Common Early Signs of Endometriosis You Should Not Ignore
In my daily practice, I often meet women in their 20s who come in with stories of painful periods that have been troubling them for years. Many of them tell me that the pain started off as mild cramps but has gradually worsened over time. Some even describe rushing to the emergency room every month because painkillers no longer help. What makes it even more frustrating is that their ultrasounds come back “normal.” So, what’s going on?
This is a pattern I see often — and in many cases, the answer is endometriosis.
Endometriosis affects millions of women worldwide, including a growing number here in Dubai and across the UAE. Despite how common it is, the condition frequently remains undiagnosed for years. Why? Because its symptoms are often brushed off as “normal period pain” or mistaken for bowel or urinary issues, leading to delays in diagnosis. That’s why recognizing the early signs is so important — timely evaluation can prevent years of suffering and protect long-term health.
What Is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis happens when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus (endometrium) grows outside the uterus — often on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, pelvic lining, bladder, or bowel. These abnormal growths respond to monthly hormonal changes, leading to inflammation, scarring, and sometimes severe, sharp pain.
Early Signs You Should Watch For
1. Painful Periods That Disrupt Daily Life
Mild cramps can be normal — but when your period pain is so severe that you need frequent painkillers, miss work or school, or end up in the ER, it’s not “just bad periods.” Many women with endometriosis describe pain starting a few days before menstruation and lasting longer than usual.
2. Pelvic Pain Beyond Menstruation
For many women, the pain doesn’t stop when the period ends. Pelvic pain that persists throughout the month, including around ovulation, is a common but overlooked sign. This can easily be mistaken for digestive or urinary issues.
3. Pain During or After Intercourse
Painful intimacy (dyspareunia) is another red flag. Endometriotic lesions, especially those near the back of the uterus (uterosacral ligaments or the pouch of Douglas), can cause deep pain during intercourse. Many women hesitate to bring this up, but it’s an important clue for early detection.
4. Heavy or Irregular Menstrual Bleeding
Unusually heavy periods, prolonged bleeding, or spotting between cycles can also point to endometriosis. These irregularities happen because the condition can disrupt normal uterine and hormonal function.
5. Fertility Challenges
Endometriosis is strongly linked with difficulty conceiving, though many women still manage to get pregnant naturally. If painful periods are paired with fertility struggles, it’s worth getting evaluated.
6. Digestive and Urinary Symptoms Linked to Periods
Endometriosis can involve the bowel and bladder, causing:
• Painful bowel movements or constipation during periods
• Diarrhea or bloating tied to the menstrual cycle
• Painful urination or even blood in the urine during periods
These are often misdiagnosed as IBS or urinary tract infections, further delaying proper treatment.
Why Early Recognition Matters
Unfortunately, many women wait 7–10 years before receiving a proper diagnosis of endometriosis. The good news is that awareness is improving, and today we have gynecologists in Dubai who specialize in endometriosis care. Early recognition and medical attention can:
• Prevent the disease from progressing and causing organ damage
• Improve fertility outcomes
• Provide quicker pain relief and enhance quality of life
• Offer a broader range of treatment options, from medical therapies to advanced minimally invasive surgery
When to Seek Medical Advice in Dubai / UAE
If these symptoms sound familiar, don’t ignore them. Seek help from a gynecologist with expertise in endometriosis. In Dubai, specific diagnostic tools such as transvaginal ultrasound, MRI are available to accurately evaluate and treat the condition.
Final Thoughts
Endometriosis is not just “bad periods.” Listening to your body and acting early can change your health journey completely. If you or someone you know struggles with chronic pelvic pain, heavy bleeding, or fertility issues, reach out to a specialist in endometriosis. Early diagnosis means better treatment, better fertility prospects, and a better quality of life.
Dr. Alphy S Puthiyidom
MBBS, MD(Obs&Gn),FMIS(Laparoscopy)
Head of the Department Obstetrics & Gynecology
Director- Center Of Excellence Minimally Invasive Gynecology Surgery
Director – Center of Excellence Multideciplinary Endometriosis Care
MEDICLINIC WELCARE HOSPITAL
Al Garhoud, Dubai
MEDICLINIC PARKVIEW HOSPITAL
Umm Sequim, Al Barsha South 3, Dubai
Dr Alphy S Puthiyidom
Appointments 800-1999
www.mediclinic.ae