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5 Common Myths About Endometriosis, Debunked
Endometriosis is a complex condition that affects 190 million women (and girls) globally, yet misconceptions about it persist. To mark Endometriosis Awareness Month, our board-certified OB/GYNs and midwives at Westover Hills Women's Health are on a mission to debunk the most common myths.
Here’s what you need to know.
Myth: Endometriosis is just a painful period
Fact: While severe menstrual pain is a common symptom, endometriosis is much more than that. It occurs when tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside of your uterus, which causes chronic inflammation, scarring, and even infertility.
To compound matters, the pain can extend beyond your periods, which can negatively affect your daily life, digestion, and even bladder function. Depending on where the lesions grow, you may also experience pain during intercourse as well as pain while using the bathroom.
Myth: Only middle-aged women have endometriosis
Fact: Teens can also develop endometriosis. In fact, a 2020 study revealed that out of 1,000 teens with pelvic pain, 64% had endometriosis.
Teens are more likely to develop endometriosis if they have a family history of endometriosis, started their periods before age 11, have short periods (less than 27 days), or have heavy periods.
Myth: Pregnancy cures endometriosis
Fact: Some women experience temporary symptom relief during pregnancy due to hormonal changes, but endometriosis doesn’t just go away. Symptoms often return after childbirth.
Myth: If you have endometriosis, you can’t get pregnant
Fact: While endometriosis can affect fertility, not all women with the condition struggle to conceive. Many go on to have healthy pregnancies, sometimes with the help of medical treatments like hormone therapy or surgery.
Myth: You can’t have endometriosis if you have light periods
Fact: Endometriosis symptoms vary widely, and the severity of bleeding doesn’t determine whether you have the condition.
Some women with endometriosis have heavy periods, while others experience light or irregular cycles but still deal with significant pain and other complications.
Myth: Hysterectomy is the only cure
Fact: While a hysterectomy may be an option for some women with severe symptoms, it isn’t a guaranteed cure. Endometriosis can persist even after uterus removal if lesions remain elsewhere in your body.
Many women find relief through less invasive treatments like laparoscopic surgery, hormone therapy, and lifestyle adjustments.
Know the facts and take control
Understanding the truth about endometriosis is the first step toward better management and treatment. If you suspect you have endometriosis or are struggling with symptoms, contact us at Westover Hills Women’s Health.
We first confirm that endometriosis is the source of your symptoms, because other conditions, including fibroids, can also cause painful or heavy periods.
We diagnose endometriosis through a physical exam, review of your symptoms, and diagnostic imaging, which may include an ultrasound. In some cases, you may need a laparoscopy to check for signs of endometriosis in your abdomen.
Depending on the severity of your endometriosis and whether you’re actively trying to conceive, we may recommend:
- Pain medication
- Hormonal therapies, including extended cycle birth control
- Surgery to remove lesions
When possible, we utilize minimally invasive, laparoscopic robotic techniques. If endometriosis is contributing to fertility issues, we can recommend the right treatments with your family planning goals in mind.
Take action this March
In observance of Endometriosis Awareness Month, take action. If you’re struggling with the symptoms of endometriosis, call one of our San Antonio, Texas, locations or request your appointment online.
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