Which symptoms are commonly associated with endometriosis?

Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the lining inside the uterus, called the endometrium, starts to grow outside the uterus. This can lead to a variety of symptoms that significantly impact a person's quality of life. The classic symptoms associated with endometriosis include dysmenorrhea (painful periods), pelvic pain (which may occur during menstruation or at other times), and infertility due to scarring or adhesions affecting reproductive structures.

Dysmenorrhea often presents as severe cramps during menstruation, and pelvic pain can be chronic or cyclical, correlating with the menstrual cycle. Infertility is also a common complication because endometriosis can disrupt the normal function of the ovaries and fallopian tubes, making it harder to conceive.

Other symptoms can include pain during intercourse, bowel issues, and bladder problems, but the three noted—dysmenorrhea, pelvic pain, and infertility—are the most prominent. The presence of these symptoms can lead to a diagnosis of endometriosis upon further investigation, such as imaging or surgical exploration if necessary.