Menstrual symptoms and endometriosis are common health issues affecting women. Menstrual symptoms occur in every female’s reproductive stage, while endometriosis is a more severe and rare condition that affects the tissue lining the uterus.

Sometimes, it can be challenging to distinguish between menstrual symptoms and endometriosis because they share similar symptoms. However, it is essential to identify early the symptoms you may experience, and this article will help you differentiate between menstrual symptoms and endometriosis.

What are menstrual symptoms?

Menstrual symptoms are common among women during their menstrual cycle. The menstrual cycle occurs every 28 days and starts with the shedding of the endometrial lining in the uterus. It is characterized by various symptoms such as.

Cramps
Bloating
Back pain
Headaches
Fatigue
Mood swings
Breast tenderness
Blood clots
Change in bowel movement

These symptoms are normal for most women during their menstrual cycle and usually not a cause for concern.

What is endometriosis?

Endometriosis is a disorder that occurs when the tissues lining the uterus grow outside the uterus. It is a painful condition that affects women during their reproductive life stage.

According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, it affects about ten percent of women. Endometriosis growth outside the uterus continues to respond to hormonal changes just as it does inside the uterus, which causes severe pain, inflammation, scar tissue formation, and occasionally, fertility problems. Symptoms of endometriosis include:.

Severe menstrual cramps
Abdominal and back pain
Irregular or heavy periods
Painful bowel movements or peeing
Fatigue
Difficulty getting pregnant

How to tell the difference between menstrual symptoms and endometriosis

Distinguishing between menstrual symptoms and endometriosis is essential, primarily when endometriosis is in its early stages.

To accurately determine if you have menstrual symptoms or endometriosis, you need to understand the differences in symptoms and when they occur. Here are some ways to tell if you have menstrual symptoms or endometriosis:.

Menstrual symptoms

During your menstrual cycle, it is typical to experience various symptoms such as cramps, back pain, and mood swings. The pain can vary in range from mild to moderate and usually lasts for one to two days.

If you start to experience mild to moderate pain or discomfort during your period, then it is likely menstrual symptoms. It is also normal to feel tired and bloated at the beginning of the cycle. Blood clots and a change in bowel movement are also common during this period.

If these symptoms persist for more than a week, then it is important to speak with a healthcare provider.

Endometriosis

Endometriosis pain begins a few days before your period and lasts for several days after the period has ended. The pain is deeper and occurs throughout your abdomen, unlike menstrual cramps that occur in the uterus area.

Painful bowel movements or peeing may also be more severe during this time if you have endometriosis. The pain may also increase during sexual intercourse, or you may experience pain in your lower back or pelvis area.

If you experience severe pain, heavy menstrual bleeding, and have difficulty getting pregnant, then there is a high probability that you have endometriosis. Consultation with your healthcare provider is necessary for an accurate diagnosis.

Conclusion

While menstrual symptoms and endometriosis share some symptoms, it is crucial to determine the difference early.

Menstrual symptoms are normal during your menstrual cycle, while endometriosis is a severe disorder that can affect your reproductive system. Knowing the difference and when to seek medical attention can help prevent future complications. Trust your body and speak with your healthcare provider if you have any concerns about symptoms you are experiencing.