Endometriosis Awareness Month: Why We Need to Talk About It

Endometriosis affects 1 in 10 women, yet it takes an average of 8+ years to receive a diagnosis. Despite its prevalence, it remains one of the most misunderstood and under-researched conditions in women’s health.

If you’ve been told that painful periods are normal, that your symptoms are just IBS or stress, or that surgery or birth control are your only options, know this: Endometriosis is not just about painful periods. It’s a whole-body condition that affects hormones, inflammation, digestion, immune function, and even mental health.

So, let’s dive into what endometriosis really is, what’s driving it, and how you can take control of your health.

What is Endometriosis?

Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining (endometrium) grows outside the uterus. It can attach to the ovaries, fallopian tubes, bowel, bladder, and in some cases, even distant organs. Unlike the uterine lining, this tissue doesn’t shed—leading to chronic pain, inflammation, adhesions, and scar tissue.

• It’s not just a reproductive issue—it’s a whole-body inflammatory condition.
• It’s not just about pain—some women have severe pain, while others struggle more with digestive issues, infertility, or fatigue.
• It presents differently for everyone—some experience symptoms from their first period, while others are diagnosed only after struggling to conceive or entering perimenopause.

How is Endometriosis Diagnosed?

Unlike PCOS, where criteria like bloodwork and symptoms can help with diagnosis, endometriosis requires laparoscopic surgery to be officially diagnosed.

This is because imaging tests like ultrasounds or MRIs often miss endometriosis, especially when the tissue is microscopic or located in “hidden” areas like the bowels or bladder.

However, if you experience cyclical pain, digestive issues, or pain with sex, it could be clues to talk to your doc about endo.

Because it impacts multiple organs, endo symptoms are often misdiagnosed as IBS, interstitial cystitis, or “just bad periods.” Advocate for yourself if you know something is off.

What Are the Symptoms of Endometriosis?

While some women experience excruciating period pain, others may feel fine during their period but experience pain during ovulation or digestion issues that seem “random.”

Here’s a look at the most common symptoms:

• severe abdominal or pelvic pain
• back pain
• pain on intercourse
• pain with bowel movements or urination
• pelvic burning
• referred pain, especially shoulder blades or top of collar bone
• PMS
• painful periods
• heavy periods
• clots with period 
• IBS like symptoms
• bloating (often called Endo Belly)

Theories on What Causes Endometriosis

While no single cause has been identified, several key theories explain why endometriosis occurs:

Retrograde Menstruation Theory – Some menstrual blood flows backward into the pelvic cavity, instead of exiting through the vagina. But since many women experience retrograde menstruation without developing endo, this alone does not explain the condition.

 Immune Dysfunction – A weakened or dysregulated immune system may fail to remove misplaced endometrial-like tissue, allowing it to grow and cause inflammation.

Hormonal Imbalances (oestrogen dominance) – oestrogen fuels the growth of endometrial lesions, while low progesterone levels create an imbalance that worsens inflammation and pain.

Genetic & Epigenetic Factors – Some women may have a genetic predisposition, but environmental and lifestyle factors (like stress, diet, and toxin exposure) may trigger the expression of these genes.

Inflammation & Gut Dysbiosis – Chronic inflammation triggers the immune system, making pain and endo progression worse. Gut imbalances (like leaky gut, SIBO, or high histamine levels) can exacerbate endo symptoms and disrupt oestrogen detoxification.

The Role of Oestrogen & the DUTCH Test

Since oestrogen fuels endometriosis, testing oestrogen metabolism is critical. The DUTCH test (Dried Urine Test for Comprehensive Hormones) gives a detailed look at how your body processes oestrogen—showing whether it’s being detoxified efficiently or recirculating and feeding endometrial lesions.

 Signs of Oestrogen Dominance in Endometriosis:

• Heavy, painful periods with clots
• Breast tenderness & water retention
• Mood swings, PMS, or low progesterone levels
• Bloating & weight gain around the hips/thighs

💡 I’ll be covering the DUTCH test in detail in an upcoming edition of Wellness Wisdom Newsletter—stay tuned!

Key Functional Approaches to Managing Endometriosis

If you’ve been told your only options are surgery or hormonal birth control, know that there are other ways to support your body naturally.

• Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine– Regulates inflammation, reduces pain, and improves blood circulation.
• Nutrition for Endo Relief– Anti-inflammatory diet, gut-healing foods, and fibre to support oestrogen detox.
• Balancing Blood Sugar & Cortisol– Stable blood sugar reduces inflammation & hormonal swings.
• Pelvic Floor & Fascia Therapy– Helps release chronic tension & pain.
• Supplements & Herbal Support– NAC, magnesium, omega-3s, curcumin, and Vitex all support hormonal balance & pain relief.

Want to learn more? Join a Free Period Pain Masterclass – March 31^st

As it’s Endometriosis Awareness Month I’ve decided to share a pre-recorded period pain masterclass coming to you on March 31st (apologies for the date change)—a recorded masterclass, completely free, to dive deeper into these strategies because you deserve more than “just take the pill” as an answer. I’m not gatekeeping anything.

📍 Sign up here

Endometriosis can feel overwhelming, but there are real, actionable steps you can take to support your body.

Final Thoughts

Endometriosis is complex, but you are not alone. Whether you choose surgery, natural approaches, or a mix of both, you deserve real solutions that support your whole body.

💛 What’s been the most helpful tool for your endo journey? Drop a comment below—I’d love to hear your experience!

Disclaimer:

This article is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider before making changes to your treatment plan.