on the other hand when I went to another gyno he went through all treatments, I’d exhausted everything except a full hysterectomy, so 5 weeks from now I’m so excited to have all that removed. I’m praying my quality of life drastically improves after that! The funny thing is, after 23 years of endo, it still keeps coming up with new symptoms I didn’t know about.
    This was a great article as it covered a bunch of recent symptoms I’ve had that didn’t realize we’re related (woohoo more things to look forward to not experiencing anymore in the future!) I feel like every time I google an issue in the last 6 months the first result has listed endo.
    My advise to anyone who is even slightly suspicious and is suffering, find a doctor that will refer you to a gyno, and if the gyno doesn’t do anything to find a cause, find another one! Even if it just means you have a diagnosis, it is worth it! Good luck fellow women, I totally understand what you’re going through!

  64. Mary

    Has anyone had bruising on the abdomen and back from endometriosis?

  65. Ellen

    I see that Melissa has already pointed this out above but I just wanted to emphasize that if you have the symptoms of endo, you MUST get a gynaecological exame. Please, please do NOT just assume that these symptoms are benign. Okay, endo isn’t benign, but at least it isn’t ovarian cancer, which is another condition with all the same symptoms as endo. Ovarian cancer is chronically under-diagnosed and part of the reason is that too few women treat its symptoms as anything serious. So listen to Melissa when she says “go see a doctor for a diagnosis.” Skipping this test could cost your life. At least one woman I know of found that out the hard way :/

  66. Valle

    Wow it sounds like a comment that I would make describing my symptoms . I have endo but at the time of laparoscopy my doctor seems content that he dropped my heavy periods . The pain your describe is the same that I experience most of the time . I don’t bleed anymore but I have period symptoms almost all month . Tomorrow is my grandsons birthday party and I don’t have the energy to go out and get ingredients for the dishes I am contributing . It feels as though a hot poker is stabbing my right below my belly button . I am going in a cruise December 26th and I didn’t want to risk any complications recovering from hysterectomy so I have to wait until probably springtime . Also like you my symptoms started all most immediately after my tubes were tied . Best of luck to you and to all of the ladies who suffer and have to hear their family’s comment on how they’re always tired or in pain . If they only knew .

  67. Sky

    Please share your concerns with your OB/GYN. If they don’t listen or take you seriously keeping looking for one that will.

  68. PAULINE MASSA\

    HI Shawna,
    I totally feel your pain, I pretty much have everything you describe. I had a pelvic ultrasound the other day, just waiting for my results to come back. I think i have endo, so it will be interesting to see what the results show.

    It is seriously getting to me, i just hate being in pain and uncomfortable all the time, i feel like i am constantly whinning. I just want to know what is causing all these issues.

    I will try to come back to you with my results.

    Cheers

    Pauline

  69. Laureen

    Very happy to share my testimony! The great man who cures all known diseases, Dr Sebi is a healer, pathologist, herbalist, biochemist and naturalist, who immigrated from Honduras and who has committed his life to the service of helping people cure their diseases. In 1988, he took on the Attorney General of New York in a Supreme Court trial where he was being sued for false advertisement and practice without a license after placing ads in a number of newspapers, including the New York Post where he had announced: “Aids has been cured by the Usha Research Institute, and we specialize in cures for Sickle Cell, Lupus, Blindness, Herpes, Cancer, Als and others. Pre-trial, the judge had asked Dr. Sebi provide one witness per disease he had claimed to cure however when 77 in person witnesses joined him in court, the judge had no choice but to proclaim the Doctor NOT GUILTY on all accounts, proving he did in fact have the cure to all the diseases mentioned in the newspapers. Several celebrities have sought out healing through the Doctor including: Michael Jackson, Magic Johnson, Eddie Murphy, John Travolta and the deceased Lisa Left Eye Lopes who proclaims in the video: “I know a man who has been curing AIDS since 1987”.. i want to inform the public how i was cured from ALS(MND) by Dr Sebi, i visited different hospital but they gave me list of drugs which is very expensive to treat the symptoms and never cured me. I was browsing through the Internet searching for remedy on ALS and i saw comment of people talking about how Dr Sebi cured them from ALS, CANCER, HERPES, DIABETES and so on… when i contacted him he gave me hope and send a Herbal medicine to me through courier service that i took and it seriously worked for me, am a free person now without problem, my ALS result came out negative. I pray for you Dr Sebi. Am fully cured. you can also get your self cured my friends if you really need my doctor help, you can reach him now: (drsebiherbalisthealinghome12@gmail. com) You are indeed a HERO!

  70. Ashley

    Awesome! i am sharing my family testimony with joy and hopes that you will also use to get your own cures from the best herbal doctor…i was sick from the disease Ephysema, i had to stop my work and cut all contact from friends, for long i searched for possible help to get cured but couldn’t get any, Until i came across a blog testimony the herbal cures for Dr Sebi provide, i contacted him through his email: (drsebiherbalisthealinghome12@gmail .com) with my problem,he prepared herbal medicine and sent it to me, i used it with his instructions then i went for my weekly test,my tests result came out negative.
    Recently Dr Sebi also saved my sister,she was having warts infections all over her body,it was itchy and reddish, i quickly contacted dr sebi, he sent us some herbal to use and now everything is clear from her skin. Why struggle with any sickness and infections when all you can do is contact Dr Sebi, his email: (drsebiherbalisthealinghome12@gmail .com) he will help you with his genuine and certified herbs.
    Thank you dr sebi.

  71. Kimberley

    Hello, I am now 38 years old. I was diagnosed with endo 3 years ago after experiencing intense cramping, pain, bowel symptoms and heavy periods for more than 10 years prior. I ended up back in hospital 2 years ago with what I thought was appendcitis. It wasn’t. They found more endometriosis on my appendix and found the existing endo on my bowel had developed even more. I also have a chocolate cyst on my right ovary (this ovary hurts every month for a couple of days) and a bit of endo in the POD and rectal area. They staged it as stage 4. I get at least half of the symptoms listed above. I also get days where I feel off colour, bloated, as if my stomach is full, mild nausea, constipation (I used to get more diarrhoea but haven’t had this for several years now), pain on and off periods, cramping, the puffy eyes, feeling cold, feeling tired – as if I haven’t had enough sleep, loss of appetite from time to time, swelling of the ankles, the list goes on!

  72. Donna

    I second that endo is awful. I was diagnosed about 6 years ago with endo and ive never been the same since. I have and do experience all of the above symptoms but the pain is the worst. I have pain so bad sometimes that I can’t walk. The fatigue is also really bad im always tired but the amount of gyno’s ive been to who say it does not cause any of the above symptoms other than pain is unbelievable. They actually made me just go away and deal with it on my own cause they have very little understanding of it and think that by throwing a pill at you will solve it all.

  73. hubbi

    Do endo even have stages? I have asked my doctor what is tage is mine and she said ‘there’s no stage in endo’

  74. cossy

    hi Melissa,I’m 27 my problem is that I have severe period pains,I vomit when I’m on my period ,sometimes I also experience fever when I am on my period.I also experience painful ovulation, this has been happening for 13 years, please help me,what’s wrong with me???

  75. Brittany

    Please be careful. I have endometriosis and I used Depo to stop the symptoms and Depo stopped the pain but only made other things worse. please please be careful, Depo has so many side effects and is not a good BC

  76. Shirley

    I’m 25 this year (2016) and I’m gonn be short with this one. Endometriosis is painful thank God my symptoms have became way better after surgery! couldn’t walk, slp, migraines n back pain, I’d vomit wen the pain is worse! u name the symptoms. endo is just horrible. to u ladies living with endo just wish Yal get better soon xx

  77. Shawna Williams

    Have a doctor’s appointment on Friday for what I suspect is endometriosis. My mother had it. Before having my tubes tied when I was 28, my cycle was normal, other than experiencing excruciating migraines. I also had crazy pregnancies and multiple miscarriages. Don’t know if those can indicate a predisposition to endo or not. When I had my tubes tied, my uterus appeared healthy,so it seems there was no endo back then. However, within a couple of years of this surgery, I began having extreme pain with my cycle. I remember having a dream I’d been shot in the abdomen and waking up with the pain. I was diagnosed with ovarian cysts at the time and put on birth control pills. I eventually went off the pills since they increased the frequency of my headaches. For years my cycle was regular, but the pain terrible during my cycle. However, taking advil usually helped, and my doc didn’t seem overly concerned about the cysts, so I lived with it. I’m now 45. And over the past couple of years things have gotten pretty bad. I was so used to having painful periods, I kept dismissing it as only that and thinking the irregularity of my cycle and increasing pain was age related. I hadn’t even realized how much I dismissed and just lived with until recently, when I noticed how every single night I sit and watch tv with my left leg pulled to my chest to relieve back pain.

    I guess what I’m wondering is how to address this with my doctor so he’ll take me seriously, and not the age-related, just live with it diagnosis. This has been my experience. I once had a cyst rupture that was so painful I went to the ER, and the genius doctor on call was so thorough and insightful that he diagnosed me with cramps without even bothering with an examination. Most of my symptoms seem to be pretty typical. I have lower back pain that radiates into my hips, usually more on my left than right. This occurs all month and frequently disrupts my sleep. It often feels like my lower back is curving inward, like someone places their foot there and is pushing, and it helps to pull my knees to my chest. For a long while I dismissed this as being related to a mild case of scoliosis. Now, not so sure. Sometimes I have tingling and numbness too. During my period the pain is worse in my back, but also the first 4 days I have terrible pain elsewhere and take advil round the clock, and this doesn’t help much. I describe the pain to my husband as feeling like my uterus is turning inside out. He thinks I’m exaggerating and trying to be funny. I’m not. That’s what if feels like. Something is pulling at the top of my uterus and trying to invert it through my vagina. Nice! I also have frequently have a pain like the one in my gunshot dream around an ovary, I think. It’s to the side, whereas the inverted uterus pain is low middle. These pains usually go together. Actually, maybe always. The pain also hurts into my groin, shoots up into my butt cheek like an extreme muscle cramp, and down my inner thigh. I tend to get very pale and feel like passing out. Again, it helps to pull my leg to my chest.

    There are other things I experience, which I kinda figured where cycle related but dismissed as normal discomfort. Rectal pain is one. Pardon the description, but I guess I just wonder if anyone else would describe it this way. When I was in my early 30s, I developed a hemorrhoid after a nasty bout with constipation, and I knew it the moment it happened because it felt like my intestine was being pulled out. I recovered from that and haven’t had one since, but the reason I mention this is because when I have a bowel movement during my cycle, that’s what it feels like. My intestine is caught and being pulled out. I guess I’m thinking it could be related to a bigger picture.

    These last two things have plagued me for years and sound crazy. I mentioned it to my primary and he totally dismissed any relation. All I know is that there are three things that always occur together, my cycle, episodes of low blood sugar that I can’t seem to control, and horrible TMJ pain. I just won’t eat or talk, but even that really provides no relief. Even I don’t understand how these can be related, but I just know I always experience them together so they must be. Other issues are fatigue and depression. My doctor has been treating me for depression for the past year, and I am much better. I guess I just wonder now if it’s endo related since I’m reading that it can be a symptom.

    Also, does anyone experience pain in their ribs? Or hips that hinge when walking? Are these separate issues? I want to list my symptoms to my doc, but am concerned that if I start labeling all of them as possible endo symptoms, he’ll just think I’m a hypochondriac fussing about every little ache and pain.

    It actually kinda helps to write them out and describe how they feel. Seems more coherent.

  78. Amanda

    Hello,
    I found this page after researching endometriosis. I need advice on the subject. Here’s my issue: I have been having a lot of problems with severe constipation, pelvic pain below my belly button, a constant feeling of pressure and fullness (from my bellybutton all the way to my butt) Sorry to be graphic. Also, my periods have been irregular, which is NOT normal for me at all, they are very painful with not much bleeding. Also, I have been trying to conceive for over 2 years now and have had 1 miscarriage. Sex is very painful for me and it is even to the point where I will sometimes bleed afterwards along with painful cramps. I have not discussed this all with my doctor because she initially just thought I was having constipation problems. However, from what I have read I have many of the symptoms of Endo. Can anyone give me advice as how to ask my doctor to check into it? I don’t want her to think I am overreacting but the signs and symptoms are all there. I am in pain in my lower area almost everyday and also I am so tired I can sleep all day everyday. Please help!! I don’t want to be pushy with my doctor, but in some cases doctors don’t seem to take what patients say into consideration. Also, ovarian cancer runs in my family and majority of the women in the family have had some sort of problem with their girl parts. It makes me a little nervous and I don’t want to seem like a hypochondriac but should I be concerned?? Thank you in advance for your help 🙂

  79. Erica H

    Is this normal for endometriosis?
    Hello, I’m 16 and I started my period at 12. Over the past two years I’ve noticed a strange cycle with the cramps associated with my menstrual cycle. I’m well aware that some of this is normal and my best answer would be from a gynecologist but I’d like to address the internet first. A couple years ago I began to experience cramps but it’s sort of complicated when they come and go. There’s month A and month B. Month A has no cramps, month B does. Therefore, every other month I get cramps. Like most girls, the first day is the most painful and by the last day the pain has subsided. Mine usually lasts 5 days. Though, the further into the year I get, the more they hurt. By the end of 2015 I was in excruciating pain, the last one of that year was so bad I was throwing up in pain. But as soon as 2016 started, the pain was gone and slowly the cramps are coming back, every other month being slightly more painful.

  80. Beth

    My heart goes out to every woman unlucky enough to have major complications from endometriosis. My experience started over a decade ago, but became violently worse when I had my tubes tied 7 years ago. Within the last 3 years, I was seen in the emergency department countless times doubled over in excruciating pain. I would have severe constipation for a week or more followed by diarrhea and vomiting, horrible acid reflux, pain throughout my entire abdomen, pain when I would eat, pelvic pain regardless of when my menses was (that was awful too), pressure on my bladder, and back pain from my rib cage down into my hips. Finally, I was hospitalized with an unexplainable gastrointestinal bleed that lasted 4 days. The GI doctor said there was nothing wrong with me…my primary physician said I needed a psychiatrist… I was so frustrated! My husband and children watched me suffer daily and all the stomach meds weren’t fixing anything. So I asked my OBGYN if he could think of any reason for all of this (because I knew I wasn’t crazy). He decided to try out depo provera shots to test out if it was endometriosis. Sure enough, I was significantly better less than a week after my first shot. After 6 months, I’ve come off from every stomach medication, I eat what I want, and my bowels are like clockwork! Unfortunately, we’re almost 2 weeks overdue for my next shot and my prior symptoms are returning; however, it definitely confirms the diagnosis and treatment. At least I have something to credit my name after my primary physician (who I dropped) and the GI specialist slandered me in my records saying I’m a nut case. Women should be more aware of possible causes for these kinds of symptoms before it gets out of control. Thank you for this site!

  81. Laureen

    True News! The great man who cures all known diseases, Dr Sebi is a healer, pathologist, herbalist, biochemist and naturalist, who immigrated from Honduras and who has committed his life to the service of helping people cure their diseases. In 1988, he took on the Attorney General of New York in a Supreme Court trial where he was being sued for false advertisement and practice without a license after placing ads in a number of newspapers, including the New York Post where he had announced: “Aids has been cured by the Usha Research Institute, and we specialize in cures for Sickle Cell, Lupus, Blindness, Herpes, Cancer, Als and others. Pre-trial, the judge had asked Dr. Sebi provide one witness per disease he had claimed to cure however when 77 in person witnesses joined him in court, the judge had no choice but to proclaim the Doctor NOT GUILTY on all accounts, proving he did in fact have the cure to all the diseases mentioned in the newspapers. Several celebrities have sought out healing through the Doctor including: Michael Jackson, Magic Johnson, Eddie Murphy, John Travolta and the deceased Lisa Left Eye Lopes who proclaims in the video: “I know a man who has been curing AIDS since 1987”.. i want to inform the public how i was cured from ALS(MND) by Dr Sebi, i visited different hospital but they gave me list of drugs which is very expensive to treat the symptoms and never cured me. I was browsing through the Internet searching for remedy on ALS and i saw comment of people talking about how Dr Sebi cured them from ALS, CANCER, HERPES, DIABETES and so on… when i contacted him he gave me hope and send a Herbal medicine to me through courier service that i took and it seriously worked for me, am a free person now without problem, my ALS result came out negative. I pray for you Dr Sebi. Am fully cured. you can also get your self cured my friends if you really need my doctor help, you can reach him now: (drsebiherbalisthealinghome12@gmail .com) You are indeed a HERO!

  82. Jess

    Hi everyone my name is Jess. I was 10 when i got my first period and it was hell from the start. I was 14 when i found out i have endo and a week later i had to get a tumor removed. That was my first visit to a ob gyn EVER and it got worse after that for a while in and out of surgerys it was hell i had most of these symptoms for years after and then they it slowed down until lately im 27 now with a family history of cervical cancer.. Plus lately my systems are different depression loss of appetite, lower back pain, bloating like u wouldn’t believe, my weight is up and down not a huge jump but a pants size difference. I am a very hyper person or at least i was the last cpl months im like dead on my feet. N i no im getting older but im very healthy other then this. Im a waitress so all i do is walk a cpl miles day total (its kinda sad that im so used to doctors thinking im nuts that i am trying to make everyone really beleive me on here i think thats was the worst part of all of this doctors blowing me off cause they didnt take the time to see i wasnt chasing the pain meds) sorry thats a different topic for an other day..
    This might sound weird but i rather feel like i did when i was younger cause the pain was bad dont get me wrong but it was over ina week most of the time.. This i feel loke a total different person

  83. Diana

    You should definitely have checked out! experience that with all the other symptoms and come to find out pituitary tumor caused light bleeding to go along with stage4 endo.it infected all my internal organs

  84. michelle

    Hello, was hoping someone on here could help me. See I have endometriosis and my doctor found it pretty early on and I was able to have a child who is now 4. I haven’t had any symptoms for it sense then. But today I got my period again twice this month I just had it two weeks ago, and I fear that endometriosis is coming back. My doctor said that there was a chance it could come back or that it may not because I had a child. Problem is I’m not currently insured so I can’t just run to the doctor for help. Was hoping someone on here would be able to shed some light for me. I am having no other symptoms just this weird two periods in one month a week apart. Thankso for any help on the matter

  85. Meghan

    So after some testing, my doctor says it looks like I have endometriosis. I have 18/20 symptoms you listed, including some that I didn’t realize were endo.. *sigh* He wants me to start Lo Loestrin Fe.

  86. Erika Schenk

    Hi, I’m a 36yr old woman diagnosed with endometriosis and a hetias hernia as well, I have all of the symptoms above except for thyroid but was not tested for. My other symptoms is that of a hetias hernia and inflammation in my colon with makes eating a big problem! So for the first few days om my period I lose weight because I can’t eat much as I feel full all the time! It would be nice to know how this all comes together and how the one affects the other! I wake at note with terrible pain behind my sternum and middle back! My dr advised me not to have the hernia operated on because he feels that will just aggrivate my spastic colon even more! I am due to go for an laparoscopy and hope to find out the full extent of my endometriosis! I also get kidney infections at least twice a year. Loved this article and could relate!

  87. Yvonne

    Same as me took a symptom at a time now ten years later I’m waiting for gynae appointment to come through for suspected endometriosis.. Just hope I finally have answers

  88. Suzanne

    No word of a lie I have everyone of these symptoms I just have never put them together really just thought I was unlucky one one of those ppl who always gets bad 🙁

  89. Cancer

    I have that exact same pain. My periods are very light n so not last very long. I have visited many gynos n no one seem to know the root of my pain. The pain is very severe when my period is finished n it lasts until ovulation ends. Could I have endometrisis?

  90. Simone

    Hi Bee
    When I was 19 I first started noticing a pain in my hip very similar to what you have described. Then along came all my other symptoms like severe period pain & ovulation. 2 and bit years later the pain became unbearable I finally had surgery to excise and remove my endo by this time I was 21.
    My endo is no better 2 years post surgery but atleast we have answers and now I have a great pain management doctor who has prescribed me with some really helpful things including nerve pain medication. (I don’t take anything with hormones because I am highly sensitive to them and usually end up feeling more sick)

    I have only seen one doctor who thinks the hip pain is related, he thinks that my sciatic nerve becomes severely inflamed resulting in piriformis sydndrome he believes this is due to all the excess inflammation going on in the area – it is impossible to say without surgery if endometriosis is directly affecting this nerve.
    Try to chart you pain/periods etc it might help you & the doctors – I know I can tell all my pains are cyclic.

    I know this isn’t great advice but sometimes it’s nice to know you aren’t the only one.

    I hope you find some answers and relief soon xxx

  91. kellie

    Hi my name is Kellie I’m 32 I’ve notice I’m gating cramps now before my period starts and I’m booted as will now I never use to fell like this wen I was on my perid I’m glade I found it

  92. Em

    Hello! I’m really glad to have found this article. I’m 23 years old. In the last year my periods have become heavier and much more painful, I just assumed it was my body changing. But recently (1-2 months ago) I experienced pain during intercourse and have been experiencing many (at least 15) of these symptoms ever since. Constant cramping in my lower back and abdomen, chest/shoulder pain, headaches, nausea/dizziness, fatigue, skin issues, abnormal bm’s are the most bothersome. At first I was scared I was pregnant but I’ve taken many tests and have gone to the doctor, all tests have said negative. After reading this I see that a cyst or endo could be the issue.
    I have my first appointment with a primary doctor in a few days. I’m hopeful that I will receive answers and even some help.

    Does anyone have any tips on how to communicate clearly with doctors? I just want to be heard/understood/taken seriously.

  93. chantel

    hi Bee,

    when I had hip pain like yours it ended up being an endometrioma in my ovary……. let your gynea check it out for you.

    all the best……and yes many have it at a younger age than you. Mine started when I was 14…..I am 38 now….. wishing you well. 🙂

    chantel

  94. Bee

    I’m 16 and for two or three years I’ve displayed the majority of these, but especially a dull, aching (incredibly painful) sore hip. It radiates around to the right side of my back and my abdomen, and mostly the top of my thigh. I asked my doctor if he thought it could be endo, but he said I was too young – although many people online appear to have had it much younger than me? He concluded that I was iron deficient and that those tablets would help me, but they’ve not done anything for the hip pain, like he said they would. Should I push it with him?

  95. Anonymous

    I have edometriosis and had ablasion surgery last sept and 4yrs before can’t have anymore and doc put me on progesterone in Nov2015 and Nov and Dec extremely horrible and jan mild but now Feb bad and headaches but some cramping in my legs and I know what you going through and so having hysterectomy is not going to stop this need to stay on progesterone to calm down symptoms if it start to be every other month hopefully,,,god bless

  96. Windi

    Hi Melissa my name is Windi. I had endometriosis so 13yrs.ago and I had my uterus removed. I am now 40yrs old and the last week has been really bad for me. I am having the worst pain in my abdomen area where my ovaries are at. It feels like I am fixing to have a period. My breasts hurt so bad I cry when I take off my bra. I stay so sick to my stomach, but I have to force myself to eat. My legs are aching and I get really hot, but then really cold. When I was 13yrs old I had something precancerous frozen off of my cervix, but I can not remember what it was. My belly is very swollen so I have been living in sweat pants. Melissa I am miserable and I do not know what could be going on with me. Is it possible that I have endo again on my ovaries? Could I have ovarian cancer? I am trying to get into a doctor because I can not keep living like this. My hips are also hurting me. Thank you in advance for any advice that you give me.

  97. Lola

    I’m 26 and I’ve been diagnosed with endometriosis after an exploratory operation to find the cause of my pain. I didn’t see you mention anything about having a constant level of pain 24/7 and I was curious as that’s my situation. It worsens around the time of the month but it never goes away fully and now I’m on a contraceptive injection that stops my period but the pain is still there. I’ve had to quit my job and I can barely leave the house. No sure if anyone else experiences this but it’s a nightmare.

  98. nyasha

    l developed pimple under my organ um a girl 20years old .l don’t feel pain .wat can tht be .pliz help

  99. Felecia

    It is possible to get it back.

  100. Shygirl

    Read ur story Ashley I cried n I’m still crying as u telling it is could imagine it happening to me I’m so sorry diz happened to u God bless u girl I have no words to say to u to feel better but I think I have that I don’t wanna tell drs cuz when I tell them something they look at me stupid like they don’t believe me

  101. Ashley W. L.

    Agreed!

  102. Ashley W. L.

    ADRI…I see I’m not the only one you hurt with daggers for words. Think before you speak and educate yourself. You honestly, unless your selfish and uncaring, owe us all on here how are stricken with this painful sentence called endometriosis and apology, please.

  103. Ashley W. L.

    No, gratefully I stumbled to this webpage. On Oct. 23rd,2011 I woke up and started having the most violent cramps I have ever had in the 37 years I’ve been on this earth. It also coincided with a Hospice Nurse and around the clock care in my Mother’s home, she was dying and I was her suragent. It started early in the am and was progressing rapidly into me ending up on the floor rocking. Pain coming in waves. (No I wasn’t pregnant) The hospice nurse finally put a tiny drop of Morphine on my tongue and then waited 10 mins and put another tiny drop of Morphine on my tongue. The cramps disappeared! And I was able to make clear choices and greet multiple people coming into the house to pay respects to my mother. I knew and felt it in my heart, before the medicine was giving to me. The said, oh it’s just you and your mom’s cord being cut!! Really? She said that to me!! Anyway, mom died late afternoon and I celebrated my birthday the next day, not wanting to participate. Cramps, mom is dead and it’s my birthday…so what!
    I went to a doctor who told me I had endometriosis. I looked at him like he was nuts, had the Laparscopy surgery done. He left a small tiny clamp and sponge in me. We didn’t know that YET! He left endo lesions in me, but drained them? I got a very serious infection in my belly button, I went to his office, he pulls out a scalpel and starts cutting! No numbing agent nothing. Then tells me he can’t get to it and I should go home and squeeze the lower part of my belly button and try to get out “whatever is in there”, his words. No antibiotic, nothing. I end up in the ER getting pain Meds stuck in a bed and serious infection. His answer to me and my husband, well pain is part of endometriosis . JackAss, I fired him on the spot and told he was useless and his bedside manor despicable.
    I end up at another doctor 30 mins from my home to a specialist, he reads the charts, from the past doctors post-op notes, and immediately does an internal prob ultra sound and exam. As well as stated I had stage IV Endometriosis. We then go and talk in his office and he wants me to get a MRI ASAP! I got to the place, get MRI. And the tech said I was to go back over to my New doctor per his request.
    Upon reaching his office my husband and I are informed that I need to have surgery and there were complications. He didn’t tell me I had a clamp or sponge in me yet, he told me what he knew before I left his office the first time, I was pregnant and yes he took the chance with the MRI. I ok’ed it and thanked him for making medical decisions that are mandatory, but might frighten the patient. I come from a long line of doctors in my family. I agreed.
    Well, what he hoped would be a 30 minute emergency surgery lasted over 3 1/2 hours. He is a fertility specialist, he’s done this many times. Well here’s the deal; because of that first doctor, who left the lesions in me. I had endometrium covering thee entire outside of my uterus, my bowels, the back of my bladder, my liver and the walls of my entire abdomen. He took over 60 pictures of my insides, before and after. I had scar tissue attaching itself to other organs. It looked like cobwebs. He also filmed the entire surgery, thankfully. He removed the clamp and sponge and had security scrub in and another surgeon to witness the removal of a different hospitals property.
    THEN he tried so hard bless his heart to save my 2 month unborn child. whose sack was covered with cysts and was “attacking” it. He was shocked I was pregnant but tired to get my uterus internally cleaned out to save the baby. NOPE, there was to much endometrium on the sack. I’d signed a paper b4 surgery that I gave him full authorization to do whatever he had to do. I’ve watched that dvd, this man so gental and kind was speaking to the other surgeon who had scrubbed in and said,” this poor young lady just lost her mother and now I can’t do anything to save the sack. I hate it when this happens to women in this country.” “Now I have to look into her big blue hopeful, but intelligent eyes and tell her I couldn’t save her baby.” Right there and then after watching that DVD of my surgery and hearing his words during the surgery. And how he spoke with me in post op, I knew before he told me…and was crying when I heard him approaching.
    NOW let me ask you this, does THAT sound like every woman in America??? Seriously, do your research and know that if you have endometriosis, they might take your uterus out like the want to take mine.
    Oh, and my husband left me in the middle of the night while I was sleeping, never to be seen again. Filed for divorce and snuck out like thief in the night. Sound normal….welcome to the world of women who DO have endometriosis! I hope you don’t have it and would be considerate to those of us do before making a snide comment like that! Because it brings/triggers memories of the past and what we live with daily. Show some respect please.

  104. Gwen

    Hi Holly, sounds like the same thing I am having at the moment. It hit me, this morning, that years ago my doctor told me I have Restless Leg Syndrome. I actually forget I have it since it never bothers me much. My father had it and it can be hereditary and women tend to get it more than men. You might look into that.

  105. Anonymous

    I am 84yrsold and i have a lot of pressure in my stomach when i go to urinat and i having to go every little bit its like a chill and hurt all together goes cclear up my body it just started today could u give me some idea what it could be

  106. Anonymous

    Since when does periods cause pain during sexual intercourse??? pelvic and leg pain, trouble with bowel movements and trouble urinating????
    If something isn’t right you will know about it,you wouldn’t mistake it for period pain!!! I’ve had pain after giving birth to my daughter 7 months ago. I stopped breastfeeding after 6 weeks and still had abdominal cramps,as she is my first child i thought it was normal at first. My periods are all over the place I’ve had cramps and pain ever day since and every symptom that goes with endometriosis. For me it wasn’t terrible pain Like child birth or appendicitis it was persisting pain. You have to be careful ignoring gynecological symptoms it’s not always about the type of pain it’s the pain persisting and ovarian cancer they call a silent killer!!! So your comment might make women doubt they symptoms and could lead to something serious. I’ve doubt myself but ended up with pelvic inflammatory diease, fluid on the pelvis, fibroids and now expected endometriosis I’m glad I didn’t egnore my symptoms as I do wish to have more children.

  107. Katy

    I’m having the same issue as well! I’m trying to find a way to help it instead of doing surgery!

  108. Anonymous

    I totally agree these are not every women’s symptoms I’m one of those women who can’t move before my period with debilitating back, neck, and abdominal pain. I know other women experience all or some or even none of these symptoms and in different degrees

  109. Candise

    I have had endo since I was 22. 3 laposcopic surgery, 8 miscarriages. The only things that helps me deal with the pain is a heating pad and strong pain meds. I have had no support team either to help deal with this horrible condition. I wish that the gov’t would do more research. I am currently fighting with the insurance company because the won’t approve my hysterectomy. Sometimes it makes me emotionally drained. I also drink soda for the caffeine. Seems to help some as well.

  110. Vedrana

    I feel exactly the same Andrea :-(.. It’s awful. My relationship with my husband is really bad, all because of my mood swings. I got abandoned by my best friend because she doesn’t believe me, she accompanied me to few visits to specialists who came up with nothing and gave me more painkillers that don’t work and she thinks I am exaggerating.. I am so depressed.

  111. Karissa

    I have a lot of these symptoms, for probably a year and it’s starting to get worse with the headaches the awful lower back pain, my neck hurts, and it hurts really bad to have sex. I haven’t been to the doctors.

  112. Anonnymous

    I do have 11 of these symptoms, but I mostly experience them before or when I’m on my period.

  113. ebru

    hi thanks for the information

    I had ovarian cyst removal 3 years ago and now I have the same symptoms which you wrote such as frequent urine, feeling bloated and breats tender, pain during intercourse I was wondering do I have it again or something else??

  114. Holly

    My legs start to ache from about 9pm onwards and when I go to bed it gets worse. I am unable to sleep and it dosnt matter how much I rub or shake my legs the pain is there, however the ache seems to subside slightly when I go to the toilet. Any ideas what this is?

  115. Stephanie

    Two years ago, I started having bleeding and spotting constantly during the month. They believed it was my thyroid. They did a test and found I was hypothyroid and put me on meds and they said that should fix it but it didn’t after getting my levels straight. I finally went to the gyno in December and thy did transvaginal ultrasounds and found a 3cm polyp and said that’s the cause and I’m scheduled surgery to have it removed and have an ablation and d&c in a few weeks. My concerns are that I have all of those symptoms that you have listed which many aren’t those of just a polyp. I’m having shooting pains on my left side where my ovary is and I know it’s not ovulation because I’m due to start any day. They did no ultra sound over my stomach and I’m almost tempted to go to the ER and have them check it out. I feel it is more than just a polyp.

  116. Melissa

    It sounds to me like you could have Endometriosis. Do you experience any of the other symptoms? It is so common now – 1 in 10 women have it!

  117. Melissa

    No, not necessarily. I would have a look at why your body is displaying these symptoms and if you do have them, there are certainly imbalances that need to be looked at – wether it is Endometriosis or something else.

  118. Catherine

    Nobody who has ever lived through it would suggest you are a drama queen, but I know how much we question and doubt ourselves.

    This usually comes across as insulting – but have you tried anti-depressants? For their mood stabilizing qualities. I, included have take this question as an indication that I was being written off as a mad woman.. But they have helped. It is your day to day wellbeing I am concerned with.

    I hope you find something that helps soon. Sending much wellwishes and hugs!

  119. Anonymous

    What an incredibly insensitive comment. Way to belittle us.

    No, it’s not like every woman’s period. You’d do well to discuss periods with more women.

  120. Taylor

    I am also 19 and going through the same symptoms but never been diagnosed.. I have these problems since I first started my period but doctors never take me seriously. I am scared of the labsopic procedure. I’m always in pain and people say I am no fun to be around.

  121. Adri

    I feel like this article just described every woman’s period symptoms. So do we all have endometriosis?

  122. Lisa

    Oh, wow. All. Of. The. Things.

    Thank you. I will be printing this and taking it to my doctor.

  123. Anonymous

    Thank You!

  124. Anonnymous

    I’m 20 years old and since I got my period when I was 13 I have always had servere cramps that just won’t go away. I have cramps on every period. They are so bad that I have to skip work and everything else. Most of the time I also have nausea and sometimes I even have to vomit. It happens more often now than before. Yesterday I took meds that should work in 12 hours, but now – on my third period day – I have cramps again. This has never happened before. I can’t do anything when I’m on my period, and no one understands my pain. I think I might have endo because I can’t explain my pain and I’ve always had it. I’ve talked with my mother about this but she doesn’t believe that endo is the answer. She just thinks that my pain is normal. Sorry for my bad English.

  125. Jazz

    31 your not alone my youngest is 8. c section . doctors gave me blood tests .. my white count was high which he assumed kidney infection puts me on antibiotics they didn’t work . im in severe pain i feel useless .. mood swings .. no quality of life
    i try and be positive for my kids .. i move to go toilet or sit up feels like im being stabbed … more tests more pills .. painkillers doing my head in .. turning me into a nutter or a zombie. i keep telling him my symptoms.. i wake up in pain .almost every night twice . they are still telling me we think its that . booked in for a laparoscopic surgery in January. painkillers aren’t working . is a hysterectomy the only way to get rid of it . she told me that theres a 1 in 3 chance it will come back. and that 1 in 10 woman get this … ranges in pain some not much to unbearable . puts me on the pill .. said might help with the symptoms .. hasnt yet .. im tired sleep wake up in pain .. sleep during the day wake up tired sore and grumpy . pain in the left side 1st .. then back walking hunched over . stop breathe feel sick cause it hurts so much . she said im too young for a hysterectomy . im human no1 should feel this bad .

  126. Anonymous

    I have knots in both arms, they were diagnosed years ago as fatty tissue laplomas. I am also suffering with Endo. I am done with periods but had a D and C and a biopsy this past year because of Endo. Two weeks it has all hit me back again. I am not bleeding but period pain like having birth contractions , shoulder pain , severe headaches, leg pain and cramping, swollen ankles, and horrible mood swings, crying very snappy, jumpy inside, nervous feeling. I do have a appointment with my GYN next week. Something has to give. This is very hard on me and not fair to my family and friends. I did let them know about my problem and told them to please over look me at this time.thanks for listening. Sharon

  127. ashlee

    Its the worst however i have been able to find a support group in melbourne that meets every two months

  128. ashlee

    Thanks gill i will look up now.

  129. Anonymous

    I am 19 and have the same exact issues and could not agree with you more about there not being enough awareness about this disease! I was diagnosed with Stage 4 Endometriosis in March of this year. It has taken over and changed my entire life. It is very hard not to miss work and nobody understands it at all.

  130. Anonymous

    I am also 19, suffering with the same symtoms. I have Stage 4 endometriosis and it is terrible. They have me on a treatment – Lupanetta Pack – they said it was supposed to ease the pain (which it is supposed to, but it has not as of yet. On the 17th of this month will be my 3rd treatment and it is very painful. I am sorry you have to suffer the same issues

  131. Jamie

    I am alone in this battle. I just wish I could get some answers.

  132. Jamie

    I am 41. I had my second child 5 years ago. I had a c- section, and after my child was out the doctor tied my tubes like I asked him to do. From that moment on every years my menstral cycle has been out of whack, and the pain is getting to intense. For the past two years the pain is in my hips, and down my legs. I had on one occasion went 11 days of bleeding. I went to the emergency room wanting answers, and all I had gotten was papers to explain my menstral cycle, and the diagnosis of irregular menstral cycle. For the past two years I have expressed to all the doctors I have went to about this isn’t normal, and no one cares. I have even stop telling them, and just deal with it.

  133. Gill

    Also after trying for several years with no success both my babies were conceived from drinking Chinese herbs tea. I would check reviews online to find a good TCM clinic near you.

  134. Gill

    Try Chinese medicine. I take herbs and they have took away 80% of the pain.

  135. Leslie Agnew

    I’m 45 just had a baby a year an a half ago cramps in lower back arms an legs can’t get out of bed from bleeding so bad using 3 forty box of tampons an large pads an still have to change cloths 6 or 7 times a day mood swings hurt so bad pain relievers an heating pad doesn’t help any more please what is wrong with me I think I’m going crazy some time

  136. Anonymous

    I am just 19 and suffer from the same symptoms from my 6th standard how can I cure this

  137. ash;ee

    i am 23 years old and have been battling with endometriosis since i was 13. i have had 3 laproscopic surgeries however each time it comes back. i have also been trying to concieve a baby but that hasn’t happened either, i struggle with my weight and have bad breakouts, my pain is so severe i literally take my days off work just to have a day in bed with my best friend panadiene forte, i am always tired, i have most of these symptoms and id love a natural remedy for it so i don’t have to take time out of my life each month its very hard to cope with not being at work and people having no understanding. i do not believe there is enough awareness of this disease

  138. Anon

    I’m 23 and just had my first child 7 months ago I was diagnosed with pcos 3 months before I fell pregnant and last week I was diagnosed with endometriosis my doctor has recommended I try for another baby ASAP but I’m worried about having another so soon and if there would be any complications during the pregnancy

  139. Dominique

    Hi ive had an irregular period since forever, until May 2015 I went on a contraceptive and my period was normal until I stopped after 2 months later, I stil had my normal period until October 2015 it never came, I feel bloated my stomach feels big, I have leg pains what could this be, am seeing the Doc in the week.

  140. Melissa

    So sorry you are opting for a hyster hun. All the best and do let us know how you get on with it all.

  141. Ashana

    I was just diagnosed with stage IV endometriosis and I’m scheduled for a total hysterectomy in a couple of weeks. This article says it all.

  142. priya

    I also have same problem what can I do

  143. Anonymous

    I’m so sorry. I can relate to what you are feeling. I use my heating pad and take tumeric for pain. It helps at times but doesn’t take the pain away completely. I hope you feel better .

  144. Andrea

    I have almost all the symptoms you have described. The pain is so bad I cry and rock myself back and forth. And my mood swings are the worst. They are very extreme. I am separated from my husband right now because of them. It has caused me such trouble. About a few days after my period I’m fine then it starts again two weeks before my period. I have two weeks of normal behavior then two weeks of crazy mood swings. The cravings for sweets during those two weeks is crazy. And I also feel so sick I have to make myself be sick to feel better. The pain is from my shoulders down to my knees. I want to die it hurts so bad. I’ve lost jobs because of it and I’m about to lose another job because I miss days at work every month. No amount of pain medicine works. I could take the whole bottle of ibuprofen and it wouldn’t help. My skin is a mess no matter what I try, my breast swell up and hurt so bad worse then when my milk came in after having babies. All of these start two weeks before my period continue until about a day or two after my period. Help!!! Please no one believes me they say I’m just a drama queen because of my mood swings but I’m not.

  145. jouie chichi Velasquez

    Hi
    I jus found out tha most of the symptoms mentioned above are what I’m experiencing. I finished my period 5days ago but I feel some pain as if its period pain, my legs are affected too (just like during periods) at times I feel nauseous, and I have an internal pain below my bellybutton, Lower back pain and last night I had a burning sensation after urinating. In march I had a miscarriage I visited a doc n was given some meds n stuff. But since then each period I pass out some dark red and pink tissue. I haven’t yet been to the doc in yet to go but jus wanna get some ideas….
    I’ve not been sexualy active since my miscarriage (months ago) and will my sex life ever be the same …m jus worried and scared…..i also suffered an abusive relationship

  146. Amy

    My last period was about 3 weeks ago and it usually goes for 5-6 days it only went for not even 3 days, ever since I have been constantly bloated and needing to urinate a lot, I have been hearing strange noises in my stomach and even have sore boobs, is this all normal for endemetreosis ?

  147. andrea fenell

    I am routinely up to a week late. Just seems to happen. Dr says stress and hormones will do it. When was the first time you noticed any symptoms? The first time I had Endo suggested I was 14, after 3 years of trying to convince my mom something was wrong. I was diagnosed at 22. My dr at the time stopped wanting to get the diagnosis cause I was “handling it so it probably isn’t that bad” so I went to a gyno office and told them I needed my diagnosis cause my dr wasn’t doing anything. It’s been 2 years and not all my symptoms are gone but I’m in way less pain and were still working out the kinks in my treatment, everyone is different you know 🙂 good luck on your journey

  148. Stephanie

    Yes it is so annoying! Can I ask what pill you were on when it was happening? I’ve never had this before and I’ve been on the pill for over 10 years. I am on Mononessa now. I am getting married in October so don’t really want to go off the pill until after then! lol.

  149. Melissa

    I used to experience this and can totally relate! It is nasty! I found for me, it was only happening when I was on the pill. A strange side-effect but it dries mucous linings. I would reconsider it 🙂

  150. Stephanie

    I was wondering what other people experience with endo in the eyes/nose? I have pain in my eye if I touch it just right and it feels like something is in it. Typically gets worse closer to my cycle. When it started I saw an eye doctor who said he saw white things in my eye but just suggested a lid cleanser. My nose also gets sore and runny/bloody right around my cycle. I have been diagnosed with endometriosis and have already had two surgeries. I mentioned these symptoms to my gyno and she suggested skipping periods with my BC…any other suggestions?

  151. Andi

    Endo has been found in men. The cases are very rare but it has happened. They cant find a cure to something they don’t understand. There are plenty of things that we don’t have a cure for that do effect men that scientists do understand.

  152. Jessica C

    Hello,
    I am so sorry that you are going through all of this. I have Endo and it started as early as 11 years old for me. It took doctors 4 years to figure out what it was and I am 28 years old now. I have been on almost every treatment out there. Currently I am on Aygestin.

    I have an aunt who was told by doctors that her severe pains and other symptoms (mentioned above) are normal. I told her they are not normal, gave her an endometriosis brochure and she took it to her doctor. After giving it to him, they decided to give her a laparoscopy (like I had) and see if it is indeed Endo. And it was. She had such severe Endo that all of her organs were webbed together and she had to have a hysterectomy. Thankfully she had already had children (my 2 cousins) and she didn’t want any more of them. She was in her mid-late 40’s when they found this.

    The point I am making is that maybe if you download an endo brochure, print it and bring it to the GYN then maybe they will get on board. The Endometriosis Association has free downloadable brochures that you can use.

    Wishing you luck and sending hugs,
    Jess

  153. Melissa

    Thank you Hayley. It certainly sounds like you might have Endometriosis. It is hard to get a proper diagnosis. I would transform your diet and see if it supports your body. HPylori is surely also inhibiting your bodies natural ability to absorb nutrients so I would flush that one out. Big hugs and hope you get some relief.

  154. Hayley

    Hi guys….
    Hope your all pain free!
    I’ve been going to my doctors the last 3 years after having my 3rd child! I experienced every single symptom on here and also have had h-ployri! I had a scan which picked up a ovarian cyst and a problem with my pouch of Douglas! I had a translational scan last week and my results are at the docs! Which I will be seeing Friday this week! This doctor told me it was all in my head I have at least over a 6 month period uti’s and found myself on anti-biotics every week! As it just wouldn’t go and if it did it would sure come back 2 weeks later! My it is have calmed down and ive only had one infection in the last 2 months could I have endo?
    Also had low iron and only one period in 6 months which took me 2 my knees! And thank you so much for putting this up its helped a lot to understand!

  155. Rose

    Infertility … if someone mentioned already I apologize 🙂

  156. Anonymous

    Could be ovarian cysts. I get them frequently its harmless unless its really big. Usually with every period they break down on its own or with taking ibprofen

  157. Anonymous

    When I was younger is have bad “cramps” and it literally felt like my uterus was going to drop out. Little did I know, that’s basically what was happening.
    Now that I’m 21, I know I have it and it hurts during sex, you feel nauseated afterwards and feel like you shouldn’t move or you’ll be sick. Lots more symptoms but!
    I try to eat a pure diet of farm fresh poultry and fish for meats bc red meat is like a pain increaser, and fresh fruits and veggies. I’ve found out that soy is very very bad for you. Sad thing is it’s in basically EVERY food. Even bread!
    You should refrain from wheat/grain, dairy, preservatives, high fructose corn syrup, soy and sugar! Those are all foods that have pain increasers in them.
    Even if you don’t have endo, I think it’s good to try to eat this diet bc of all the crap that’s out there now a days. Oh and you can only have water to drink unless it is pure juice. No additives or anything!!!
    Anything that says it’s in there for freshness or to keep it’s color etc etc stay away from. It’s all chemicals were eating.
    You are what you eat so remember that! Make sure you take your vitamins since you’re not getting the same diet and make sure you level out your fibers. Too much rice and your constipated, too much fruit and your butt gets tired of visiting the toilet.
    (For some reason watermelon seems to effect endo women)
    Hope I gave you a little bit of help.. I’m still learning myself and trying to stick to this diet. It’s a hard change to make.

  158. Phearless Phemme

    The problem with endo symptoms is that they’re very vague and can mimic symptoms of literally 20 other conditions. Diagnosis requires invasive surgery, and even then the treatment options are shit. Hormones that induce early menopause or more surgery? No thanks!

    If endo affected men, they would’ve found a cure 50 years ago. Just sayin’.

  159. Melissa

    Big hugs hun. There is more to what we eat to rectify the imbalances (water retention and hormone imbalances). Look at how to really provide MAXIMUM NUTRIENT 🙂 The endo diet is often just about cutting foods out but we need really put heaps more back in. Look at superfoods, wildfoods and smoothies of goodies 🙂

  160. Anonymous

    I can deal with all the pain.. it’s been going on for so long but I don’t like that i gained 10lbs of water weight in a month, a year and half after my partial hysterectomy. I have on ovary left.. that one never caused pain and now it’s acting up because I guess it’s missing its buddies. But this disease sux. I am the point where I think there is nothing you can do.. The Endo diet.. ya whatever.. workout? sure.. then I’m in pain for a few days after.. and I’m not a quitter but part of me is giving up. 🙁

  161. Traci

    Lately i’ve been reading up on all of this stuff because i’m very concerned and this word “endo” keeps popping up as a possibility. I’m 21 years old and for the past 2-3 weeks i’ve noticed my stomach being more bloated than usual. A pain in my lower right side started to appear about 5 days ago and it stays around but isn’t to uncomfortable. I work a job where I stand up all the time and i’m running around waiting on customers and making foods, and sometimes i find myself getting just a slight bit dizzy. Not to often, but it has happened a couple of times and I thought it was strange. When i make quick turns, i will get a sharp pain in my lower abdomen for just a second…and lately i’m able to go “number two”, but when i try to push out to pass gas, it feels like i’m constipated…like something needs to come out but my body just cant get it to.. when i try, it really hurts my lower abdomen..The pain was so bad once that I felt my hearing go numb and I got really dizzy and started to overheat..I thought I was going to get sick or pass out, or both. The stomach area near in between my ribs and underneath my boobs is very swollen. I’ve never been a skinny girl, but it protrudes out and the belly does as well. Its also been 3-5 days passed my period date. I’ve been reading forums after forums, they say I should check for pregnancy which i plan to do in a week if nothing changes…but i haven’t had pregnancy symptoms besides the missed period. Forums tell me it could be that i’m pregnant, have endo, have ovarian cancer or a cyst…and its all got me really scared. I’m terrified of surgery..and well, hospitals in general. Are there things that I can do to help my body if I do have endo? Perhaps I could try those things and see if this condition gets better

  162. Heidi

    Hi Robin, I have had endo for over 10 years I am 37. About 2 years ago I had surgery for it and felt great for a few months. Within 9 months it was back. I understand your pain, I am sorry you are going through this too. One thing that has really helped me with my abdominal pain is Doterra’s Clary Calm it is an essential oil. I never thought it could do as much as it has but it works. You just roll it on the affected area twice a day. I know it seems silly, but I was willing to try anything. I am sure glad I did.
    Good luck!

  163. Melissa

    I think we put up with heaps that we perhaps don’t realise. The body is complex though and endo even more so 🙂 We can cross off all of these with a holistic approach to healing 😉

  164. Melissa

    Biggest hugs Leanne. Your journey sounds like a long and painful one sweetheart and in much need of finding a good doctor. I would recommend seeing a Naturopath or Chinese Doctor as it sounds like there is alot of hormonal imbalance going on. The Nuva Ring is only a symptom solver but doesn’t actually get to the root cause. You need to look at your hormone levels, balance them back and also look at your thyroid and potentially if you have some kind of Candida overgrowth. You need to see someone hun. I am sure you can find a good Naturopath or Chinese doctor to help you. Glad you couldn’t go for Lupron – that stuff should be taken off the market!

  165. Leanne H

    I live in Ontario and trying to get help has been so hard to say the least. Im a 28 year old single mom and have been suffering with 18 of the symptoms for the past 4 years. I had a really hard time getting pregnant. 2 and a half years and one miscarriage later I finally got pregnant with my son I have today. But since his birth I’ve had issues with my body. It started out with breastfeeding issues. I wouldnt produce enough and then I would have too much then back to too little every month. Then my period was very irregular. Then my period wouldnt stop. It honestly didn’t stop for just over a year then I had 2 weeks of a break then back at it. I went to emerge whe I was bleeding so bad I fainted when I stood up. They told me its nothing and im just dehydrated. Been to 2 gyno doctors.The first told me it must be cancer because im too young for endo and pcos (which we all know isn’t true) the second told me he was going to put me on Lupron shots at $400 a month. Being a single mom… yeah right. Im on the nuva ring right now which has helped a bit. The bleeding stops for about 2 weeks each cycle now but its never a full cycle and it didn’t treat the pain. The doc actually asked me what I wanted to treat the bleeding or the pain. I guess it was funny when I said both please. So I picked the bleeding as it was making me more miserable than the pain its self. But for the past few months ive been getting more pain and its all the time. It hurts to bend certain ways or sit for a while and when im digesting food… dont know what to do now. I know I need surgery to see whats going on but I dont know where to go or who to see. Its been like pulling my own teeth to see the two gynos ive already seen so where do I go to get someone to help me? I cry myself to sleep all the time because im past desperate and tired of feeling like nothing can be done. 🙁

  166. Rosanna

    It’s insane, I’ve literally got every single one of these.. and like many people have said – I’ve never put them all together under my endo. I just thought I suddenly had turned into a cold person! ha. I was diagnosed 2 years ago, and its pretty much been hell ever since. I’ve just started a little blogspot which is going to be my way of venting, and maybe helping other people too. (heyimzana.blogspot.com) but this post has really helped and made me realise I’m not alone in these ‘ridiculous symptoms’ people tend to think if it isnt a pain in my abdo, that it cant be anything to do with my endo. I think I’m slowly losing it now though.
    Thank you for posting this 🙂
    xxx

  167. Caroline

    Hi

    I have suffered with pcos since I was 16 and have recently been suffering with a large majority of the symptoms that are listed especially water infections every gp I have seen has fobbed me off. I am now waiting for a gynae appointment and I am on a waiting list. We are still chasing the hospital and doctors even though I took myself to a and e with the pain. I am currently of work which is a job I love as I can’t physically do it as I have no energy and I struggle to eat normal food. I am currently eating soup and yoghurt. It is a comfort to know that i may not be going mad as one doctor told me to learn to live with pcos and prescribed anti depressants which I am glad to say I have stopped taking as I now realise I know my own body.

  168. Melissa

    Hi Hun,
    I would perhaps go and see a gynaechologist or a naturopath and explain your symptoms. Find a doctor that doesn’t make you feel silly. You have every right to figure out what is going on 🙂

  169. Anonymous

    I’ve been so scared that I might have this, and reading through these symptoms makes me even more scared, sense I have pretty much all of them. I have been to so many doctor appointments, and have been placed on the pill and told it’s just a really bad period. Im not satisfied with that, i’m 17 and I feel like i’m missing out on so much because i’m always in pain. Do you have any advice on how to talk to doctors, I really hate going, they make me feel like i’m crazy, but I can’t take this anymore. I really appreciated this article, and I think you’re amazing!

  170. Anonymous

    If you feel like that, you can do this,close your eyes & say this words it will make you lots of calm & relax your self. Say. “SUBHANALLA” – keep saying this without thinking anything else it will help you a lot. I think it should be help a lot.take care of your self.

  171. Paula

    Hey! I would also add shortness of breath. I always feel like I can’t breathe with the endo. It’s not because of the pain, but more a problem with feeling a weight on my chest. What sucks the most is that I’m a vocal teacher and a professional singer, so I need to be able to breathe better than most people.

  172. Melissa

    Hugs sweetheart. It feels better knowing what we are dealing with and how we can approach our healing 🙂

  173. Jay

    Incredible! Tears came to my eyes. I have endo and had never put a lot of these things together (bad skin, itchy eyes, eczema), but I have every single one. Thanks for putting this up. I can sleep a little better knowing that I probably have only one thing wrong with me instead of a million little things AND endometriosis.

  174. WstTxCowgirl

    Lauren,

    I am no medical expert but I have been suffering with Endometriosis for 9 years.
    Before I was aware of having it, I spent two years nearly screaming in pain from bowel movements. I’ve never been numb in my pelvic cavity – that would be a blessing. But every single day consists of exhaustion, fatigue/weakness, dizziness, nausea, dark bags under my eyes, constant severe pelvic pain, to include lower back, extremely tender breasts two week before my cycle until it is over with, painful intercourse (I’m so thankful to have an understanding husband). Before my first surgery, it was painful stepping on my right foot. It sent unbearable pain to my right pelvic cavity and that is when I went to the ER and they found a huge mass. This led to my surgery which provided the Endometriosis diagnosis. Although every person is different and symptoms will vary, most will be present with most women. Only you know your body, how it feels, if something is wrong, and how it’s supposed to feel. My biggest piece of advice is to LISTEN to your body and take it up with your GYN. Endometriosis has so many symptoms that it flies under the radar as something else so often. It is always possible but this doesn’t mean it will happen. I listed a portion of my complications just for you to examine so you know what you need to look for. I pray that everything turns out to be okay for you.

  175. Melissa

    Hi Laura,
    I am so sorry to hear you have been through so much without much guidance. It could be endo. I would focus on cleaning your diet and making sure you are doing the best for your body. Even if it is Endo, this will really help. Try and see a specialist in Gynaechology or even better Endo.
    Big hugs. You have come to the right place 🙂

  176. Laura

    I suffer terribly with period pain. When i was 15, my mum took me to the hospita as i was doubled up wih abdominal pain. The nurse said that where i was showing her that the pain was coming from( under my belly button on the right and left side) was where my eggs pass through. I put off having the test because i was scared they would tell me i was infertile. I’m 28 now and have the worst abdominal pain you could imagine. I can’t sit up i have to crouch over. My friends got a shock when they saw me two weeks ago and i was on my period. They said my skin looked grey and that i looked heavily medicated. I’ve spoken to two doctors over the years. One (male) sai without any examination just from looking at me that i had a strong womb and that was it. Another one (female) just prescribed drugs, something called Metamorphic acid but that just masks the pain. I dont get diarohea when im on my period but i get cold sweats, my temperature is all over the place, suffer moods swings and get upset easily. What should i do? Request a gyno appointment? Do u think ive got endo? Its been great teading this blog and learning im not the only was suffering these severe pains.

  177. Melissa

    Absolute pleasure Angelica. Just make sure you come right back when you get a proper diagnosis 🙂

  178. Angelica P.

    Thank you so much for posting this information. I have gone doctor to doctor and no one can figure out what I have. Every single symptom listed I have and I can’t believe I finally found something that could be the answer to my nightmare. Thank you so much! God bless!!!

  179. Melissa

    It could be. I would also look into Candida overgrowth as excema is closely related 🙂

  180. Lauren Martin

    Hi guys just wondering does it sound like I have symptoms of endometriosis. ..im going to list my symptoms that iv been experiencing lately. ..my doctor has referred me to gynaecology ror a laparoscopy. …
    Loss of appetite. …urine infections. ..constant pelvic pain….numbness and tingling in pelvis….aching and heaviness in right hand side which feels worse when I need the toilet and when I empty my bladder or back passage the pain is bad….iv got excema recently aswell…lost two stone. ..im so so tired I feel I have no energy or life at the minute! !!!!
    Any responses would be extremely appreciated girls
    Xxx

  181. Melissa

    Not at all Lo! Definitely sounds like endo. Maybe get it checked out but come back here for treatment options 🙂

  182. Lo

    Im 27 and I’ve always suffered terribly with period pain. I can’t even put into words how much it hurts. On the first day of my period i suffer from severe/excrutiating abdominal pain. I start sweating and have to take very trong pain killers or i believe I would pass out. Im starting to get symptoms the week before, I’m moody and emotional. Could i have endo? Is this pain normal?

  183. Anonymous

    I have very very light periods.

  184. Anonymous

    I don’t eat pasta. What other reactions could be associated with this pain?

  185. Melissa

    It certainly sounds like it could be endo but the approach to healing the body is the same, regardless of what you call it 🙂 Get onto a super clean diet and destress your mind 🙂

  186. Melissa

    It sounds like it could be Endometriosis but there are other conditions that can cause this reaction. I would start by looking at your diet. Does it hurt more when you eat Pasta for dinner versus just a vegetable based dinner? Try it out and then look more closely at your diet. It makes a huge difference 🙂

  187. Lisa

    I wake up during the night and take pain killer, standing, sitting, walking and lying down is painful. The pain is on my left side. I have always had bad period cramps, I mention endo to my gyno and she said to monitor the pain. I seriously think something is wrong with me. Sometimes pain killers don’t even take the pain away. It is very depressing to be living in pain day in day out. Please help

  188. Lisa

    I am 32. For the past 8 months I started experiencing pain on my hip and leg durin and after my period and the pain remains for 2 weeks after my period. I have a friboid and my gynologist says the pain can be because of that, should I get tested for endo?

  189. Nicole

    Three years after having my first and only child, I had my tubes tied as well as an oblation due to complications. Since then, I’ve been living in hell. Period type cramps ALL month long, sometimes having several periods a month, being lethargic, craving sugar like mad, nausea, vomiting, unable to walk some days, dealing with the pain others, and the constant migraines are unbearable. I have yet to be diagnosed with anything, but, after reading this and several other pages, I’m going to get checked out.

  190. Melissa

    It is not a permanent solution – unfortunately. It grows back 🙁

  191. Anonymous

    You can get laparoscopic surgery to have endo removed and also diagnosed I’m going in tomorrow

  192. robin

    Hi Melissa thanks for your reply the doctors just keep putting it down to my pcos but its not normal to feel how I’m feeling tho I forgot to mention I suffer from ibs aswell this surly has to be linked to a more serious condition for all these pains??

  193. Melissa

    IBS and PCOS can cause incredibly pain. Pain is actually a good sign – the body is communicating something back. Look at your stress levels and really focus on the right diet sweets. My course would help you so much! http://www.endowellnessretreat.com

  194. Melissa

    Hi Robin,

    I am sorry to hear of your struggles. Know that you have come to the right place 🙂
    I would start with your diet and what you are eating. Eating more iodine rich foods like seaweeds will definitely help you.
    You can get better sweetheart. Just keep reading and maybe join the Food Healing Journey. Enrolments end in 10days. Big hugs,

  195. robin

    Hi everyone, I need help I’ve been in pain for 4 years now with no answers I have pcos but surely just that wouldn’t cause the symptoms I have alone….. It’t starts between day 11 and 24 it last for around 8 days between cycles I have intense abdominal pain up to my left ovary I can barely move touch my belly or anything it’s so sad I’m crying writing this for 10 days atleast it’s to painfull for me to have sex and I’m infertile 🙁 I also have terrible mood swings and heavy periods that make me anemic. Some times I experience small amounts of gush of bloody water between periods after a sharp cramp to the abdomin/ovary area I don’t know what this is due to endo or ruptured follicles?? Ian always tired and have low back pain!!! Please someone read this it’s ruining my life I’m only 27 and so depressed. Thanks x

  196. Melissa

    Hi Debbie,
    The body is one whole unit and the organs all work together. The liver and the gallbladder are very closely linked to endometriosis. It is best to focus on cleansing and healing the whole body 🙂

  197. Debbie

    I had that same problem but mine ended up being my gallbladder. My gallbladder wasn’t functioning at all. They took it out right away. It’s hard when you have endo because (at least for me) I am always wondering what is the endo and what is other issues with my body. I would see if they could do a HIDA scan to rule out your gallbladder first. All of my ultrasounds came back normal but when they did that test it showed that my gallbladder was only functioning at 27% I think. Just an idea.

  198. Nala

    Hello, I’m 29 and 2 years ago I had normal periods. Then one day I had crazy Pms emotions that made me want to dump my long term boyfriend and cry or scream. The next day I got my period but I was so sick with cramps, nauseous, diarrhea, back ache. It felt like I had food poisoning until I made my self puke and a hot bath. By the afternoon I felt better. The next month I was fine, but the one after a few I had one like that again. I started to notice a pattern in every other month with my period. I went to the My Dr. For a pap, went to a fertility specialist, got acupuncture, herbs, (medical marijuna really does help) Not one person suggested I could have something wrong with me! I have had cyst on my overies before and acupuncture really helps but I’m wondering now if they are related. Could my symtons just be from my cyst or hormone imbalance? The last time this happens was two cycles ago and I really felt like I was going to pass out I was so dizzy. I can’t be away from bed at all. The next period was normal and now I’m expecting my period in a week. I have the worst cyst I’ve ever had right now that is getting better with castor oil packs. Cyst run in my family so my mom suggested castor oil. I have noticed that even with a regular period I get diarrhea right before I start to bleed. I tried to get pregnant earlier this year for about 5 months but no luck. I eat healthy, organic, avoid gluten. I am realizing that I need to focus more on my sugar intake. All of the info I know is from listening to my body and doing my own research. I don’t think western medicine listens or fully understands the link with nutrition and health. At least not in the case with any of the doctors I’ve been to.

  199. Melissa

    Hi Catherine,
    I have so been where you are right now! Let me share with you that what you eat can change ALL of it. Have you seen my new course? It would be the perfect answer for you: http://www.endowellnessretreat.com

  200. Catherine

    I was diagnosed with endo in 2010 since I was having trouble conceiving. Had a laparoscopy and had stage 3 endo.
    Since then went through 3 cycles of artificial insemination and 2 Ivf cycles.
    Have out beautiful son who is now 2.
    Over the last 6 months have had more endo symptoms. Am booked in for another laparoscopy hopefully within 5 months.

    Been experiencing pain in upper abdomen like bloating, gastric pain, uncomfortable after big meals, feel bloated, belching, lower back pain.
    Comes just before period and during.
    Then ok after period.
    Never had this last time, but now it’s pretty horrible. Also have very bad psi on my right ovary to the point where I can’t walk. Was admitted to hospital awhile back with an ovarian cyst.

    My specialist is convinced my endo has returned so am now just hanging out for surgery.

    Also have our next Ivf scheduled for may ! Exciting but endo gone would be good.

  201. Jessica

    Mary,
    I have yet to be diagnosed with anything!
    I am living the same life as you with less answers…. I personally experience 19/20 endo sympotoms regularly…i have 2 girls and a boy….and i feel the phantom baby! Even with a tubal ligation…
    If you solve the mystery of the strangly haunting kicking rolling vibrating…please post it…or email me…snicklefritz84@gmail.com
    Im losing my mind…my body and my faith in humanity….
    Hoping for answers for us All.

  202. Tanya

    Doctors also say its stress as i just lost my job after a big fight with my employers almost going to court. I worked ridiculous hours 06:00 to twelve at night and doctors kept telling its because of that! We decided to open a business… and still “it could be stress” Pill after pill… On a day im taking 7 pills!

  203. Tanya

    Hi Melissa.
    When i was in high school my period didnt stop. I would go for weeks and went home so many times because of leaks on my clothes. It was the worst time of my life. I went on the pill and it went well! For the first time i was feeling normal not only did my period come the right time it helped with my skin problem too! Being in high school kids can say the meanest things! After getting married we decided that i would leave the pill to have kids… We have been trying and got to the point of giving up! for more than a year after leaving the pill I have not had my period once… I had all pregnancy symptoms and wasted tests one by one. from Gyneas to doctors, testing everything they keep telling me nothing is wrong! Now im stuck with about 9 of the symptoms mentioned above and my lower abdomen hurts so much when i need to go to the toilet i cant walk up straight. Having sex with my husband hurts so much… My breast hurt so much too… For more than a year i have been nauseous, emotional, getting stomach pains and my breast are sore. I am so tired of doctors saying im normal and nothing is wrong! I have cut out caffeine from my diet completely as my skin breaks out of it! I even went back on the pill again and doctors say all the symptoms is because i am back on the pill. Please help I am sick of moaning and groaning! Luckily I have a very supportive husband!

  204. Melissa

    Hi Mary,
    First off, I wish I could give you a massive big hug. You are incredibly strong and have been through so much. What I can tell you is that there is hope. Our bodies are incredible at healing 🙂 We just have to give them the right tools to allow them to do that.
    Have you seen my new course? It might be the perfect thing for you right now. http://www.endowellnessretreat.com

  205. mary

    hello my name is Mary I am 28 years old. I have endometriosis and PCOS. I’ve been experiencing a lot of lower abdominal movement after I eat and drink. I have not had my menstral cycle in 6 months. I’ve taken many pregnancy tests to rule out pregnancy. I have had a laparoscopyto have endometriosis tissue removed through out my abdomen years back I’ve had a hysteroscopy and I know that it could also just be bloat. I’m asking if it is possible that the movement is the endo tissue tugging on my bladder and lower intestine. I do not feel bloated. I have not had any positive bladder infections but I do have bladder pain. The movement honestly feels like the begining of the second trimester of pregnancy. It is that intence. There are even times I can feel it with my hands if they are on my pelvis. I have been through the obgyn ringer for the past 10-15 yrs. They all have different treatments and solutions. All of which have been painful or not productive. I’ve been put on numerous bc and meds but none have helped. I have even considered a hysterectomy but have been denied because of my age. (Even when I had my uterus so solid with tissue that they were concerned with cancer being an issue) I am at my wits end and to my boiling point with stress and pain. I have two girls and I fear for their future seeing as I lost 5 babies due to misscarriage and my mom also had many of the same problems and had a hysterectomy at 38. I cancelled my last ob appt because my ob wanted to give me an iud to shed the extreme amount of tissue. He said I’d bleed up to 6 months!! I couldn’t bare the thought. My last cycle started in may amd lasted til aug. And I haven’t had one since. Please if you can untangle my mess of a story tell me what you think. Should I consider ANOTHER abdominal sugery? Could this movement be from endo tissue pulling on all my organs? I also forgot to add that I had my gallbladder removed a few years back and I had endo tissue all the way up there. It had moved my stomach in the wrong place and fused my galbladder my liver and my stomach together. So I know its atleast that far up into my body. Please any feed back is MUCH appreciated! Thank you !!

  206. Melissa

    Hello Eileen,
    I am super excited that you found my site and that you have found my listing of symptoms that often come along with Endometriosis.
    I know that it can be super scary to visit doctors who tell us these things and my message to you is that there is hope and no, there is no pressure. You need to get your body ready to carry a child. If you aren’t ready, it can lead to other complications. I would focus on your diet more and eliminate more of the foods that might be inhibiting your health and your overall well-being. I would also look at doing some detoxing for the body. With your prior history, it is likely that you have some heavy metal toxicity within your body. Have you had the mercury filling removed from your body?
    Let me promise you that you are not alone and that there is hope for you sweetheart. Many women with endo are able to conceive, even in later years. It might be a good idea to join the support group on facebook for some extra support aswell 🙂
    http://endoempowered.com/facebook-support-group-application/

  207. Eileen

    Hi Melissa,

    I was diagnosed with enodmitriosis in July 2013, after an emergency laprocopy surgery due to a degenerating fibrioid that needed to be removed. The OBGYN informed me, after the surgery, that I had mild endomitriosis that she removed completly. My husband and I were present at the visit when she encouraged us to try having children sooner than later. I informed her that our plan originally is to wait until I was 30 years old; I am 26 going on 27 shortly. She informed me that if I waiting my chances would be less over the years/ or I would need to get another laproscopy surgery again in order to attempt surgery.

    That surgery was not fun to go thorugh and I prefer not to have to get surgery again, given the fact that I have had two brain surgeries in the past, four hand surgeries, and several other medical issues. For this reason, my husband and I decided that we will try sooner than later. Howver, I have a few questions for you.

    Do you think I would not be able to conceive? I looked at your list and I actually have every signle symptom. What is the best way for my to take care of myself from this day forward? Since my surgery, I have been in so much more pain, which my doctor tells me is normal.

    She mentioned that the pain that I receive from eating sugar/ salt foods causes me signficant cramping (even when I am not menstrating.) The pain has caused me to eliminate several foods from my diet and I actually have lost a signficant amount of weight due to this. I actually lose 28 pounds and I am already a thin woman. I am just seeking advice from others who have gone through this expierence and who can lead me with more suggestions/ insight. I appreciate it ahead of time.

    Sincerely,

    Eileen

  208. Nicole

    This is a fantastic find for me. I suffer from 15 of these symptoms. I have believed I have endo since I was 21.I have been trying to get pregnant for 6 years now and have had no luck at all. I have even had 2 iuis. No doctor even cared about the pain I was having every month. Every doctor I have been too just shoves pills my way for the pain. I have take everything under the sun to get rid of the cramping. Nothing ever works. Have had terrible acne since I was 13. I am now 28. I just recently moved to Belgium from the US and have found a doctor who immediately thought it was endo. I just had my mri last week and go for my results later this month. He said it is my choice to have the laproscopic or not. I am going to do it I think. Dealing with this pain for the last 15 years has been terrible. I just want to have children so badly. I hope I can get to the bottom of all of this.

  209. Melissa

    Hi Cindy,
    I am sorry to hear you are still experiencing symptoms after all you have been through. It certainly is possible to still experience pain and even endometriosis after having it all removed. Removing everything doesn’t get to the reason why you developed Endometriosis in the first place and those imbalances need to be fixed. Take a look at your diet and consider my new online course to really educate yourself on the foods that truly heal. It is far more complex than it may seem 🙂

  210. gigi

    You mentioned your Grandma & Aunt have Endometriosis could you perhaps talk to them about how your feeling? In my opinion you are taking brave steps to help yourself which is wonderful! However at your age you should talk to a trusted adult about your symptoms. That is not meant to be a lecture but advice from a Mom that doesn’t know you but does care:)

  211. cindy

    HI, I had a hysterectomy in my early 20’s (thankfully after I had 2 boys). then several years later I had ovectomy due to cysts. both though were related to endo. I am almost 50 now and I have had cramping in lower area of stomach. lately I’ve had leg pain and more cramping which is constant. is it possible to still have endo even after the surgeries? I’ve asked dr. before with no answers. its terriable to live with pain like this. like having a constant period even though I don’t have one. ugh.

  212. Justagirl

    Ok… So I’m 14 and not to be mean but I don’t want any lectures. I’m just wondering. I started my period a year and a half ago and ever since the first one, it has been pure torture. I get excruciating pain during my period and just a dull ache that comes and goes durin the rest of the month. My period is light though and only last 2-4 days. A couple of months ago, I went to the ER thinking I had appendicitis but it turned out to be a ruptured cyst on my ovary. Also, my periods aren’t regular at all which I know might be normal for my age but still. I counted and just of the 20 symptoms above, I have14 of them. I’ve done research that my mom doesn’t know about because she thinks it is normal because she has pain every month ( has never been tested for endometriosis) but my aunt( my moms sister) has it and my grandma on my moms side had it too. I don’t want her to know that I know all I do, but I strongly feel like even if it isn’t endo.something is wrong and it might be simple I just want to know. I’ve spent multiple days in the school office in tears because of the pain and can’t afford it since I’m in advanced class. I can’t go home when this happens because they only let you go home if you have a fever or are puking. My mom and I don’t have a good relationship so can’t talk to her. Any advice at all would help but PLEASE no lecturing( telling me to talk to my mom anyway, don’t worry bout it your too you g, ect.) because I’m just curious and need help

  213. Melissa

    Hi Justagirl,
    I am very happy that you found my site and that hopefully we can figure what is going on within your body. Period pain is definitely not normal, even if our society deems it as normal! Nor is PMS. With Endometriosis we can often face a horrible situation where the only way to know for sure that we have Endometriosis is to have a Laparoscopy done to confirm that it is 100% Endometriosis. Considering your family history, it sounds pretty likely that you do though.
    Also, if your symptoms are the same as you indicated, you could just take the necessary steps to heal your body. The hardest one, especially at your age is going to be what you eat. Sugar, Gluten and processed foods are going to make your pain worse. You should also avoid common Vegetable oils as they are inflammatory on the body.
    The main thing is to really replenish your body and provide it with some real healing tools – that means, you need to eat really good food! That means eating so you really provide the most amount of vitamins, minerals and trace elements your body needs to heal. This could be challenging if your mom is also suffering from pain as it is likely that the whole family diet is not that good. I would highly recommend having a look at my new course, which illustrates everything you need to know about how to eat right: http://www.endowellnessretreat.com. It would educate your whole family on food and how to reduce pain and inflammation in the body naturally. Maybe you can get your aunt to recommend it to her?
    I think it is great that you are worrying about things now. It is great to take action while you are young and not just listen to the same horrible solutions often offered by doctors. You are strong – I can sense that 🙂
    Great to see you taking action and no, I am not going to lecture you! You ultimately do know what is best for your health and body – happy to help you on your journey though 😉

  214. Christina

    I was officially diagnosed with endometriosis when i was 24. Although i started getting symptoms a year before my first period (at 14). experienced pain every month as if it were period pain without my period. I also became very emotional and exerienced pms at that time. When i got my period at 15 it got worse.i find this description to be comical. “pain during your period” No no ladies. That is not a good description. Normal women get “pain” during their periods. In my experience, a woman with endometriosis gets mind numbing agony during her period. The pain i get has been compared to a woman in labor. I feel like my insides are being torn apart. A nonexaggerated feeling of being ripped open from the inside out with a butcher knife. THAT is endo pain. Its the kind of pain that makes you unable to hold your composure in public. I have spent many car rides home screaming in pain with my husband driving. That being said, i have also found some solutions. Very rarely does ibuprofen help a whole lot. But i take it anyway when i feel the first sign of pain. I keep ibuprofen on me at all times. Pepto also helps sometimes. But the biggest thing is a very hot bath. That is the only thing that will always help the pain. My husband discovered this and it’s changed my life. Also, if you have a husband or friend that will help you with your condition it makes life more bearable. Its difficult to take care of yourself when you’re that condition. I’m 30 now and i have a system to control my endometriosis. But the number one thing that helps is God. He makes us stronger through our trials.

  215. Melissa

    Hi Helen,
    I am so sorry to hear of your struggles Helen. Unfortunately, the hyster won’t always get rid of the endo or your struggles. You might be better off focusing on my new course for 6months and see how you feel after that? http://www.endowellnessretreat.com. It is called the Endo Wellness Retreat and women have had exceptional results with it.

  216. Helen

    Hi, thank you for your report. I have suffered with these symptoms for nearly 18 years now. Been on many medications and had many surgeries to combat the endo, but to no success. I’m 41, childless and been booked in for total hysterectomy, cervix and part bowel removal on January 7th 2014 in the hopes that it will irradicate the endo for good.

  217. Kat

    To Anonymous November 21, 2013: transabdominal ultrasound is more for a general view of the pelvic area, however transvaginal ultrasound is very effective for detecting cysts in the ovaries etc (the most common endo cyst site), as well as eliminating other reasons for problems in that area. And I guess a doctor won’t do a laprascopy without an ultrasound first.

    Laprascopy is the gold standard for endo diagnosis, but it’s still a surgery, and carries its own risks (e.g. any surgery in the pelvic area can reduce fertility). And removing cysts surgically won’t prevent the cysts from growing back.

    I had a lap years ago when I didn’t know what I know now – now I would refuse a lap, and if other reasons were eliminated, instead I would try eliminating the causes for endo symptoms (the ones Mel’s been speaking about – excessive estrogen, digestive problems, inflammation). And if that works, I don’t think I’d need a formal diagnosis (via a lap).

  218. Anonymous

    With an ultrasound they are nt able to see endometriosis unless it is in your bladder. The only way to know for sure is a laparoscopy. I have had endometrisis for almost 6.5 years now diagnosed but for about ten years before that undoagnosed

  219. Erin

    Hi Melissa,
    Thanks for the response…. I’m doing my best to leave the past where it belongs… But this past Friday I ended up in the ER (with no insurance) because the pain was so bad in my left lower pelvis, kind of in the middle below my belly button & over to the left… that entire area, was sore to touch & even go near… it also hurt to stand up straight & to sit straight down on my butt. The ER Dr actually told me he didn’t understand why I had come to them for a chronic problem I’ve been dealing with for years… & even after I explained that I had no insurance to pay a gyno up front for a problem appt, he still didn’t understand the choice I had made. Which honestly, was a had choice I finally had to make after dealing with the horrendous pain for 48hrs nonstop. I was definitely taken back by his comments… I didn’t come to the ER to getridiculed by the attending physician. The only reason I even ended up going was because the pain in my lower pelvis was accompanied by left shoulder pain & shortness of breath, which made me really worried it could be an ectopic pregnancy!

    As for your product, I can’t afford anything right now because I’ve been put of work for 2yrs for a Workers Comp injury that I was approved for in July & my Ex-Employer was supposed to pay me my back pay within 30days, & I’m still waiting! It’s a crappy vicious cycle because the workers comp injury is holding me up from getting a new job that I would at least have the option of paying out of pocket or if I got a FT job I’d have new medical insurance by now! Ugh! I can’t even afford to go to a place like Trader Joe’s & buy healthy foods… I unfortunately have to eat whatever it is my Mom buys & stocks the fridge & pantry with. 🙁

    However, the ER Dr said my symptoms are definitely textbook symptoms for Endometriosis even though my surgeon told me I didn’t have enough Endometriosis found during the laparoscopy to remove anything, the ER Dr also said my symptoms could indicate a ruptured cyst or fibroid & that I definitely had chronic pain.

    Now here I am 4 days later still riding the pain wave, waiting to feel “normal”, which my “normal” isn’t the same “normal” as a woman my age that has no problems, regular periods & non-painful sex. My body is a nightmare!

  220. Melissa

    Hi Erin,

    I am sorry for your struggles sweets. It is a hard journey with endo sometimes 🙂
    I would try and move forward and let the past go. Let go of the anger of everything you have been through as it is not helping your healing. Focus on two things: Give your body maximum nutrition and eliminate as many toxins from your body and diet as you can. You can do a cleanse that will help cleanse our your body and rid you of many of the symptoms you describe. A three day fast is a great way to cleanse and will stop the whole need to poop too 🙂 You could do a Juice Fast, which really works.
    I am running a promo on my products at the moment which has all the info and some fab recipes to help you. It is all going up next month so it might be worth getting before then. The information would be far more than visiting yet another doctor who doesn’t give you long term solutions hun. http://endoempowered.com/bargain-super-dooper-deal-on-all-products/

  221. Erin

    Sorry for all the typos… the keys on my tablet sometimes don’t register right! Plus being upset & in pain isn’t helping me to edit. Hope it was as readable as possible. Oh & I’m not seeking “medical advice”…. just advice & info. I did call my Drs & they said they’re booked & because it’d be a problem visit it’d be $150 right off the bat, not including any tests. I don’t have $150! I don’t even have $5. ;(

  222. Erin

    Hi… Thank God I found your site because I’m at my wits end in every sense possible! From my FIRST PERIOD at age 14 in 1998 til now… I’m 31yrs old I’ve dealt with allergies (had allergy shots for 7yrs that I was only supposed to get for 2yrs… finally said I was done because it was making my allergies worse, which once I stopped I felt better), debilitating pain with my periods, to the point of having to call out of work for sometimes a week EVERY month… the days I did go to work & then got my period, I ended up having to leave… in 2007 I was working with a restoration company & was laying on the floor, my partner, a male, was getting me hot rags for my pelvis/abdomen until my loss came to get me, physically picked me up off the floor & drove me to the ER!!! I’ve had acne my since puberty, even went through a year of accutane accompanied by blood work every month to make sure the meds weren’t damaging my liver/kidneys!, for 2yrs my boobs would swell up 2 cup sizes filled with lumps & fluid (saw a specialist through Susan g komen who told me she could feel the lumps but for some reason they weren’t showing up on the ultrasound machine… I’ve been put on ortho tricyclen lo, seasonique, ortho tricyclen, nuvaring & a rash of other birth controls that within 2-3days I had to stop taking because they made me certifiably nuts!… after 5yrs of trips to the ER almost every month, with & without insurance, pain meds that did little to nothing after tolerance built up, ultrasounds, MRI’s, CT Scans with & without barium (worst crap ever!), diagnosis of fibroids, PCOS, cystic breasts & finally endometeiosis at the ER, I demanded my OBGYN to perform a Laparoscopy… worst experience of my life! The CO2 was horrible, I ended up with an endotracheal injury, I broke out from the fentanyl shots in recovery & it made me a super B, the Dr told me he found NOTHING… which turned me into an even bigger B, I flipped out in recovery at the DR & the nurses especially when they tried to only give me motrin for the pain after I left… he ended up giving me a few 5mg percocet, which let’s face it, when you’ve built a tolerance to them, it doesn’t do ANYTHING! I ended up in the ER the next high after Thanksgiving Dinner, which is where I found out he Dr hadn’t removed enough of the CO2 which had all settled under my diaphragm & that I was in fact injured by womever inserted the breathing tube for the surgery. However, at my post-op appt the Dr told me I did have small amounts of endo, cysts & fibroids but they didn’t meet their protocol to remove them!

    Now today, I had sex last night & had pain immediately afterwards that has gotten worse since then, I was due for my period that didn’t start til today (my periods been 2-16days late every month since June 2013), & with every period I end up with quarter sized blood clots, pain that’s so horrendous I want to invest in a walker!… theleft shoulder pain mirrors that of what is described for an ectopic pregnancy & iI’m scared. Usually the pain in my pelvis feels like glass or sharp shards of metal… this time it feels like something stuck right where my uterus is but a little to the left & I’m petrified! I found something today that kinda caused a lightbulb to go off & wanted to share through the thick of my rant/vent (losing my mind!)… It’s called “pelvic compression disorder & apparently this affects women between the ages of 20-50yo & are varicose veins in our abdomens that get backed up or could possibly burst from the pressure of standing or sitting up straight, which is why most of the pain go in away when laying down (which is the same when having an ultrasund & exam done! It says that if ot os infact varicose veins when yu lay down the varicose veins relax & “unbloat” which is why our tests ALWAYS come back “normal” aka “making us feel like head cases to the Drs!” or if you’re like me curled up in the fetal position! I’m really scared right now because something in me is screaming “go to the ER, some things wrong!” but im scared of being poked & proded & for what for them to do a bunch of test, poking & proding my pelvis that i even can’t go near without bursting into tears, being charged $1,000s pf dollars for them to tell me they didnt fnd amyting but a twisted ovary, ruptured cyst, etc, & with maybe 10 5mg percocet for pain if im lucky. I literally would take death over this right now! I camt doanything but lay here & adjusting myself is torture… getting up for food, drink or bathroom is like catapulting me to the edge of the cliff because the pains that bad! How do you know if its endo (if i was told i only have a little & it shouldnt be causing rhis kind of pain) or ectopic which is obvously life threatening…. & the fact that i feel feveriah, wth abdominal/pelvic pain, severe bleeding AGAIN, light headedness if i stand too quick (which is next to impossible because the pains causing me to stand up like someone recovering my a very invasive surgery, i cant sit atraight up because then it feels like a rod with spikes is all the way up to my breast bone & my eyes hurt from cring so hard… i had a funeral today & the car rie thee may have well have been a tortue chamber jabbing me in the pelvis/abdomen! I dont know what to do becauae ive been out of work for 2yrs because of a work injury, no insurance + no money = i cant change what i eat because im earing whatever in the house wich is quick fix food & i only eat when i know i might be able to stomach it… bowel ovementa feel like a knife, so it’s affecting me healthwise because i dont want to eat… not because of an eating disorder… but because if i dont eat, i wont have to poop & if i dont poop, i eliminate one source of pain. It’s hell on Earth for me & havent found any Dr willing to do a good will case of a willing guinea pig! What do you advise? Should i take a stroll down ER Lane & worry abut the bill later or take my chances & try to wait this out? I currently have 1 of those sticky period heat packs on, but i noticed ice sometimes helps more (i read ita because it constricts the engorged veins)…

    Ps. As for the 20 symptoms… ive had them all at 1 point or another…. but toay has been mah 50 with the symptoms & also the pain. I feel like im dying! Somethings wrong! ;( HELP! Sorry for the rant… i just really need someone to tell me what they ,aybe think & for fellow women to tell me regardless of insurance you need to go the ER roe or no you dont. Thank you so much for your blog! Xoxo.

    <3 – Erin

  223. Sara

    Hi Melissa,

    thanks for the artictle, I think it’s really useful.
    I have or had 8 of these sympthoms, and I was already checked for endo with a blood (c125) and internal ecography. Since doctors found nothing to worry about, I didn’t take other tests. My principal symptom is strong and debilitating period with severe pain, fainting, cold sweating, vomit and diarrohea if not treated. If i take naproxen I have just a strong pain for 3-4 day during my period, and although I generally can’t work much, I can control it.
    The last doctor who saw me(from an Endo dept. of a local hospital) told me it’s possible I have some spot of hidden endo he couldn’t exclude but he didn’ prescribe me any other test.
    I was wondering if it can be possible that a lot of worman suffering of dysmenorrhea are actually suffering of hidden and “slight” endo. And maybe they will never be diagnosed of it. What do you think of it?
    Since I don’t know well what to do at the moment, (I don’t want birth-contorl pills) I’m going to try a few month of dairy-free healty diet, limiting gluten and sugar as much as I can, in order to see if I have some improvement. So thank you for you site!

    Cheers, Sara from Italy

  224. Melissa

    Hi Brandi,
    There are so many answers and yes, it sounds like Endometriosis. I would recommending my free ebook to get you started but really your focus should all be about what you are eating as this is how you will feel – you are what you eat 🙂
    You will find heaps and heaps of free info on this site to help you, use natural methods – the contraceptive pill only makes it worse 🙂

  225. Brandi

    Melissa, I am 18 years old and I have just about every single symptom of endo. But yet I have been to the E.R. and gynecologist multiple times having many Different test done. I’ve Have not been diagnosed with anything yet! My symptoms start about a week befor my period is due and last the entire week of my period as well but the first two to three days are the worse. I get heavy bleeding, severe pain to were I cant get out of bed, bad headaches, leg and feet pain/cramping, back pain, sore breast, mood swings, depression, I also sometimes get the shoulder pain as well. I have tryed two different kinds of birth control witch were useless. I would love to finally find some answers and help if you have any for me ?

  226. Melissa

    It’s okay Amber. All the answers you seek are on this site 🙂

  227. Amber

    This is so scary! I’m 19 & i have almost every single symptom

  228. Melissa

    Hi Helen,
    I am not able to give you an exact diagnosis based on the indicators you have given me – sorry sweets 🙂
    The only way to know for sure is to have a Laparoscopy to find out what is going on inside of you. I would however say, that no matter what your diagnosis, the treatment and methods to healing would be the same.

    Hugs,

  229. Helen

    About ten years ago when I was in my mid twenties I had a persistent pain in my tailbone are that was worse before and during going to the toilet, and pain during sex. I was sent to a gynecologist who diagnosed endo, but without any laproscopy or anything, merely a history and a physical exam. She recommended a series of lifestyle charges to bring the endo back under control, and sure enough, once I was better behaved the pains subsided and only rarely returned. However, though I had mild period pain, I’ve never had the kind of pain most endo sufferers describe. I was always in some doubt as to the diagnosis.

    Ten years on, and I have a similar persistent pain and feeling of fullness in my tailbone/colon area which got progressively worse over a period of two weeks, with sometimes radiating pain going down my legs and worse before I go to the toilet. This is more pain than ten years ago, making it hard to sleep. I also have various aches and pains in different parts of my back and pains through the front of my pelvis at times too. I still only got mild period pain though. I’ve been plagued with IBS type symptoms all my life, some nothing’s changed there, but about a month ago I had bad diarrhea and fatigue, followed by pain which felt like the return of shingles in my upper back and chest. The doctor put the fatigue down to the return of post viral fatigue which I had at the beginning of the year, the upper body pain down to shingles, and I know she thinks that the lower back pain is just the return of endo.

    My question is, does this sound like endo to you? I’ve never had crippling period pain, just regular crampy pain. I’ve got all the low-immune system indicators like allergies, asthma, ecsma, IBS, regular skin break outs. I’m also on medications that as a side effect, elevate levels of estrogen and progesterone. I’m just worried that my doctor is ignoring other possibilities because she biased by that end year old, (IMO) tenuous diagnosis of endo.

  230. Melissa

    Having your uterus taken out is not always a cure for Endometriosis! Using natural methods of healing is a much better option sweets.

  231. Melissa

    Hi Terri,
    It could have also just been the stress of moving and perhaps your digestion is also out of sync which can also cause pain during sex. Did you find you ticked YES for any of the other symptoms?

  232. Terri

    I am terrified after reading this. I suddenly started feeling really bad “cramp-like” pains during sex as if I was about to have my period. It suddenly got really bad I couldn’t continue and the pain got worse. I’ve never had this issue before and I know I’m due to have my period soon. Started doing a late night Google search bc the pain wouldn’t go away. I typically have sex with my boyfriend on a regular basis, but we hadnt in over 2 weeks because we just moved out of state. ive been stressing a lot and havent been eating regularly since we moved. I feel that if I hadn’t had sex tonight I wouldn’t be experiencing this pain right now. But as I mentioned earlier, I’ve never experienced this until now. Since i left my job and moved, im worried bc i no longer have insurance. Any thoughts?

  233. violet wallace

    hi my name is violet Wallace and I have had endomertriousis for 3 years and I have had surgery done for it and it’s back and I am about to talk to my doctor to take my ovaries and uters taken out so it don’t come back I know I can’t have babies

  234. Melissa

    Hi Amber,
    It certainly sounds like Endo. I would get the Ultrasound – sometimes they can see it on that. You can also get an MRI Scan. You can pretty much deduce that it is endo and take natural steps towards healing though 🙂 even without a diagnosis.

  235. Amber

    Hi Melissa!

    I am 19 years old and have had heavy periods for as long as I can remember, clots and heavy diarrhea and nausea on my period! I have had lower back pain for a long time and horrible lower abdominal pain! 2 weeks before my period I get horrible left sholder pain for about a week and pain killers do not help!! I feel depressed and stressed on my period and before and causes problems for me and my boyfriend and sex is painful but only in doggy? I am having an ultrasound on Wednesday, to see if its ovarian cysts but is there anyway they can have an idea if its endo by the ultrasound or do you have to have a lap to see it? Thank you for you help I feel so alone!! 🙁

  236. Melissa

    Hi Krystle,
    I am sorry to hear of your struggles. Bleeding as you are in certainly not normal. I would try some Serrapeptase to really heal the insides. Changing your diet is massive in your healing. Get onto real food 🙂 All the best and I hope you keep looking for answers.

  237. krystle

    I too suffer for about 10 years from all these Symptoms. I’m 30 years old and now being checked for endo. The last year i have developed chronic back pain too the point i cant walk or move for a week i have a cane 🙁 also i think im having stomic seziers its really hard too explain my gyno says i have endo but waiting for surgery.He told me last week my cervics was way too soft? and i also have a polyp in my uterus. Im glad im not the only one.I am in chronic pain every day.Im depressed What i wanted too ask is my period this month is 3 weeks goes like this 7 days heavy 7 days of light blood like i have cut myself and 7 days of black,brown tissue i was told its normal is it?also what home treatments can i do too take all my pain down a little? im too the point where i want too give up :(.Also i have prolapsed stage 2 please throw me some advice as im in some need thank you and much respect.

  238. Melissa

    Hi Kat and welcome to my blog 🙂 Thanks for all the wonderful comments.
    The other symptoms the endo or any other condition, would all be treated the same way anyway. Get the imbalances in the body back in balance, flush out toxins and live well. I would look at your diet and stress levels and your first steps and not worry too much about what potential diseases you might have. The treatment is the same either way 🙂

  239. Kat

    Hi Melissa, I really like your blog, it feels insightful well-researched!

    I wonder then: have you come across ways to differentiate endo-symptoms from other conditions with similar symptoms, e.g. ovarian cysts or cancer? I haven’t found much information on this, but I wonder if they’re typically also cyclical(-ish); is there difference in magnitude or type of symptoms, or in how fast they develop..?

    I was diagnosed with endo a decade ago, but always had pretty mild symptoms. However, during the past few months I’ve developed a bunch of worsening or new ailments (mostly cyclical), many of which are listed here (+a PMS week of mild evening fever, shortness of breath, heart palpitations and ankle swelling). They’re not excruciating (although have lowered my quality of life), so doctors want to “wait a little longer” to see what it could be. However since I’m normally healthy, I’m pretty anxious about this cluster of newly developed problems!

  240. Melissa

    Hi Leah,
    If you didn’t go well on the pill, chances are you won’t go well on the Mirena either. It is still synthetic hormones being pumped into your body. It sounds like you could have Endometriosis. If you want to know for sure what it is, then ask for a Laparoscopy. Knowing what it is, can often make you feel better. Trust in yourself and find a better doctor if things don’t feel right. Your body does ultimately know what it needs.

  241. Leah

    Hi Melissa,
    Thank you so much for this. I have the majority of the above symptoms. I am 22 years old and believe there is something abnormal going on. I’ve always had bad cramps during my periods. Not to the point that I am immobile, but still bad. I also get severe rectal and vaginal pains during the heaviest flow days. These pains are stabbing and sharp and spread to my pelvis. It gets so bad I lose focus and am doubled over. This only happens during my period. I am convinced this is NOT normal. I also get severe PMS symptoms (including those painful swollen breasts–almost a full cup size!). My doctor suspects I could possibly have endo, but wanted to treat me with the Mirena IUD to see if symptoms diminish (they did on the pill but i can no longer tolerate the hormones). I refused the IUD. Should I ask him for a laparoscopy? I am scared that nothing will be found and he and everyone else will think this is all in my head. I’m really frustrated and have a bad feeling about all of this.

  242. Melissa

    Thank you Deborah. I haven’t experienced severe anxiety but it could definitely be a contributor to not getting sufficient oxygen to the cells of our bodies. I would really recommend also getting into Yoga as this really helps with the breathing too.

  243. Deborah

    Do you suffer from anxiety at all? My daughter has been suffering extremely painful periods and many of the symptoms you have. She has had a lapo and they say she hasn’t got Endo . I have been taking her to a Pysio who is a breathing specialist and she has told me that extreme anxiety can cause the entire body to be super sensitive to pain and interfere with digestion and can throw out the entire nervous system . She is teaching her to breath properly and its due to her not breathing correctly that these problems have occurred. This information my or may not help you but every little bit of information helps. Good luck with things I hope you find a solution.

  244. Anne

    Hi,

    I’m so glad I found your blog. I suffer from almost all of those symptoms. I also suffer from rectal bleeding with painful bowel movements (I cry on the toilet and can’t sit still on the toilet), thrush, UTI like symptoms but clear urine samples sometimes, leg pain on right leg down to the back of my knee and weakness/feeling numb in the front of both legs, tailbone pain, burning knife like stabbing pain inside vagina and bowel, gas pains but no relief after passing wind, feeling my bowels moving, and fainting from the pain. Trouble eating due to the pain and nausea. 2 days ago I fainted I know when I going to faint because I yawn and feel warm and dizzy then when I wake I vomit. Before and after Christmas I thought I was going to end up going through the shower doors if I didn’t sit down on the shower floor. It’s really frightening and worrying that I could end up seriously hurting myself. Turning the temperature of the shower doesn’t make a difference. I faint outside of the shower too. I’m always tired but when I go to bed I can’t sleep. I have had episodes of fainting well before both surgeries and I always faint before my period is due. I’ve had ECG’s, MRI’s, and CT scans apart from ultrasounds and have always came back normal. My stomach is always bloated and hard. Period blood looks almost black and lumpy at the beginning and end of my period. I pass huge clots as well. No sign of fibroids either. Every time I go the doctors they think I’m constipated when I’ve already been. Alternating runs and constipation but stools are soft but can’t go. It’s sometimes difficult to wee and at times I will squeeze it out. I have had a laparoscopy last month but found no endo but still having symptoms of endo which I find strange. I also had a bowel obstruction adhesions from the appendectomy made my bowel loop and stick together, kinked, and twisted. I’m waiting for a endoscopy but haven’t heard from the hospital yet. I just wondering whether endo could be hiding in the scar tissue which would make it harder to see the endo where I had previous surgery. I only had 2 incisions for the laparoscopy and plus they had to cut my cervix to check my uterus. The scars are healing but they have keloids on them like the appendectomy scar and that was open surgery. I have asked doctors about but they say that clear endo doesn’t exist and would have seen it anyway. Is it possible? I’m getting the same symptoms but even worse now after the surgery. I’ve just about recovered from having septic tonsilitis but can’t seem to get rid of this cough. I’m allergic to most antibiotics and certain types of food trigger my symptoms too. My skin is sensitive, acne breakouts, body hair, and itch at times. I’m gradually changing my diet and have started cutting out some foods.

  245. kirsty

    I have every one of these symptoms and more one thing I have noticed a lot with my pain is my right shoulder I used to think it was me hurting my shoulder but I realised it’s all to do with my cycle! Also wondered if nose bleeds are related too as I get them monthly with my periodxx

  246. blueprint

    Howdy I am so happy I found your web site, I really found
    you by accident, while I was searching on Aol for something else, Anyways I am here
    now and would just like to say thanks a lot for a remarkable post and a
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  247. Melissa

    Hi Dawn,;)
    Glad you found my site too. Congrats on having two kids. There are plenty of choices after the lap – though none of which you will find beneficial are in the doctors office 🙂 When you are ready and certain it is endo, come back to my site and you will find heaps of options.
    The links you describe are also links to other imbalances in the body – but our healing process is the same, no matter what the condition. Stay in touch and let us know how you are 🙂

  248. Dawn

    Hi there, I possibly have endo, diagnosed by myself after months of reasearch, initally I suffered the pain (all of the above) then had a few months of various antibiotics for infections etc, finally got a gynae appt who told me their was nothing wrong with me (from my understanding there are quite a few who dont specialise or choose not to deal with) I then found a website that gives you the best consultants in ur area (drfosterhealthcare) I paid 250 pounds 8 weeks ago to see the best in my area and having my lap on tge 25th of may, looking forward to getting some answers tho still scared of the choices I will have to make after the lap. Im 33 with 2 children so will not be aimed at fertility, tho I cannot take chemical hormones (pill etc) so I know my options are limited! Will report back after my lap tho!
    Thank you for this website, there are a few things on ur list that I have been suffering with but never came across b4, the cold body, I am freezing all the time but would never have put it down to endo, I suffer with shoulder pain too and a constant runny nose would this be related?

  249. charlie

    i have all these symptons and been doubled over in pain for years without it being sorted and amitted to hosptial about 15 times and finally got key-hole surgery doctor said i had tear damage on womb and bowel n was ment to have sorted it but still in so much pain its unbearable and now refering back to get it confirmed i have endometriosis as finally worked out that its usually week before my period its worse and i can hardly walk with the pain in side and back. does this sound like it to you? thanks

  250. Anonymous

    Hi, I can completely relate to this. I have 11 out of the 20 symptoms, but this one is also defiantly on my list. For me it is a sudden urge, and I’m not a big by any means.

  251. Melissa

    Hi Alison,
    It is more than likely a condition called Interstitial Cystitis. It is essentially an inflammed bladder. I get it too 🙂 The best solution I have found is drinking bicarbonate of soda with water (one teaspoon in a glass), twice a day. Also, cornsilk works wonders. Drinking heaps of water is really important and alcohol makes it heaps worse! Check out this blog article for more ideas: http://endoempowered.com/interstitial-cystitis-relate-endometriosis/

  252. Alison Wiltshire

    Does any one suffer with there bladder i keep getting pain when i have empty out my bladder at the end. And keep feel like i need to go more often. I have been to the doctors thinking i have bladder infection but the results come back clear. They gave me antibiotic but nothing worked. Ended up at the hospital they didnt no what was wrong and let me go in pain with no pain killers.does any one think ive got endo in my bladder not sure what the syptoms are.

  253. Britney

    I’m really glad I found your article. The PMS xs 10 really hit home. My question is, how do you tell the difference between PMDD and endo PMS or are they the same. When I was younger I was diagnosed with bipolar but I never fully agreed because my moods revovled around my period, or so inoticed as I got older. Nothing could explain my physical pain and after various testing all the drs could find was a vitamin D deficiency. Which has since been corrected, yet my symptoms stayed the same. The thing is that I have a lot of pain that is associated with endo. My gyno belives that I have endo. However he will not do a larascopy as he feels he’d rather try treatment first. So how do I know if I have endometriosis or PMDD? Does endometriosis PMS mimic PMDD symptoms?

  254. Melissa

    Hi Jen and welcome to my blog 🙂
    Oh sweets… endo is totally emotional and your desire for alcohol at your period is totally understandable! Hell, alcohol eases the pain and makes it all more bearable!
    I am not sure why you would crave alcohol in particular. I personally crave chocolate! I figured out that my craving for chocolate was partly a lack of magnesium but also it was soothing my inner child- if that makes sense.
    I have heard somewhere that alcohol is often something people crave when they need to alkalise their body. All I suggest is to drink heaps of alkalising drinks and foods. The best ones are Spirulina, Chlorella and blue green algae. Maybe make up a mixture of these with apple juice – they can taste quite strong. Or take a double dose of them during your monthly. Also, just eat heaps of raw green stuff 🙂 Hope it helps. Let me know 🙂

  255. Jen

    I have recently been diagnosed with endo. My question is, everytime its around the time of my period I want to drink alcohol. The issue is that it is effecting my relationship because I act like an emotional wacko when I drink during my period. I’m fine any other time, up until I’n around my menstration, then mot only do I physically crave it, but I can’t fight the impulse to drink around my period. Does anyone else experience this? Is it possible to have endo and pmdd? Is this possibly a hormone problem from endo? Any advice of how to fix it?

  256. Melissa

    Hi Nienie,
    Endometriosis can affect women after childbirth and even women who have had a hysterectomy. If you have colon cancer in the family, I would really focus on your bowels and get them working at their optimum. Check out my article on fermented foods for more ideas. http://endoempowered.com/fermented-foods-candida/

  257. Nienie

    Hi Mellissa
    Thanks for your reply but I just wondered from my symptoms do you think I could have endo I have been in horrible pain again today all in my pelvis and lower back and also in my thighs it makes me feel sick , do woman suffer with this if they have had children or is it less likely I am just scared it could be something else as my sister of 29 passed away last nov from colon cancer I have had a colonoscopy and it was all ok but I think its always in the back of your mind , cancer that is.
    Thankyou in advance.

  258. Melissa

    It is hard to say, based on your brief description. The only sure way is to have a laparoscopy. It sounds more like bowel troubles than endo but you never know.

  259. Sarah

    Hi,
    I have problems with my bowel movements and stomach bloating for a long time. I sometimes get terrible pain in my stomach and lower back and have no control over going to the toilet. The pain is so severe and I only find relief once I go to the toilet. l have never really suffered from bad period pain but when I am ovulating I often wake up in pain. I had stomach cramps a few months ago and I went to the doctor and was told I had an inflamed bowel. I am also extremely emotional and cry very easily. I have been told by family and friends that I could have endometriotis. What are your thoughts.

  260. Melissa

    Hi Nienie,
    You are welcome and I am glad it has helped you!
    You can feel better – just keep reading and you will find heaps of info 🙂

  261. Melissa

    It sounds like it could be Endometriosis but you will need to see a Gynaechologist to make 100% sure. Take care.

  262. shannon

    am aged 24 but every since i started ma periods i have had severe painful periods and pains before my periods.
    and i also feel as if some thing like a something is present at the left side down in the pelvis as if i would like to remove it
    i also feel like wounds peeling off i cant stretch or move at all, talk am like drained
    the pain moves gradually increasing in that it cut short of ma breath to the point where i faint or losses oxygen supply and cant even talk
    i also experience painful sex
    the pain starts from any up or down, or side ways but covers the all pelvis
    it also affects my gastrointestinal so i tend to like being in the toilet so i can get out wht ever it is and release at of bad air and wastes.
    i feel nausea, sick at times heavy breast i dont wht wrong with me

  263. Melissa

    It is hard to say but the key one with endometriosis is period pain. You could have Candida overgrowth, which also shares these symptoms – many endo girls also have this. I would recommend getting into some fermented foods or a good probiotic and you will be amazed at how much better you will feel. If you are not getting answers from doctors, why not try a natural health practitioner like a Naturopath or Traditional Chinese Doctor. They are more likely to give you some support and answers.

  264. Melissa

    Hi Ashley,
    It’s okay sweets. There are many of us who share these symptoms and you can get better. I would get your hormones checked first and foremost as cancer in the family is definitely a sign of oestrogen dominance. Once you know where you are at, you can address that in natural ways. My favourite method is to focus on healing the liver but you can also use progesterone creams or herbal remedies – check with us first before deciding 🙂
    Period pain and pain during sex is definitely not normal and it is a good thing you found my site and can do something to get better.
    The only way to know if it is definitely Endometriosis is to have a Laparoscopy. Though you will find relief in knowing what you have, your approach to healign the body is always the same. Start with your diet and detoxing the body and you will feel better already. Check out my introduction category for more ideas. http://endoempowered.com/category/about-endometriosis/

  265. Nienie

    Hello I am so glad I found your site it is amazing how many woman have this , I am due my first appointment on sat with a specialist my GP thinks I could have endo I have suffered with period like pain and lower back pain with rectal pressure everyday for 2yrs now I dred the day my period starts its so painful in my lower back and pelvis I’m so tired all the time, sex can be painful but it’s more afterwards I get the pain and aching thighs and hips, after reading a lot of story’s of other woman with this disease it makes me think I might not have this as I have 3 wonderful children my eldest is 12 and my youngest is 7 could this be the case I do not want this but it would be great to find out want is going on with my body so it can be sorted , I just feel like a old woman and I’m only 31 I should be feeling great .
    Thanks again for taking the time to write this web page it’s so nice to hear other people’s stories Hope everyone is feeling better soon and gets sorted xxxx

  266. Ashley

    Hi, I’m a young adult and have found myself having absolutely every symptom you have listed. I’ve always had terrible, terrible periods since they began back when I was 13 and this runs in the family as well with my mom so I dismissed the pain as just a normal thing. But my periods are usually 7 days long, but even seem to last longer at times. They’re ridiculously heavy about the first 3-4 days (basically a super tampon every hour or two) and barely able to handle. Almost always I vomit on the first day of my period, and have very strange bowls and diarrhea and ten constipation, but it’s not uncommon for me to have weird bowls, Ive always had them. And pain pills usually only work enough to knock me out from my period pain exhaustion. I’ve always been very very emotional, and actually worry about it affecting my relationship with my boyfriend. My skins always been super sensitive. I have severe bloating with my abdomen right now, to the point of me looking pregnan and this has rapidly gotten worse over about a month, maybe longer. But it makes me feel extremely self conscious and I haven’t gained weight… I also have hypothyroidism so I’m constantly tired to begin with. And sex does seem to hurt, I was thinking this was normal because I honestly haven’t done it much but I get pulsing cramps after intercourse and even feel sore in that area the next day or so… And this all just really worries me and has been stressing me out… I just feel disgusting 24/7. Could this be a possibility…? I’ve worried about it so much because ovarian cancer runs in my family so any issues relating to sex an down in that region really freaks me out… How does this get diagnosed and treated…? I’m just rather confused. Thankyou for the article though!

  267. Sierra

    Hi my name is sierra and im only 14 years old. I was looking online to see if i could find whats wrong with me and i found this website. i have 13 things that i am going through thats in this list. When ever I go to the hospital when im in alot of pain but they dont know whats wrong i go to the doctor and they dont know what wrong and neither do I. The things that are bothering me is Digestive issues, lower back pain,.Back aching and tension in the shoulders, Feeling cold often, Sore Breasts, Headaches, Migraines, Feeling tired when you get up in the morning, Other inflammations in the body, Poor skin health, Puffy eyes or eye troubles, Allergies, Bloating in the abdominal area, Eczema and skin conditions, and i also have asthma. Any one know what could be wrong.(Note i already had my period for the month)

  268. Melissa

    Hi Alison,
    I am sorry the doctor you went to see was so unhelpful. Sometimes, they do unfortunately just don’t know about Endometriosis or make the connection that this could be the reason for your pain. From the symptoms you describe, it certainly sounds like endo. Are you able to see another doctor? Unfortunately, it seems that the only way to know for sure if it is endo, is to get the laparoscopy. If it is endo, you can follow heaps of the ideas on this blog to alleviate it. I would start with looking at your diet. Perhaps, look at when you are in the most pain – as in, what foods make it worse. Foods that contain corn syrup are often culprits, food that contain gluten and other inflammatory foods.
    Thing is, whether it is endo or ibs or any other condition, your process towards healing is the same – you need to give the body it needs to heal. Detox it first, then supply it with the relevant nutrients. Much like you would give a dying plant the right nutrients for the soil 🙂
    Please let us know how you go and if you manage to find a more sympathetic doctor. Natural holistic doctors are often much more sympathetic.
    Oh, about the eye thing. I used to get really sore eyes, it honestly felt like I had glass in my eyes. I only had it when I went on the pill. It seems to have gone now that I am no longer on the pill. My eyes are still really sensitive though. The eyes are apparently connected to our liver – which of course makes perfect sense 🙂

  269. Alison Wiltshire

    Hi i have just been to see my gyn on thursday 29th they told me i have ibs. I really think i do not have this because i do not suffer with diarrhoea or constipation.All i said to them is i go to the poo more when im on my period but not diarrhoea ? she did a pelvic Examination i got pain at the begining but then it got better. I have alway had pain when having sex with my husband.I also have really heavy periods and the pain is so bad each month i can not walk.I did’nt think period pains was connected to ibs. I get pain in my lower back sharp stabbing pains in my left side.3 weeks out of 4 i am in pain i feel they dont want to help me and telling me i have ibs is an easy way out. my gp wants me to have laparoscopy but because my gyn said i have ibs i don’t think they will give me one.Really upset i feel i didn’t say anoth when i was in there but i was really stressed out . one more thing does any one get stinging in there eyes like someone has put chilly in them. At first i thought i had hay fever but i still had it in the winter is this a sympton.

  270. Melissa

    Hi Donna,
    I am sorry to hear of your endless struggles and the pain you are enduring. I can highly recommend a supplement called Exclzyme. It eats away the dead cells in our bodies and will also help with your digestive area too. I am truly sorry you have to endure such daily struggles. I do hope you are able to conceive as you sound like a wonderful person. http://endoempowered.com/serrapeptase/
    Also, here is a free ebook I wrote to help you conceive. http://endoempowered.com/pregnant-endometriosis/

  271. Donna

    I have a three year old, and have been trying for another child for two years, though I have endometriosis rectally, in the ovaries, and on the uterious. I first felt my rectal pains when I was 6 months pregnant with my son, but thought it had to do with pregnancy, then my pains became more severe, feeling like everytime I used the restroom or farting, like someone was ripping my intestence out of my butt. I also have abdomin pains that never go away, but get worse. I also have had my cycle for 5 months straight. I was diagnose with endo June of last year through laboroscopy, and I go to a pain specialist for my rectal pains and next week I have surgery to destroy the nurve with alcohol. I had the block done which lasted for three months but since I cant take out my rectal, I have to manage the pain. I have a wonderful doctor who is taking great care of me. I refuse to get a hysterectomy since we are still trying for another child. I also am going for the depo shot, and im quite scared I may never come out of menopause but its a better chance then a hysterectomy. I was also told by my pain management doctor that pain killers wont take the pain away and make it worse for those who have endo rectally, since pain killers harden the poop.
    I was devistated to find out I had endometriosis. I wanted to commit suicide at one point because of the severe pain and bleeding and everything you had on here, was my symptom, then I realized how lucky I was to atleast have my son, and a wonderful husband who supports me. Endometriosis does effect my life but I wont allow it to effect me as a person. I don’t show the amount of pain I am constantly in, and I put a smile on my face and continue life. I am also going to college to become a medical assistant, and in the future I will go back to college and become a RN.

  272. Melissa

    Sorry to hear of your struggles and that the only option seems to be a hysterectomy. Have you read the story of Carolyn? It might give you some new ideas 🙂 She had bad endo too. http://endoempowered.com/there-is-a-cure/

  273. Trenda

    I was diagnosed with endo back in December after having a laparo surgery done. The doctor was going in to do the laparo and an endometrial ablation. Well he ended up taking one ovary and removing a cyst. The ablation was not done due to how bad the endo was. The doctor said I was the worst endo he’s ever seen. Before the surgery I described to him how much pain I’m always in and that I have lived with this pain for more then 10 years now. Like most doctors he thought I was making things up until the day I had the surgery. So now I’m scheduled to have a hysterectomy on June 4 and I’m a bit nervous. All the women (9) in my family have had a hysterectomy and have nothing but good things to say about it. Luckily I have a two year old and I’m afraid to get pregnant again because the doctor said it could be dangerous. I understand woman’s pain that has to deal with this disease. I wish more doctors were familiar with endo.

  274. Melissa

    Of course you will be able to Binks. You are doing the right thing in finding my site 🙂 Just take care of your body and you will be able to conceive. Check out the free ebook – it will help you 🙂

  275. Binks

    I’m so so scared now after reading this. I suffer from a few of the issues mentioned andI’m getting married and we really would like a child. Im terrified now. Will I still be able to?

  276. Melissa

    Hi Mindy,
    Endometriosis can grow quite rapidly in some women and in others it simply stays at the same stage. I had a friend who had it for years and still managed to have a child. It depends on the severity of your endo. You don’t have to have a laparoscopy to have a child and you can “treat” yourself to allow yourself to have a child. I did a free ebook on what you can do, a few weeks back:
    http://endoempowered.com/pregnant-endometriosis/

  277. Mindy

    Hi Melissa!
    This article is so spot on! I’ve suffered from this since I was 13 y/o
    and still it is left untreated, and I had bn to 3 different fertility docs.
    It was actually a chiropractor when I was 21 who told me that due
    to my tilted pelvis he thinks I could have endo and I should have it
    checked out. Needless to say, for lack of insurance, it is still left
    untreated. Any thoughts on LT untreated endo /infertility?
    My husband and I want a child, and I know that I would need to be
    treated, but since it was left untreated all this time, what are the
    odds of not ever being able to conceive? I am now 36 y/o

  278. Melissa

    It’s okay. You can have a baby. Just go the natural route and it will all be okay 🙂

  279. Anonymous

    so scared reading this i have so many of these ive just got married and want a baby im so worried

  280. Jasmin

    Hi, im so happy to have read this. I have had bladder infections and extremely bad period pains where ive had to call the ambulance and i have only just been diagnosed with endo. For 5years i seen doctors and specialists over and over, been poked and prodded. Finally i was the 1 that said to my doctor that it could be endo and i have finally been diagnosed! Tiredness is a huge symptom for me, along with painful sex and have had my period for over 4weeks now. Getting a laproscopy done in a few months so cant wait 🙂 it was great to read your article, it put things together for me

  281. Melissa

    Hi Leah,
    It could be many things, as I am sure you know. It will be okay sweets. Maybe cut out Gluten as this seemed to help heaps with the bloating for me – I also get pain on the left side 🙂

  282. Melissa

    Hi Deborah,
    I am glad you found some things that have helped your poor daughter. She is very lucky to have you! – as I am sure I mentioned before 🙂
    I would really recommend a Colonic irrigation. It has made a huge difference to how I feel and it helps with back pain and tension too. All the best and please let me know if you would like any help 🙂

  283. leah

    Hi melissa. I have had abdominal pains since I was 15yrs old and recently over the last 7months I have had bloatyness which is really bad its the same when I eat or don’t eat and my left side hurts I’m due to be admitted to the hospital to see if I have ibs which I’m scared about 🙁 I just want to know what’s wrong with me.

  284. Deborah

    Hi Melissia my daughter who is only 15 but has been having this problem since she was 14 seems to be totally debilitated by this terrible disease. She has terrible nausea every day shooting pains all over her body. Hot and cold flushes, Terrible stomach pains can hardly eat. Is depressed (who can blame her). She has all those symptoms and thats not even when she has her period then she has all the pain from that on top of everything else. I have just started with a host of natural treatments as main stream doctors don’t seem to have any answers we have been seeing an Osteopath which I had taken her to previously and that did seem to help . We have started Reflexolgy sessions and also seeing a Homeopath I think I have more faith in her than anyone else. Thanks so much for this great site and all your hard work.

  285. Melissa

    Hi Annonymous,
    It sounds like you have been to hell and back! There are two things I would recommend you do. The first one is fairly easy and will totally change your craving for sugar, back pain, aches, tiredness and food intolerances. It is a Colonic. It flushes out all the old debris and bacteria sitting in your bowels. Anti-biotics would have killed any hope of developing your own natural good bacteria in the gut and it is likely that you are suffering from a Leaky Gut Syndrome and possibly Candida (sugar craving).
    When you are feeling stronger, get a Liver Flush done. You can do this yourself but it is probably safer to have it done with a Naturopath. It will clean out your liver and expel all the toxic build up in your body.
    It is toxins in our body that create more endometriosis and the sooner we flush them out of our liver the better.
    Naturally a good diet, herbal supplements focusing on the liver and superfoods will help too but ultimately we need to start from scratch and give your body a fighting chance to heal.
    Let me know how you go and all the best,
    Melissa

  286. Anonymous

    Hi, I’m an endrometriosis suffer! Had a partical hysterectamy last year plus an extra op few weeks after developing a blood clot lower down in my pelvis which had burst but stayed connected t my intestines which twisted and burst where I nearly died! It’s been 7 months since the op and I believe all my symptoms have come back! I’ve now had 3 possible water infections, results came back negative but my doctor keeps prescribing antibiotics when I have said the disease is back! But they don’t seem interested in getting me refered back t gyrny and have test done! I’ve told them I have persistent burning pain, swelling of lower adomine, intolerance t certain foods, very thirsty, in need of surgar which I crave, continuous sore throats and wet nose, skin irritation, back ach, legs continuously throb like my back hip t hip, sore breasts, legs n boobs swell, whole body aches, tired all the time! Had a hormone test up the hospital results came back normal! Due bloods again, my GP thinks the disease will be picked up in my bloods, not the case I’ve told him! Told him it took 18months from this practice 1 doctor t decide t have me refered t hospital for tests where I was diagnosed with this disease! In those 18months I was fed continuous amount of antibiotics and food drinks cus I losted loads of weight t a size 4! I believe this disease is back and spreading! What should I be doing next as this disease coated everything inside. Thanks for listening and it is very frustrating being a sufferer when doctors and consultants don’t quite understand us when we tell them what’s happening with our body!

  287. Melissa

    Hi Becca,
    It is so confusing! I know 🙂
    The meat thing is bad for endo as it is often from poor sources of meat. Our poor animals just don’t get treated the best and are fed things like corn and soy products. These contain high amounts of Omega 6, which throws out the ratio of good oils in our bodies – basically they cause inflammation. I know there is heaps of propaganda about protein – I think it is the meat and dairy marketing personally 🙂
    http://endoempowered.com/endometriosis-pain/
    I get my protein from Spirulina, Quinoa, whey protein shakes and heaps of super foods. Meat is just hard for us to digest and creates excess fat for the liver too….

    There is one supplement which I haven’t had a chance to report back to on yet – it is called Vitalzym, Exclzyme/Serrapeptase – all very similar but Serrapeptase is the most important ingredient. It actually dissolves cysts and dead cells in the body. I have been on it for 3months and the results have been amazing! – I shall do a video post on it just for you tomorrow 🙂

    The severity of symptoms is not always indicative of the severity of endometriosis cysts. Sometimes they just don’t sit on areas that are painful and other times they can be quite a little but cause a heap of pain. For peace of mind, it might be better to have the surgery to make sure – if you are worried about it. It sometimes helps us also feel better just knowing what we have 🙂

    Let me know how you go and all the best Becca.
    Hugs, Melissa

  288. Becca

    Thanks for this site and the article, as well as your detailed feedback to all of the comments. It’s hard to sort out information on this, and there is a lot here!

    I recently have been told that I need to have laparoscopic surgery to remove ovarian cysts that my GYN suspects are related to endometriosis. I have had a few instances in my life with severe abdominal pain due to what doctors now believe have been cyst ruptures. However, I don’t have many other symptoms of endometriosis. I am not in pain most of the time, and while I do get cramps around my period, I was always told everyone else did too!

    Of the above symptoms, I would say I have some period cramps as well as some digestive issues (ahem) and bloating at the start of my period. I do also sometimes experience what I thought was “ovulation pain” mid-cycle. I just always thought these things were “normal,” and they’ve never interrupted my life. I’m nervous about the surgery, but I’m at a loss for what else to do, since the cysts do not appear to be going away. I’m just wondering if severity of symptoms correlates at all with the severity of endo (and hoping it does…I’m afraid of their finding horrible things in my abdomen!).

    Also, I was wondering about the meat thing, since I’ve heard from other sources that getting ENOUGH animal protein is a concern. It’s all so confusing!

  289. Melissa

    Hi Maxine,
    I am sorry to hear of your struggles sweets. You are not a hypercontridact at all! We are all going through this stuff, on some level or another! You are right in how you feel and it is annoying that no-one gets this!
    Your symptoms surely indicate endo but might have to see what the doc finds. The bladder infection could be causing additional pain but no they can’t detect endo from a bladder test. Try some Castor Oil packs in the meantime and you’ll feel heaps better. http://endoempowered.com/castoroil_for_endometriosis/

  290. Maxine

    Hi, I have been suffering for years with all the above symptoms. When I have been to the doctors I thought I would sound like a hypercondriact if I list all the symptoms together.. And the pain is constant… But gets worse around the time of my period, but there isn’t a day in the month anymore wen I’m not in pain. My skin has been bad for a long time but was just my face like acne, now I have rashes and spots all over my stomach and arms, I’m very forgetful, I don’t know if this a symptom but it is starting to cause me concern..bin told I have ibs, prone to migraine I have headaches daily and my last migraine came and went for 3 wks was treated with morphine at the hospital it was so bad… I’m just sick of being in pain now and feel like well maybe I am just bein soft… I have pain in my back down my legs and in between my shoulders that gets so sore I it hurts to hold my head up.. They took a urine sample from me today at the doctors he now thinks I have a urine infection and get the results by Wednesday if anything is found, can endo be detected from a urine sample? I feel like I am being a hypocondriac and to top it all off I lost my job today because I have had time off due to pain. I’m at my wits end to be honest x

  291. Melissa

    Hi Nicole,
    You are totally not crazy and it brilliant that you are doing your own research and figuring out more about your body!
    There are heaps of better options other than just surgery or IUD. Try Serrapeptase. It is a natural product which literally eats away scar tissue and adhesions! It is brilliant!
    Other than that, it is a good idea to clean out your body with a good detox or colonic. I know it sounds extreme but you will feel soooo much better and it is really not as bad as it sounds – I am going to the colonic place next week to do a live broadcast 🙂
    Here is my experience:
    http://endoempowered.com/colonic-for-endometriosis/

  292. Nicole

    Hello all. When I seen this my eyes really opened! I am 19 and was just diagnosed with endometriosis, but at first I was diagnosed with adenomeiosis, a similar problem. The doctors believe that the adenomeiosis evolved to endo but it is seeding which is almost impossile to cure even with surgery. I have had pain ever since I can remember when it comes to my menstrual period and intercourse. I know being 19 is young to worry about sex but I am in a committed relationship for over two years. I have always had pain during intercourse and it would get worse afterward for the next few days. The pain become horribly bad a few months ago which is when they did extensive testing. What I find ironic is that I suffer from IBS, sleep fragmentation, eye aches, I am totally addited to sugar (thought that was just me being a girl lol), I have had shoulder and back pain since 16. Why nobody notices all of these symptoms at once is beyond me. They have gave me the option to either have an IUD or surgery. The IUD scares the hell out of me and I have only heard bad things about it, and surgery is just as risky. I would just like to say thanks for posting this and showing me that I am not crazy!!!

  293. Naomi:)

    I have had bad abdo pain 4 years, horrible periods and headaches now today after suffering nausea vertigo, sweating, chest pain, tummy pain the runs,cramps and constipation I have been told I’m being referred to an gyne with suspected endometriosis ! My tummy is swollen and I’m at my wits end have no energy and worried about my 8 month old because I am in that much pain at times and my Hubby is in the army. I was told I will be having surgical procedure.. Anyone know the ins and outs of this. Ie how long in hospital. ? Pls

  294. Melissa

    Hi Crystal. Endometriosis can grow and take over much of the lower abdominal cavity, which can cause pain and also infertility. Though we do inherit many of the diseases within our families, we can also do something about it, by treating the body better than perhaps they were able to. I know when I visited my Naturopath, she said I had done remarkably well considering my gene pool!
    You can take control over your health by giving your body what it needs to heal. Cutting things out and surgeries are not the only option. The body does actually know how to heal – we just need to provide it with what it needs to do that.
    I wish you all the best and big hugs from me and everyone here!

  295. Crystal

    I just recently found out I have endometriosis with ovarian cyst. They also seen fluid in there through a CT scan. I am about to go to my first appointment concerning this health issuse. I have no clue about what all endo can do, andif I have to have surgery? I do know I seen were this can be passed through your genes and my grandmother on my dad’s side had ovarian cancer this scares me, if I had this would they be able to tell through a CT scan any info or suggestions would be greatly appreciated Thank you, Crystal Nisbet

  296. Melissa

    Hi Barbara,
    I am sorry for your struggles! Antibiotics will play havoc with your digestive system and has probably thrown out the Candida balance in your body. I would get onto a really strong Probiotic or get yourself some Exclzyme/Vitalzym – I did a blog on it a recently. The diarrhea, exhaustion and acne are all sings of that this could be Candida overgrowth. Stay away from wheat or grains and sugar too. If you are in a warmer climate, get out in the sun or if you can get a device that mimicks the sun. Candida loves dark, warm and moist spaces – our bodies. We want to reduce it’s overgrowth by drying it out and stop feeding it. The Candida will also affect your endo and PMS. I have done a few articles on Candida, just type “Candida” in the search box and you should get some video’s and info on it.
    http://endoempowered.com/candida-endometriosis-pain/
    http://endoempowered.com/personal-experience-candida-recognise/
    http://endoempowered.com/candida-and-endometriosis/

  297. Barbara

    I am 23 and have had painful periods for as long as I can remember, starting early this year they started getting too heavy especially on the second and third day. Then about four months ago i started spotting and having them for about a week, with a lot of nausea that stayed on even after the period, so i practically had nausea everyday. so after a month i went to the docyor and was tested for UTI which i had and was given primolut N for hormones to regulate my period, there was no difference after that and i had to go to the doctor again and this time i was sent for a abdomonal/pelvic ultra sound where i was told that my uterus is extremely infected and they were worried that the antibiotics i had taken for the UTI didn’t help with that, then i was found to also have endometriosis and fluid in the puch of douglas. All this time i had nausea, lower back ache and severe headaches daily. so i started on treatment, i was given antibiotics, orgametril for 6 months and a couple of other types of medication, after about a month the nausea has been on the decrease, i have just completed my second month of orgametril, the spotting was still there for last period but everything else had gone. Now again for the last three days, the nausea, headaches, lower back pain, stomach pains that sometimes feel like i have diarrhoea, sweating, exhaustion in the morning, and i have had acne for about a month now. I am now confused as to whether i am improving or getting worse.

  298. Melissa

    It is my pleasure Britt! Keep in touch and let us know what happens 🙂 I am here for you – hugs Melissa

  299. Britt

    Thank you so much for posting this! I’ve been suffering through extremely painful periods for the last 5 years and couldn’t figure out why, The pain started after I had a miscarriage (ectopic pregnancy) in 2005. The pain has just gotten worse over the years and like others, I take several over-the-counter pain relievers to help dull the pain. Found your article and felt like it was directed at me! 🙂 I’ve had most of the symptoms mentioned especially the sugar craving! I never had much of a sweet tooth, but over the last couple of years, I have an intense craving and feel “off” when I try to cut it out of my diet. Thanks to your article, I’m going to try cutting out gluten and make an appointment with a doctor ASAP!!

  300. Melissa

    Hi Jackie,
    I am sorry to hear of your struggles everyday 🙁
    There are a few things you can do, before your op. Cut out Gluten from your diet. I can’t believe what a difference this makes – especially since I had some yesterday and boy have those symptoms come back 3 fold! Secondly, get yourself a Castor Oil pack. They are really affordable and stimulate the lymphatic system. http://endoempowered.com/castoroil_for_endometriosis/
    The other changes take some time. But here is a great overview article to give you some ideas: http://endoempowered.com/10-things-you-can-do-to-help-your-endometriosisright-now/
    It will get better…. it has to! Here for you if you need me. Big hugs and take it easy before and after the op. http://endoempowered.com/how-to-prepare-for-your-laparoscopy-operation-for-endometriosis/

  301. Jackie

    Hi! Thanks for putting this up! I’ve never understood why I had almost all those symptoms but after reading this I don’t feel alone. I’m 28 and I was told I have endometrioma. I started having severe pelvic pain for 4 months. It makes me feel so depressed that I can’t do anything. Just standing for 30 minutes causes pain. I hate going to work everyday because I constantly feel pain. It’s so bad that I’ve taken motrin, aspirin and Aleve every day, but now I need more than 1,000 mg of motrin, but even then the pain is not all gone. I will have laparoscopy surgery to remove it but not until Jan 11. What can I do meanwhile to relieve some of the pain. I’m so drained and tired of not being able to be active cuz it begins hurting so bad. I feel like I’m getting worse everyday. My husband is supportive but I feel bad for always complaining, especially when i work and for not being able to do anything.
    Thanks!

  302. Melissa

    Hi Jet,
    It is my pleasure! I hope you find out what is causing all this pain and struggling! Maybe explore chinese medicine or a naturopath for some other answers – doesn’t sound like the doctors have helped you much 🙂
    If you really love meat, try eating organic at least that way you won’t get all the hormones and nasty stuff with it!

  303. JET

    Hi Melissa. I am 16 years old, and have been having very extreme period pain since about may 2010. I was in the er every month until I was put on birth control, which helped for abput a year. I had stomach pain after eating, and i was reffered to a G.I. doctor who put me on a medicine that was supposed to expand your stomach so I could eat again. For couple months I was great, but then the period pain became bad again and I was put on a different birth control pill. The doctor said it was a higher dose but Ive been on it for about a month and i have felt sick every day. The doctors have considered many things, and found out I have thyroide disease, but also think I could have endo. I have almost every symptom, and have been researching about it. I just want to thank you for this site, because it has helped me feel like im less of a weirdo lol. I am trying a diet, but I am a total meat lover, and I dont think I could ever be a vegitarian. Any comments would be great:)

  304. Melissa

    Congratulations on your son and finding a way to feel better. What is iavetic medicine? Not heard of that one? Diet and gluten helped me tremendously….
    So horrible that it took that long to find it! Luckily, you know where to go now 🙂 right here!

  305. Sarah

    I just found your blog and it has made me feel like I am not alone . I am about to turn 30 and I have been in pain since I was thirteen it took until I was 21 for any one to figure out I had endo by that time I was in a horrible way. I had a lapro operation and they found I had moderate endo which apparently for a 21 year old my doc said was very rare they burnt it out and for three months I was in bliss I felt amazing I remember thinking this is how other people live . It didn,t last though and it came back with vengeance. Since then I have tried many things I took an iavetic med that not only made me feel well but I got pregnant as well. I have a son and many people talk about feeling better after although I did it was very sort lived. I am about to try to change my diet and remove gluten and see how it goes
    Thank you for your wonderful info!

  306. Melissa

    Hi Rebecca and welcome to my blog 🙂 You can feel better, just keep reading my blog and you will find heaps of valuable info! You are never alone… there are heaps of us out here 🙂 You can cope without all those medications – I know cos I was just like you for a while there. Start with one thing at a time and slowly find your own bodies healing powers 🙂

  307. Rebecca

    Thankyou thankyou thankyou!
    I’m 20 and have had problems with my period since I was about 15. Before that, I was regular as clockwork (even though it was painful).
    Things got real bad about two years ago and I went for ultrasounds, pap smears, blood tests, hormone therapy (which ended up with me in ER suffering contractions even though i wasnt pregnant) etc, eventually find an awesome gyno who managed to put me on a pill with one hormone – this in conjunction with implanon made everything more manageable and I was able to have sex without pain or blood for the first time!!

    Now, 8 months later, things have gone backwards again. I’m going in for surgery soon to see if I have endo, but the doctor is 99% sure I have it severely – and reading this blog makes me realise that all my problems are due to endo.
    I sleep 8+ hours and feel exhausted, and am on anti depressants (a decent dose) because of my extreme moods….I’ve had that dull pain in my stomach and I have a period every 7 days (with spotting a couple of days either side)..during which I need to take Panadene Forte in order to sleep, and a mixture of other pain killers to deal with the days.
    I also have really bad acne (currently being controlled by antibiotics).

    I hate being on so much medication, but I can’t cope otherwise! Seeing this blog has really helped, and if anyone has any other suggestions, please feel free to contact me….I feel utterly alone in this and not sure how to cope.

  308. Deb

    Thank you so much! seriously, ive had the endo for 5 years and never realized how many things i have wrong with me are all from it, I never wake up fully i wear winter coats in all mornings and evenings of the day, and i could never figure out why my eyes bother me all the time. really thank you, i’ve done my share of research but never bothered to read a completely list of conditions. Now im not to sure that this is a symptom but since my endo’s been worse i find that i am never energized or motivated i almost feel as tho i am slowly dying and im to tired to care. Is this just myself or would that be also related to the endo?

  309. Melissa

    Hi Qq, I am sorry to hear of your miscarriages. Your body just needs to be be ready to carry a child. I am working on an ebook to show you how to do that, so it should be emailed to you when it is done 🙂 In the meantime, take care of yourself and maybe start meditation or Yoga. I find I feel so much stronger emotionally doing Yoga 🙂
    http://endoempowered.com/yoga-home-great-way-to-save-some-money-and-still-get-into-yoga/

    This article might help you too: http://endoempowered.com/how-to-change-the-way-you-think-of-your-endometriosis-and-your-body-5-easy-tips/

    Big hugs. All the best, Melissa

  310. Qq

    Hi Melissa, greetings from Indonesia!
    I almost cried when I first read this article. Looks like I have 99% of the symptoms. I’ve been married for 1,5 yrs and experienced a series of miscarriage. It’s not about the physical pains but emotional ones.

    I will soon see a gyno and try to make some adjustments regarding lifestyle (starting from eating habit!). Thanks again for the sharing. Im looking forward to your updates 🙂

  311. Melissa

    Hi Jade. Yes, definitely cut out gluten. Also check out my most recent articles under the Breakthrough category 🙂

  312. JADE

    Hi there.

    I have endm and after treatments i ha no more pain and was 100%. I now have all the symtoms and know for a fact it is back but refuse to go back for any ops. What are the natural ways of treaing it (foods, tablets, ect) I know gluten and yeast were the things I could not eat for 6 months should I do it again?

  313. Melissa

    Hi Rachel. If it helps at all, I used to feel all of those symptoms plus many more and now I only experience one or two. Start with your nutrition and focus on destressing as much as you can and you can get there too. Heaps of info on here, so keep searching and reading 🙂 Big hugs! It does get easier!

  314. Rachel

    Im 23years old after four years of going back and forth to different G.Ps and being told i have ibs and even “its a shame about that” by one male dr about my period pains i was sent to have a transvaginal scan which showed that my left ovary measures 33x54x41mm and is behind my uterus, a dermoid cyst and “internal echoes suggestive of endometriosis.” After reading the article I have most of the symptoms including always being cold my family always laugh at me as i can where a big coat in the middle of the summer. I am also always tired i can have 8hrs sleep then within a few hours ready to go bk to sleep. i have been refered to see a gynae consultant and have been waiting four months and have another two months before i see anyone, which is making me feel down as intercourse with my husband is unbearable and i sometime have to push him of me and i also fear that im infertile.

    Thanks its nice to know what causes my symptoms

  315. Melissa

    Hi Lara. I know alcohol used to be my friend like that too 🙂 You can get better just like me. Just keep reading and searching and the answers do come!

  316. Lara

    Thanks for your sharing and advice. I am def going to try your suggestions as I have tried many other things – my biggest thing is that I drink like a fish which is just tons of sugar and everything else my body does not need, but it helps to ease the pain / aggrivation at the end of each long day…. I need to be strong, be positive, be focussed and I am sincerely hoping that your blog will do the trick. Thanks for you honestly. God bless you and all the women who live with Endo 🙂 xxx

  317. Melissa

    Hi Rissa and sorry to hear of your struggles so far. It certainly sounds like Endometriosis which is often hard to diagnose just through an ultrasound. I would focus on healing your liver and changing your diet 180degress. Go off dairy, meat and gluten and you will feel heaps better within a few months. I used to be like you sweetie but now my pain is only once a month for a day. It does get easier 🙂

  318. Rissa

    i am 18 years old. i have been having trouble with my periods for about 3 or 4 months now. i was 11 years old when i had my first period. everything was normal. reading this article i have 19 out of the 20 symptoms you explained. i went to my gyno about a month ago and had a pap smear, everything came out normal so i just thought it was my period acting up. my cramps got worse so i wound up in the er one night after work they did a sonagram and a internal sonagram. i dont have any cysts but i was told my uterus is inflamed. i have a appointment to discuss endometriosis with my dr to see what he says. my mom and everyone i have talked to say it isnt normal to be experiencing all this pain for no reason. i have a slight pinching pain in my lower pelvic region 24/7. at times it is severe and at times its just there. when i go to pee it doesnt “burn” its more of a deep cramping feeling. i have period like symptoms 3 weeks out of the month! if i am lucky i get one week with very light pain. my stomach is always bloated. it feels like i just got done stuffing my face. i have this lower dull back ache all the time, i blamed it on carrying my backpack and on my feet working all the time but i have been off of work for 2 months out of the summer so now im rethinking this. when i am able to have a bowel movement it hurts extremely bad in my lower stomach, its like a gas cramp but it can get so severe i cant push so ill have to hold it in and just sit on the toilet and cry. i am extremely emotional 99% of the time. my bf has told me he’s getting tired of my attitude. i have been on antidepressants since i was around 15. when the pain gets so severe i get dizzy,light headed and ill even get slight nauseated.. i miss work and school at times. when the pain gets bad pain pills dont completely get rid of the pain. i have not been diagnosed with endo yet but i do have a strong feeling this is what i have. any comments or suggestions are greatly appreciated. 🙂 thanks

  319. Melissa

    Hi Trish. No problem at all 🙂 Endo can be passed on through the genes and it certainly sounds like you have many of the symptoms. I would get an ultrasound done just after your period as this gives you the best chance of trying to see abnormalities on the screen. It is more about telling your OBGYN all the symptoms you have. Tell her about IBS, Bladder infections and all the symptoms on this list. When you get them and when they flare up is vital. Also note what foods aggravate things. I noticed that gluten was massive in my healing. Yes, you can definitely improve your endo with your nutrition and the supplements I suggest on this site. It is all about creating perfect balance 🙂 Let us know how you go!

  320. TJS

    Thanks for the feedback and the quick response. I do not have IBS, urinary infections and I don’t think I get emotional too easy. I’m irritable around my period and that’s about it. I can always feel ovulation. And I just found out my paternal aunt had severe endo and had a hysterectomy 5 years ago. Can it be passed through genes? She never had kids. I will be reading more of your blog and I really appreciate and follow the body’s natural way to heal. When I go to the OBGYN are there any types of questions that I should ask to help diagnose what my issue is? If I follow some the diet suggestions, can it be healed or at least better the symptoms?

  321. Melissa

    Hi TJS. It certainly sounds like you could have Endometriosis. Unfortunately, it is quite a hard condition to detect with a Pap Exam or Ultrasound and often needs an internal exam to know for sure. One of the main symptoms are the painful periods. Also, you would likely have lumpy or clotting in the period itself (sorry for the graphic) Do you have bladder infections? Irregular bowel syndrome? Do you get emotional easily?
    It can cause infertility as the Endometriosis cells block the fallopian tubes which inhibits the sperm from getting to the ovaries. It really depends on where the endometriosis cells land and grow. There are completely natural ways of flushing out the Endometriosis, so please don’t worry about how to get it out. I have heaps of information on this blog on how to get the body to heal itself. Research any treatments options carefully before taking the first suggestion your OBGYN might suggest. I am here to help 🙂

  322. TJS

    Wow, I stumbled on this blog and I feel like it has been the best information since I started researching a week ago. For that, I thank you. Just recently, I had an awful cycle/period that actually kept me from daily routine and I missed a day of work.

    After I researched, I did some digging in to family history and looked back at my personal history. Truth is, I’ve always had painful menstrual cycles. I remember being diagnosed with Dysmenorrhea when I was a teen. My doc put me on birth control and it controlled the pain well for almost a decade. Almost all of the symptoms below, really. I got off of BC a few years ago and now the symptoms are back: Spotting 1-3 days before cycle begins, 24-hours of painful cramps (sometimes much longer), Severe bloating, Fatigued – no energy and sometimes painful sex (around cycle).

    It’s not like this every cycle, probably once every 3-4 cycles. But I still need pain killers every time as it is still painful enough. I’m wondering if I now may have Endometriosis. Does it sound like it? I have a pap exam with my OBGYN next month. What kinds of questions should I ask her when I go in to have it figured out? Does this disease really cause infertility? I’m concerned it could be causing a lot of scarring.

  323. Melissa

    Hi Sally and welcome 🙂 The gritty eyes was one I had for years while on the pill. Much better now. I found a few things helped. Cut out dairy – seems to come back the minute I have any. I also avoid all the nasty chemical ridden make-up and creams. I only use coconut oil on my skin and it does wonders. Apparently a few drops of coconut milk will heal your eyes instantly. It does get easier with time and patience. You are certainly not the only one 🙂

  324. Sally Sawkins

    I’ve was diagnosed with endometriosis 2-3 years ago, and had a laparoscopy 2 years ago this month, which improved my symptoms for a long while, but have noticed in the past few months nearly all the symptoms above are returning and making me feel miserable again, and the new symptom for me was the gritty eyes, I often wake up looking puffy eyed and tired before the day even begins…my painful periods are the only symptom that doesn’t seem to have made a reappearance, although ovulation pain can last 1-2 days for me. I constantly feel tired, and 1 month ago I became a grandmother, so I just want to feel well again and enjoy my little grandson rather than worrying about all the aches and pains I get every day. I also have IBS and am quite often bloated and uncomfortable. I have just said to my hubby that we are going shopping tomorrow to buy healthy foods and foods you recommend to see if I can get myself healthy again :o) Fingers crossed, but this site is a great help and it feels nice to know I’m not the only one feeling this way.

  325. sharon

    I am sorry you have Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.One of the most gifted Dr’s told me they run hand in hand.I actually have Hashimoto’s thyroiditis too.He was looking constantly for it after finding the Endo.I hope you try the natural way before doing too many invasive things first. Remember Hashimoto’s thyroiditis can affect you getting pregnant too.Perhaps tying to work on that naturally will help. I have been doing this over the past few months with amazing results even though all Dr’s said I couldnt beat Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. I am also working on my Endo that way too!I hope for the very best for you & I hope for good news of a baby soon 🙂

  326. Melissa

    Hi Jayju. I hope I can alleviate some of your concerns. Your recovery really depends on the severity of your endo. My last operation only took 10days cos they didn’t find any endometriosis. The first 5 were more like 3-4weeks. It really depends.
    It sounds like the pill is making your endo worse. http://endoempowered.com/should-i-take-the-contraceptive-pill-for-my-endometriosis/
    It may be worth considering a natural alternative 🙂
    Endo doesn’t need to become your life. It is really up to you and the choices you make for your body 🙂

  327. jayju

    I have most of the symptoms, but some I don’t. The nausea for me is a massive problem, I literally get nausea every day, it seems to be related to heat and becomes worse if I am in a situation where I think it would be embarrassing if I were to vomit. I seem to have pain episodes, it is a general pain everyday, in my back (behind the lungs though not lower back) and in the abdomin and leg cramps. Then I get times when things are much worse, this week has been the worst, I can’t really relate it to menstrual cycles as I take the pill back to back for 3 months and so don’t get a period. This week I have had severve pain everyday – the strange thing is it seems at it’s worst at around 5pm everyday, is that weird or does anyone else have that. It is so painful and I get flashing pains down my legs and with every episode I get angry just before and nausea then I get the pain, I cry during the bad pain and it seems miserable and endless and then about an hour later it mellows it still hurts alot but I am out of crisis. Then I get really tired, I am worried that through reading all of this and focusing on it it will become my whole life. I already have to cancel social occasions and I have to deal with work (I don’t get sick pay, a big worry) The thing that I am most worried about is that this is the 3rd month since I have started the pill and this week has been the worst symptoms since I was in hospital!? Surely that means it is getting worse not stabilizing? Also how long is the recovery time for the surgery, I cannot find it anywhere and obviously it is a worry with not getting sick pay!!?? Thanks for your response in advance

  328. Melissa

    Hi Emma,
    That should be fine as per the bottle. 🙂 You don’t want to overdo it either cos your body may react too much. Here’s to healing!

  329. Emma

    Hi, thanks for your reply! How much dandelion root would you recommend? I have bought some supplements, 520mg. It says 1-2 per day on the bottle. Thanks 🙂

  330. Melissa

    It is my pleasure Deb! It is great to get a confirmation of all those niggling things 🙂 You can beat going for a hyster! Add some superfoods into your diet too – they do wonders 🙂

  331. Melissa

    Hi. Just the bad fats: dairy, meat and over processed oils. Stick with Coconut Oil and Extra Virgin Olive Oil. Fatty Fish and Avo are fabulous for us as they help with reducing inflammation 🙂

  332. needchange

    HI Melissa

    When you say “stay away from fats” are you EXCLUDING good fats? Like fatty fish or avocado? Or are you recommending staying away from all fats?

    Thanks!

  333. Melissa

    Hey Emma! It is my pleasure. The reason you can’t get up in the morning is because your liver is struggling to process the toxins and overload it is struggling from. Don’t feel bad – we all have it 🙂 Get onto some Dandelion supplements and take those three times a day. Also avoid fats in the diet as the liver hates those – coffee and milk are particularly bad. Glad the diet changes worked for you in the past. I love chinese medicine! Let us know how you go 🙂

  334. Emma

    Thank you for posting this list. My endometriosis is flaring up again after a couple of quiet years where I was able to get on with life. I have just found your site and it’s a real source of information and support. Only other endo sufferers can give us true empathy!

    It’s nice to know there are physical reasons why I cannot get up in the morning rather than just feeling/being LAZY! By late morning I do feel a little better but it takes so long to get past the sleepy, muffled, nauseous and painful first couple of hours 🙁 I guess it is because hormones are unsettled in the morning…. ?

    There are so many symptoms on this list that I had never connected to endo, from gritty eyes to shoulder tension. I’ve previously used diet changes to alleviate my endo, and I think I am going to try that avenue again, but also investigate Chinese Medicine at the same time.

    Anyway, thank you again for posting this list, it’s been a reassurance to me.
    Emma

  335. Melissa

    Thanks Ara! I haven’t tried Fibrovan. I am interested by the idea of a blood thinner such as Nattokinasse as I have had much success with Ginger, which is also a natural blood thinner. Thanks for the suggestion. I shall look into it further.

  336. Tabitha

    wow amazing I have EVERY one of those issues..I never thought it could be related to Endo..I have endo and funny because most people get pain during period but I dont get that often mine is REALLY bad during ovulation otherwise an irritating pain that just never goes away. I also have Interstitial cystitis as well and DR is also pretty positive I have Adenomyosis as well they def all go hand in hand..after reading your post i just thought to myself wow this is amazing yet scary due to all the signs that are there but no one ever realizes it I have so many health issues and it seemed to all start right before being diagnosed with endo. thanks for posting that it makes alot of sense 🙂

  337. ara

    Hi Melissa,

    Excellent blog! I never got a lap but I know I have endo. I changed my diet (I don’t eat gluten, eggs and cow’s milk) I got tested and I’m allergic to those 3 foods. The change in diet did help, especially avoiding eggs but still got menstrual and ovulation pain until I found a natural product called Fibrovan (Nattokinasse+) Have you tried it?

  338. Melissa

    Hi,
    No probs and glad you found two methods that you want to implement. Excellent choices! I am not sure about the tail bone being connected but maybe try some yoga to alleviate it. The standing dog position would be brilliant for it. Walking is brilliant – even just 15minutes a day. Just do it every day and you will feel better already!
    Sorry, I don’t have specific liver supportive juices on the site ….yet. Try carrot, beetroot and pineapple initially. Once you get used to juicing, try a really good liver one- cucumber, parsley, beans and an apple. The greener the better.
    Hugs back and thank you

  339. needchange

    Hi Melissa,

    Thank- you so much for your quick reply! I think my P cream is ok, it’s BHRT compounded for me, it’s 6% and I use 1ml twice a day. I use it from day 10-start of my period. I wonder if I juice twice a day (using dandelion root, lemon etc) if that will help? I do have a lot of anxiety and it really prevents me from taking pills, yes even if I know they will help. Melissa, last night after reading your site I decided that nothing is going to happen unless I make it happen!! So 2 strategies I am comfortable with are
    1. juicing
    2. castor oil packs.
    Do you have liver supporting juice recipes on your site?
    Also my tail bone is often very sore. Could that be related to all this as well?

    Thank-you on the congrats for losing the weight it is nice not to be lugging it around.
    Also I want to start exercising, but walking is really all i can do right now…I hope that is good enough!

    Thanks Melissa…you are truely an angel for having this supportive site and helping all of us who have so much to learn.

    HUGS

  340. Melissa

    Hi there. You should be very proud of yourself for having lost so much weight and being able to loose all that weight. That is fantastic and it will certainly help your body heal and get back into balance. What has happened is that due to the excess weight, you have placed extra strain on the liver. The liver flushes out our toxins and also regulates our hormones. By placing excess strain on it, it simply won’t be able to do its job as well. This will affect everything from your skin to your bowels to your endo pain and of course ALL hormones.
    I understand your frustration and anger and perhaps you should allow that to be. I used to literally scream about this stuff every night for a while until I got it out of the system – emotional healing. 🙂 You know there is something wrong and it is good that you trust in yourself enough to know that.
    Make sure the progesterone cream you are using is the right one as some of those can make the situation worse. Check out Endo-resolved.com to find out more about them – until I can write a blog about them in the next few weeks. 🙂

    You don’t have to have a Lap. I haven’t had one in over 8years and have managed to keep endo under control. It all comes down to diet and lifestyle choices you make each and every day. Trust in yourself more and heal the imbalance.
    Dandelion Root is my first recommendation to activate the liver and secondly get onto some Maca. This will help your hormones and your thyroid. Read heaps more on my blog and you will find the answers 🙂

  341. needchange

    Hi Melissa,

    I sit here mystified by all that has happened to me in the last 2 years. Yep it’s been 2 years since I felt like myself! I will try and make this short.
    Physically I have not felt well in a long time, being chronically overweight my whole life I have recently lost 67lbs on a Candida protocol diet.
    I had repeated bladder infections that I took lots of antibiotics for. Diagnosed with IBS at 30, ovarian cysts found at 35 (who knows how long they have been there) painful periods and ovulation complete with intestinal cramping. Been to all the specialists I care to see…and now i am wondering if I have Endo.
    I seem to have all the symptoms you mention and have for some time. My Dr. keeps telling me it’s anxiety…well if she felt as cr@ppy as I do I am sure she would be anxious as well. I do have an ND…who put me on the Candida protocol for 9 months (hence the weight loss) my Cortisol was way high back then as well. I now have a thyroid nodule growing but my thyroid numbers are normal. But all the Drs say nothing is wrong. I am using progesterone cream for PMS etc.
    Melissa….for 2 years I have kept saying “something is wrong” and no one will listen!!! I know deep down something is out of balance…no one should be this tired fatigued and feel this old at 40!
    I don’t want lapro just for them to say “you have endo”! Do I really need the surgery?
    I think I need to take action and just assume that the liver is not doing it’s job like it should and I need to help it. I am scared, frustrated and angry…I know I have emotional scaring like you have…I know I need to address that as well. I plan on reading your site and some how find the energy to help myself.
    Thank you Melissa for this wonderful site..and if there are words of wisdom you have for me…I would be nothing less than grateful….

  342. Melissa

    Dear Julie. I am sorry to hear of your struggles. I would strongly advice you go and see a homeopath or chinese doctor who can guide you on healing, through natural methods. Why not try the guy from this video – http://endoempowered.com/some-motivation-for-us-to-keep-searching/
    Perhaps the “not being able to perform the hyster” is a blessing in disguise. My heart goes out to you 🙂 Big hugs!

  343. Julie Harrison

    Yes like most of the others i tick all the boxes. Had tubes removed previously and Laparoscopy/Hysteroscopy to remove extensive endo. Pinching pain and ache in hip and right groin, lower back pain, digestive problems, cold, big time bowel problems, IBS and even Diverculitis, Hernia and Prolapse making my life absolute misery. They changed their minds re Hysterectomy as they fear adhesions will get worse as they original stuck ovary to bowel both sides. Bloating bad and now going through menopause real helta skelta of symptoms yet despite all this nothing being done just pain killers and Fybogel, Colpermin and Sleep Tabs, pinches when i sit in low chairs also.
    Frustrated, anxious, in pain and often I believe some think im exzadgerating the medical profession clearly don’t know what to do next!

  344. Sameera

    Hi Melissa,

    Bad big clots during periods could also be of the endo reasons. And yes, I feel cold easily too. Also, one other thing I want to mention is dysuria – painful urination. For a long time after getting married, I suffered chronic dyuria which just got diagnosed as a UTI and no antibiotics would heal me. That ofcourse happened cos the underlying reason for the UTI was probably the endo.
    Thanks for coming up with this nice comprehensive list.

  345. Melissa

    Hi Rosie. Yeah I think flemy throat just describes it so well 🙂 It can also a sign of Candida which is more than just allergies.
    The cold thing is something I found out through studying Chinese Medicine. They describe our condition as having “caught the cold in our abdominal area”. It is a different way of looking at things but many of us share this symptom. I found having “warming food” such as ginger, pumpkin and a heap of others good for it. Next time you get really chilly, try making one of my ginger drinks. They contain a heap of warming ingredients and you will warm up from the inside out.

  346. Ro

    The flemy throat thing is probably called post-nasal drip, and can be part of an overall allergy picture, along with hayfever etc.
    Since allergies and endo go together, it would make sense for flemy throat to do so as well.

    I’m interested to read about being cold, since I am permanently freezing (expensive heating bills!) but I have been since forever, since I was very young and well before endo.

  347. Melissa

    It’s a pleasure Liz! I know some seem so obscure but wow!…. all connected to the same thing!

  348. Liz

    Wow…I have all of those too and have been suffering with this for 12 plus years. I’m so glad I found your site!

  349. Melissa

    Hi Jessice. Well I am so glad you found my site as it will hopefully help you with more information 🙂
    Don’t worry we all understand and are here for you!

  350. Jessica

    I did not know that about hysterectomies. It’s so scary. I’m going in for an ultra sound tomorrow, It’s all just a big run around. I didn’t know about anything natural until I read your page last night. I am willing to try whatever it takes to help this. I’m missing work and getting into trouble for it. Thank you for all this info and support. It’s hard when everyone around me doesn’t understand.

  351. Melissa

    Hi Jessica. It is likely that it has come back. It grows back fairly quickly. I am sorry the doctors didn’t tell you the likelihood is pretty high that it does. You don’t only have a hysterectomy as an option – there are heaps better out there and those don’t fix anything anyways!
    Read this one: http://endoempowered.com/just-take-it-all-out-i-need-relief-what-you-need-to-know-about-having-a-hysterectomy/
    Go natural and keep searching for holistic methods and you can get there too 🙂

  352. Jessica

    I had Endo last year and has a Laparoscopy done last May. I have been having the same symptoms in the last 6mo as I did last year. Went today and they think I may have Endo again. I didn’t realize you could have it more than once, has anyone else had this more than once? I don’t want to go through it all again. I have ALL of the symptoms and I’m just tired of it. I’m 24, so a hysterectomy isn’t an option yet. Am I horrible for complaining about it coming back? Just tired of it! I work in a factory and that doesn’t help any….

  353. Melissa

    Hi Riss! It is my pleasure, my pleasure! I keep coming up with more too. One I realised today is the “flemy throat thing” not sure what that is called by I reckon we probably all have that one too.
    Glad to hear you have gone wheat and dairy free! That is so hard. Try sugar free and you will be amazed! 🙂
    No probs.

  354. Riss

    HI Mel,
    Thankyou thankyou for publishing this list. Having suffered with endo for over 10 years I have read many symptom lists over the years but wish that I had read this one first! I would agree that period pain is number 1 and wish that digestive issues/bowel issues was number 2 on every other list I had read. The one that really amazed me was the cold. That is me!! I have never seen this as a symptom- another one I wish I had read years ago.
    I am loving your blog posts. I have been following a wheat/dairy free diet for 5 months and just cannot believe the changes.
    Thanks for all your work.

  355. Melissa

    Hi Aniux. It could be some as obvious as Gluten Intolerance or something digestive too. They seem to have similar symptoms to Endo. Hope you find out soon and it is nothing too serious 🙂

  356. Aniux

    Thanks. I rarely have any cramping mostly bloating and low energy. No pain at all. I really hope we get sone answers this week. Thanks again

  357. Melissa

    Hi Aniux. One of the biggest symptoms of endo is probably period pain which you haven’t mentioned. It could be something within the “woman’s bits” but I can’t say for sure if it is Endo or not based on what you’ve said. I hope the doc is able to give you some answers with a proper examination. Hope it goes well for you!

  358. Aniux

    Hi Melissa,
    I have the following symptoms: cold all the time, lower back pain 3 days before my period, digestive issues and skin breakouts after I ovulate. However I do have Hashimoto’s thyroiditis which causes tha same symptoms above. I am going in for a lap to explore/ remove endo, since we cannot get pregnant an everything else checks out ok. Do you belIeve I could have endo? I think I might but I am not sure I would like your experience opinion.
    Thanks

  359. Melissa

    Hi Raiza,
    Sorry to hear of your struggles with all the symptoms. Just work through the list and target each one independantly. Your first point of focus should be your diet. Cut out dairy, meat and gluten and you will notice a massive improvement! It takes commitment but when you have struggled for so long, the commitment to get better should hopefully be a little easier 🙂

  360. Melissa

    Hi SJT,
    I found it beneficial to put it all down to one thing, rather than thinking we have contracted yet another condition to deal with. This way, it is somehow more manageable. Eventhough I am sure at this stage of the game you would rather cut some out! 🙂
    I tackle each symptom seperately though and that way I can start to tick them off the list, one by one. The biggest one to heal is digestion…. which means changing your diet. It makes for an instant improvement.

  361. Raiza

    Hi Melissa, I just had the laparocospy done no long ago and I have had two periods already and they are the same symptoms or even worst than they used to be. I think I have like 15+ of the symptoms that you mention on the list I even haven’t been able to have a baby and so a this point of my life I don’t know what outs to do I’m so tired of this, have you found a solution to this problem?,,,let me know cus I don’t know whats next for me,,,Im 32 years old and have had this since 14 years old…..
    thx
    Raiza

  362. SJT

    Hi there. I too have practically all of these symptoms- which im not sure whether i should be relieved or frightened by. At least it’s just one thing causing all these issues, not just a million different issues? Hypochondriac speaking here, but i am not exaggerating my symptoms. I am currently experiencing some now, and it is debilitating! The pain basically runs my life for about a week, not to mention all the other things that go along with it. Though of course im sure stress is a contributing factor… anyways, this post helped a lot! Narrows my window down a bit so i can go to sleep at night knowing im not crazy/sick with everything. Thanks!

  363. Melissa

    Hi Melissa, there are probably heaps more that I haven’t thought of yet but hey we shall keep adding them onto the list. At least you can blame it all on endo this way! 🙂

  364. Melissa

    I have every one of those symptoms and never knew all of them were endo related! Especially the puffy eyes, upper back pain, and the skin conditions! Im just starting to learn about my condition, thank you!

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