Endometriosis Awareness
March marks Endometriosis Awareness Month, a time to educate, support, and advocate for the 1 in 9 Australian women and people assigned female at birth who live with this chronic condition. Endometriosis symptoms can be debilitating, yet many people experience delayed diagnoses due to a lack of awareness and medical understanding.
At Fanzy Pantz, we’re committed to empowering women with the knowledge and tools to manage their chronic pelvic pain and continue living fresh, fabulous, and free. This blog will cover what endometriosis is, its symptoms, how it affects fertility, and available treatment options. Plus, we’ll introduce the Endo Pack, designed to help manage endometriosis pain on the go.
What is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus. This tissue behaves like the uterine lining—thickening, breaking down, and bleeding with each menstrual cycle—but unlike a normal period, the blood has no way to exit the body. This leads to inflammation, scarring, and adhesions, which can cause severe pain and complications with fertility.
It takes an average of 7 to 12 years to receive an endometriosis diagnosis, making it one of the most underdiagnosed and misunderstood conditions in women’s health [Endometriosis Australia].
Common Endometriosis Symptoms
Endometriosis symptoms vary from person to person, making diagnosis difficult. The most commonly reported symptoms include:
- Severe pelvic pain and cramping, especially during menstruation
- Heavy menstrual bleeding or irregular periods
- Painful sex (dyspareunia)
- Painful bowel movements or urination during your period
- Digestive issues like bloating, nausea, diarrhoea, or constipation (often misdiagnosed as IBS)
- Fatigue and low energy levels
- Difficulty conceiving (endometriosis and fertility are closely linked)
If you experience chronic pelvic pain or any of these symptoms, it’s important to see a doctor specialising in endometriosis diagnosis [Epworth HealthCare].
How Endometriosis Affects Fertility
Many people with endometriosis struggle to conceive, as the condition can cause scarring, blockages in the fallopian tubes, and changes in egg quality. However, having endometriosis does not mean infertility is inevitable. Many individuals successfully conceive with the right medical interventions.
If you are trying to get pregnant and have been diagnosed with endometriosis, talk to a fertility specialist about your options [Australian Medical Association (AMA)].
Endometriosis Treatment Options
While there is no cure for endometriosis, several treatments can help manage endometriosis pain and improve quality of life.
1. Medical Treatments for Endometriosis
- Pain relief medications (NSAIDs like ibuprofen)
- Hormonal treatments (contraceptive pills, IUDs, or GnRH therapy)
- Surgical procedures (laparoscopy to remove endometrial tissue)
Your doctor will recommend the best treatment based on your symptoms and whether you’re trying to conceive [Endometriosis Australia].
2. Natural Remedies for Endometriosis
Many people explore natural remedies for endometriosis alongside medical treatments, including:
- An anti-inflammatory diet, rich in omega-3s, whole foods, and leafy greens
- Gentle exercise like yoga and Pilates to relieve tension
- Acupuncture and meditation to manage stress and pain
3. Heat Therapy for Endometriosis Pain Relief
One of the most effective ways to manage endometriosis pain naturally is heat therapy. Applying a heat pack to the lower abdomen can help relax muscles, improve circulation, and relieve cramps.
You Are Not Alone – Find Endometriosis Support Groups
Living with endometriosis can feel isolating, but there are support groups and online communities where you can connect with others who understand what you’re going through.
💛 Find support and learn more:
🔗 Endometriosis Australia
🔗 Epworth HealthCare – Endometriosis Centre
🔗 Australian Medical Association (AMA) on Endometriosis
