Myth or Reality: Endometriosis - Is it normal to have pain during your period?
By Dr. Carlos de Granda, specialist in obstetrics and gynecology at the Women's Unit of the Ruber International Hospital
Endometriosis is a disease that for years has been surrounded by myths, the normalization of pain, and a profound lack of public understanding. One of the most widespread misconceptions is that "endometriosis is just menstrual pain." However, scientific reality shows us that it is a chronic, systemic, and complex disease that can accompany a woman throughout her life and affect multiple aspects of her health.
A disease that goes far beyond the uterus
Since the 90s, gynecologists have significantly increased research on endometriosis, reflected in the enormous growth of scientific publications.
Today we know that:
- It is a chronic disease, which does not disappear on its own.
- Es systemicIt not only affects the uterus and ovaries, but can also have repercussions on different organs and systems of the body.
- It is a disease hormone dependent and with a clear inflammatory base.
Reducing it to a simple “menstrual pain” is minimizing a complex pathology that can profoundly alter the quality of life.
Symptoms: Pain is not always “normal”
The main symptoms of endometriosis are pain , which can manifest in various ways:
- Intense pain with menstruation (dysmenorrhea).
- Pain outside of menstruation.
- Pain during sexual intercourse (dyspareunia).
- Chronic pelvic pain.
- Digestive or urinary symptoms related to the lesions.
Furthermore, endometriosis has a significant impact on fertility . Many women discover the disease when they experience difficulties conceiving.
The big problem: the diagnostic delay
Despite the scientific evidence, we know that endometriosis continues to be diagnosed late.
Studies show that:
- There is a diagnostic delay of 6 to 10 years.
- The average patient consults, to three gynecologists before obtaining a correct diagnosis.
This delay has consequences: the longer it goes on, the more advanced the disease may be , and the more difficult it will be to control the symptoms and preserve fertility.
Debunking the myth: pain is not normal
One of the fundamental objectives of the Women's Unit is to raise awareness about the importance of seeking medical advice for persistent symptoms , especially when pain interferes with daily life.
We must not fall into the myth that "it is normal for women to have pain" or that "periods hurt and nothing happens."
Disabling menstrual pain it is not normal and should be evaluated by a specialist.
The importance of early diagnosis
Early diagnosis allows:
- Start treatment before the disease progresses.
- Better control of pain.
- Reduce the inflammatory impact.
- Protect fertility.
- To significantly improve the quality of life.
If you have any suspicions, it is best to consult a doctor as soon as the symptoms begin.
Endometriosis is not “just menstrual pain.” It is a chronic, systemic, hormonal, and inflammatory disease that deserves to be diagnosed and treated rigorously.
From the Women's Unit, our commitment is to continue working to detect the disease as early as possible and offer each woman the care she needs.
If you found this article interesting and would like to be seen by a specialist in Gynecology and Obstetrics, the Women's Unit at Ruber International Hospital has a specialized department in this area. You can request more information by calling 91 387 51 72/73/74 or schedule an in-person appointment with top specialists.