What Causes Endometriosis Pain? The Top 3 Reasons For Pain
According to Women's Health, endometriosis affects 11% of American women ranging from the ages of 15 and 44.
Pain is the most common symptom of endometriosis. It is commonly associated with other symptoms and can be an indicator that something is wrong.
And, if you're reading this article, there's a good chance you're like me and also have endometriosis.
If you're like me, there are times that you experience pain (there were times for me that it was horrible pain). So, logically, you want to know WHY you're experiencing pain.
We’re going to discuss some of the top reasons for this pain and why you may be experiencing pain or discomfort.
What does endometriosis pain feel like?
Every woman’s pain tolerance is different, and it’s important for you to know and understand your body and comfort levels.
Some women may not experience any pain at all, while others’ may experience severe, unbearable cramping.
Some women say their endometriosis pain feels like they are being stabbed in the ovaries. Some women have stated that it feels like a twinge-like pain.
Where is endometriosis pain felt?
When we first think of endometriosis pain, we immediately think of abdominal pain, resulting in painful menstrual cycles.
But, pain from endometriosis can affect other areas of a woman’s body.
We will highlight three, but please check our list of other areas you may feel endometriosis pain, known as Diaphragmatic endometriosis.
- Chest pain
- Neck pain
- Shoulder pain
Leg Pain
You may feel pain in your leg if you have endometriosis. You may notice leg cramps or throbbing pains.
Walking may become extremely painful due to the adhesions caused by the endometriosis pushing on the sciatic nerve.
Back Pain
Back pain is a normal occurrence; however, back pain related to endometriosis will be felt deep within your body. This pain will not be able to be relieved by seeing a chiropractor or changing one’s posture.
One’s Leg pain (sciatic nerve) and back pain may be closely tied together.
Digestive Tract
Bowel pain is known as rectovaginal endometriosis. This is one of my most severe and painful forms of endometriosis.
You may experience the following symptoms:
- Bleeding from the rectum
- Painful bowel movements
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Gas
Research believes one’s immune system has a role in rectovaginal endometriosis as well as genetics.
Reason 1: Sex
Sex for women who have endometriosis can be excruciating.
Finding a few comfortable sex positions is important for both partners.
The reason sex may be painful is due to vaginal dryness. You can always use a personal moisturizer for daily use and during intimacy. Ensure your lube is pure and free from chemicals.
Sex is also painful due to the growths on one’s ovaries, fallopian tubes, and bowels. Penetration during sexual intercourse may stretch those tissues causing discomfort and pain for the woman.
The pain varies from woman to woman and may also be related to the sexual position. Make sure you're honest with your partner when you experience any pain or discomfort.
Reason 2: Inflammation
Inflammation is common with endometriosis, as a matter of fact, it’s known as an inflammatory disease.
The inflammation is from the irritation and scarring of the uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, rectum, and bladder.
One may experience more pelvic pain and bloat due to inflammation. By trying the endometriosis diet, one may be able to help eliminate some of the bloating they are experiencing.
Reason 3: Endometrial Cells
Endometrial cells cause the production of abnormal cells that form a tumor. This tumor may grow and invade other tissues.
These abnormal cells tend to grow at a much more rapid pace and do not die at a set rate, whereas healthy cells do. Because of this, the cells accumulate more rapidly, overtaking the tissue causing pain.