5 Lesser Known Signs of Endometriosis

More than 6.5 million American women have endometriosis: a chronic gynecologic condition that occurs when tissue that’s similar to your uterine lining grows outside your uterus. This tissue thickens and sheds each month during your menstrual cycle, causing inflammation and a range of other issues, too.

Pelvic pain is the most well-known symptom of endometriosis, but it’s not the only one — and some people don’t experience endometriosis pain at all. Learning to recognize some of the other, lesser-known signs is the first step to getting the right treatment, and our team at South Valley Women's Health Care is here to help.

Here are five symptoms beyond pelvic pain that could indicate endometriosis.

1. Difficulty getting pregnant

Infertility is a common but easily overlooked sign of endometriosis. Because endometriosis can cause inflammation, scarring, and blockages in your reproductive system, it often makes conception difficult.

In fact, endometriosis is one of the most common causes of female infertility, yet many people only discover they have endometriosis when they struggle to get pregnant and start fertility evaluations.

2. Chronic fatigue

Endometriosis-related inflammation and hormonal imbalances can lead to ongoing fatigue. This isn't just about feeling tired after a long day — it’s an overwhelming exhaustion that doesn’t go away with rest. Chronic low energy may be so severe that it even begins to affect your work, relationships, and daily activities.

3. Painful bowel movements or urination

Most people assume that digestive discomfort or urinary pain is unrelated to their reproductive health. However, endometriosis can cause tissue growth on or around your bladder and intestines, leading to pain when using the bathroom.

Some people also experience other gastrointestinal symptoms, including diarrhea, constipation, bloating, or a frequent urge to urinate, especially during their menstrual cycle.

4. Pain during or after sex

Painful intercourse is another lesser-known sign of endometriosis, and it happens because endometrial-like tissue can grow in areas that cause deep pelvic pain during penetration. It’s possible to experience lingering pain for hours or even days after sex.

5. Leg, back, or hip pain

Endometriosis adhesions can affect nerves in your pelvis, and depending on which nerves are impacted, you might experience pain that radiates to your lower back, hips, or legs that may worsen during your periods. This particular symptom mimics back conditions like sciatica, making it easy to overlook endometriosis as the cause.

Start finding answers and get the relief you need

Do any of these signs sound familiar? Schedule a well-woman exam to talk with our team and take the first step to finding relief from your symptoms. 

Endometriosis is a complex condition, but with the right diagnosis and treatment plan, you can manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. Call our office in Bluffdale, Utah, to get started today.