Endometriosis is a condition where cells similar to the ones in the lining of the womb (uterus) are found elsewhere in the body. Each month these cells react in the same way to those in the womb, building up and then breaking down and bleeding. Unlike the cells in the womb that leave the body as a period, this blood has no way to escape. 

It is a chronic and often debilitating condition that can cause painful or heavy periods. It may also lead to infertility, dyspareunia (painful sex), fatigue and bowel and bladder problems. Around 1.5 million women in the UK are currently living with the condition.1 Endometriosis can affect all women and girls of a childbearing age, regardless of race or ethnicity. 

It is not uncommon for symptoms of endometriosis to be ignored, and many women have to wait years before a diagnosis is made. Fortunately, this is beginning to change. A great resource for information and support is the charity Endometriosis UK.

Over 56% of women who have endometriosis will experience dyspareunia (painful sex).2 Experiencing dyspareunia will cause anxiety which can result in pelvic floor tension and a lack of natural lubrication which means that the dyspareunia can persist even if the primary endometriosis has been treated.

Do discuss these symptoms with your doctor. If you feel you are not being listened to, request a referral to a consultant, a pelvic health physiotherapist or psychosexual therapist who will have experience in this area of intimate health.

References

1. Rogers PA, D'Hooghe TM, Fazleabas A, et al. Priorities for endometriosis research: recommendations from an international consensus workshop. Reprod Sci 2009;16(4):335-46.
2. Jimenez JCV, Romero LL, Garcia IB, Sanchez ML, Fernandez RO. Endometriosis and dyspareunia: Solving the enigma. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol X. 2023;19:100224.