Heavy, Painful Periods: Could It Be Endometriosis? 

Every woman has a heavy period every once in a while, but if it regularly happens alongside intense pelvic cramping or extreme fatigue, it could be something other than your normal menstrual cycle. One possible culprit is endometriosis.

At Beverly Hills Medical Institute, women’s health doctor Shaghayegh “Sherri” Tavassoli, DO, regularly diagnoses and treats endometriosis. 

In recognition of Endometriosis Awareness Month, we explain what endometriosis is, highlight common symptoms, and explain why early diagnosis is so important.

What is endometriosis?

Endometriosis is a chronic and painful condition that causes uterine-like (endometrial) tissue to grow outside of your uterus and on surrounding organs, such as your ovaries, fallopian tubes, and pelvic lining. 

The tissue in these areas thickens and bleeds during your period, just like the tissue in your uterus, resulting in inflammation, pain, and in some cases, infertility.

Many women with endometriosis don’t realize anything is wrong. They assume they just have heavy periods. But ongoing heavy bleeding or extreme pelvic pain should always be evaluated by a healthcare professional. 

Signs that may indicate endometriosis

Because endometriosis presents similar symptoms to other conditions, like uterine fibroids and hormonal imbalances, it can be challenging to tell if you’re at risk. Even so, there are signs to watch out for, including:

• Heavy, prolonged menstrual bleeding
• Severe cramps that interfere with your daily life
• Pelvic pain during bowel movements, urinating, or sex
• Extreme fatigue
• Digestive issues, like bloating

To be clear, not everyone with endometriosis experiences all of these issues. Symptoms vary from person to person, but it’s still important to get screened, as endometriosis can progress without treatment.

Why an early endometriosis diagnosis is important

Women with endometriosis often attribute their symptoms to a family history of heavy periods or simply a natural part of having a uterus. But endometriosis is an inflammatory disease that can significantly affect your quality of life and increase the risk of fertility issues if left untreated.

The sooner Dr. Tavassoli identifies the cause of your symptoms, the sooner she can recommend personalized therapies to reduce pain and help prevent the disease from progressing. 

Endometriosis treatment: What to expect

Treatment for endometriosis depends on several factors, including your medical history, symptoms, and symptom severity. Dr. Tavassoli may suggest:

• Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication to reduce pain
• Hormonal birth control to prevent or reduce heavy menstrual bleeding 
• Progestin therapy to stop monthly periods altogether
• Prescription medications to lower estrogen levels and stop menstruation
• Laparoscopic surgery to remove scar tissue and endometrial implants
• Excision surgery, which removes endometrial lesions, nodules, and scar tissue
• In rare cases, hysterectomy, if your symptoms are severe

Lifestyle changes can also help you manage symptoms alongside treatment. Working out regularly, practicing stress reduction techniques, and doing pelvic floor exercises can all help you manage symptoms more effectively. 

Request an endometriosis screening today

If you’re concerned you might have endometriosis, don’t wait to schedule a screening. Contact us today to get started. Call our office in Beverly Hills, California, serving the greater Los Angeles area, or book your appointment online. We also offer telehealth appointments.