01/04/2026
Endometriosis is a chronic, often debilitating disease where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, affecting 1 in 10 women. It causes severe pelvic pain, heavy periods, infertility, and fatigue, typically managed through pain relief, hormonal medication, or surgery.
While the exact cause is unknown, it is influenced by estrogen, immune dysfunction, and genetics, with symptoms often dismissed, leading to delayed diagnosis
Symptoms
Chronic pelvic pain: Often severe during, before, or after menstruation.
Painful in*******se: Pain during or after s*x.
Painful urination or bowel movements: Especially during menstruation.
Infertility or difficulty getting pregnant.
Heavy menstrual bleeding.
Fatigue and exhaustion.
Other symptoms:
Bloating, nausea, and rarely, bleeding from other areas like the chest, causing coughing up blood.
Endometriosis-related sore gums are caused by systemic inflammation and hormonal fluctuations, which can increase the risk of periodontal disease by 50%. Symptoms include tender, bleeding, or swollen gums, often peaking during menstruation. Proper oral hygiene, warm salt water rinses, and regular dental checkups are crucial to manage this inflammation.
In addition to talking to their doctor, people affected by endometriosis may find additional advice and emotional assistance in local patient support groups.
Multidisciplinary pain management approaches, including physiotherapy and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), can also help to reduce endometriosis-related pain and improve quality of life. These therapies target both physical symptoms and the emotional burden associated with the disease.
Endometriosis has significant health, social and economic implications. Severe pain, heavy menstrual bleeding, fatigue, depression, anxiety, infertility, poor s*xual health and social isolation can dramatically reduce quality of life.
Endometriosis is associated with infertility globally. Amongst women with infertility, as many as 25-50% have endometriosis. Heavy menstrual bleeding from endometriosis can contribute to iron deficiency and fatigue. Painful s*x due to endometriosis can lead to interruption or avoidance of in*******se and impact the s*xual health of affected individuals and their partners.
At present, there is no known way to prevent or cure endometriosis. Enhanced awareness, early diagnosis and quality health care may slow or halt the progression of the disease and reduce long-term symptoms, including possibly the risk of central nervous system pain sensitisation.
If you have any concerns or questions regarding any of the above information contact the clinic to schedule an appointment by calling 03 5144 4788 or go online: www.clockmed.com.au to schedule an appointment.
.