Endometriosis is a condition that can cause significant pain, heavy periods, and even infertility, yet many women don’t realize how common it truly is. At Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists, we believe that understanding your risk is a crucial step toward receiving the care and relief you deserve. So, just how common is endometriosis? Let’s take a closer look.
How Many Women Have Endometriosis?
It’s estimated that about 1 in 10 women of reproductive age, roughly 10%, are affected by endometriosis. That means millions of women in the U.S. alone live with this chronic condition.
However, the true number may be even higher because:
- Many women are misdiagnosed or go undiagnosed for years.
- Symptoms can be mistaken for other conditions, like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or pelvic inflammatory disease (PID).
- Some women have few or no symptoms, making diagnosis less likely.
Who is at Risk for Endometriosis?
While any woman can develop endometriosis, certain factors may increase your risk:
- Family history – Having a mother, sister, or other close relative with endometriosis increases your chances of developing it yourself.
- Age – Endometriosis is most common in women in their 20s, 30s, and 40s, but it can begin as early as the teenage years.
- Starting your period at a young age
- Short menstrual cycles (less than 27 days)
- Heavy periods that last more than 7 days
- Never having given birth – Women who haven’t had children appear to be at higher risk, although endometriosis also affects many women who have had children.
- Health conditions – Certain conditions, such as autoimmune diseases, may be more common in women with endometriosis, though researchers are still studying these connections.
Common Symptoms of Endometriosis
Understanding your risk means knowing what to watch for. Common symptoms include:
- Painful periods (cramps that don’t improve with medication)
- Pain during sex
- Chronic pelvic pain
- Heavy menstrual bleeding
- Painful bowel movements or urination, especially during your period
- Difficulty getting pregnant
Remember: Painful periods are not “just part of being a woman.” If your pain interferes with daily life, it’s time to talk to a specialist.
How is Endometriosis Diagnosed?
Diagnosis often starts with a thorough discussion of your symptoms, followed by a pelvic exam and sometimes imaging tests. The only way to confirm endometriosis definitively is through laparoscopy, a minimally invasive surgical procedure that allows your doctor to see and sometimes remove endometrial tissue.
Don’t Ignore Your Symptoms
Many women live for years without a diagnosis, believing their pain is normal. But endometriosis is a real medical condition, and help is available. At Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists, our team of OB/GYNs has extensive experience diagnosing and treating endometriosis. We’re here to listen to your concerns and help you find relief so you can live life to the fullest.
If you’re experiencing symptoms or want to better understand your risk for endometriosis, call us today at 770.720.7733 or schedule an appointment online. Early diagnosis and treatment can make a world of difference.
