- Severe menstrual cramps that start before your period and last several days
- Chronic pelvic pain that doesn’t go away between cycles
- Pain during or after sexual intercourse
- Discomfort with bowel movements or urination, especially during menstruation
- Heavy or irregular bleeding between periods
- Fatigue and bloating that feel tied to your cycle
- Difficulty getting pregnant after trying for six months or more
But that’s not all. Some women also notice lower back pain, nausea, or digestive issues that seem to flare right before or during their period. If these sound familiar, you’re far from alone—studies suggest the average time from first symptoms to proper discussion with a doctor can stretch seven to ten years.
Why Endometriosis Happens: What Research Tells Us
Scientists still don’t know exactly what causes endometriosis, but several theories have strong support from ongoing studies. One common explanation involves retrograde menstruation, where menstrual blood flows backward through the fallopian tubes and implants outside the uterus. Genetics also appear to play a role—if your mother or sister has it, your risk may be higher.