Understanding endometriosis: When period pain feels more than usual
Last updated: 18 Dec. 2025
Reviewed by: Specialist doctors from the Elfcare quality team
Do your periods bring intense cramps that interfere with your routine, or discomfort that continues even outside your cycle? Many women normalise severe menstrual pain, but sometimes it can be a sign of something deeper, such as endometriosis.
Endometriosis is a common yet often misunderstood condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus. These misplaced cells respond to monthly hormonal changes, leading to inflammation, pain, and sometimes fertility challenges.
Elfcare’s preventive approach focuses on awareness and helping you understand how your hormones and reproductive health are connected, so you can act early and maintain balance.
Book a consultation to test your health
What is endometriosis?
In a healthy menstrual cycle, the uterine lining thickens and sheds each month. In endometriosis, similar tissue appears in areas such as the ovaries, fallopian tubes, pelvic walls, or bladder.
During each cycle, this tissue thickens and bleeds but because it’s outside the uterus, the blood has no way to exit, leading to inflammation, scar tissue, and sometimes cysts (endometriomas).
Endometriosis affects millions of women during their reproductive years, but with early recognition and monitoring, symptoms can be managed effectively to support long-term health and fertility.
Symptoms of endometriosis
Common endometriosis symptoms include:
Severe period pain that interferes with daily activities
Pelvic or lower back pain between periods
Pain during or after intercourse
Heavy or irregular menstrual bleeding
Bloating, constipation, or digestive discomfort around periods
Fatigue, low energy, or nausea during menstruation
Difficulty conceiving (in some cases)
The severity of pain doesn’t always reflect the extent of the condition. Some women with mild lesions experience severe pain, while others with extensive growths may feel little discomfort. That’s why awareness and testing matter.
What causes endometriosis?
The exact cause of endometriosis isn’t fully understood, but several factors contribute to its development:
Retrograde menstruation: menstrual blood flows backward into the pelvis.
Hormonal imbalance: especially elevated oestrogen levels.
Immune system dysfunction: the body doesn’t clear misplaced tissue effectively.
Genetic predisposition: family history increases risk.
Inflammation: chronic low-grade inflammation supports lesion growth.
Environmental or lifestyle factors: such as stress, poor sleep, or exposure to endocrine disruptors.
While the condition can’t always be prevented, early detection and hormonal balance can help control its progression.
How do you detect endometriosis?
Diagnosis usually combines clinical evaluation, ultrasound or MRI, and sometimes laparoscopy (a minor surgical procedure to confirm and remove lesions). But blood biomarkers can also reveal patterns of inflammation and hormone imbalance linked to the condition.
Key biomarkers include:
CA-125: may be elevated in women with endometriosis.
CRP (C-reactive protein): indicates underlying inflammation.
Oestradiol and progesterone: reveal hormonal imbalance affecting tissue growth.
LH (luteinising hormone) and FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone): show reproductive hormone interaction.
Vitamin D: supports immune and hormonal regulation.
Iron and ferritin: monitor for anaemia from heavy bleeding.
Elfcare’s imaging and blood tests measure hormone and inflammation markers that help detect early imbalances, so you can address them before symptoms escalate.
Why early detection matters
Endometriosis often develops gradually, with subtle symptoms that worsen over time. Early detection allows you to:
Balance hormones through lifestyle or medical guidance
Track inflammation and nutritional status
Prevent chronic pain and fertility complications
Make informed decisions with your gynaecologist about treatment and monitoring
Understanding your body’s signals early helps you protect both your comfort and long-term reproductive health.
Elfcare’s preventive health checks include biomarkers related to hormonal balance, inflammation, and nutrient status. Tracking these values regularly helps you understand your cycle’s pattern and discuss results confidently with your doctor.
Elfcare’s focus is awareness, not diagnosis, and helping you take informed, proactive steps to maintain hormonal harmony and overall well-being.
Curious about your hormonal balance? Elfcare’s blood tests give you insights into oestrogen, progesterone, and inflammation levels early, so you can act with confidence and take charge of your reproductive health.
How Elfcare can help
Summary
Endometriosis is common but often overlooked. Recognising early signs and tracking hormone and inflammation markers can make all the difference. With regular monitoring, lifestyle care, and informed medical support, most women can manage symptoms effectively and lead active, fulfilling lives.
When you understand your body, you can make choices that support your comfort, balance, and long-term reproductive health.
Last updated: 18 Dec. 2025
Reviewed by: Specialist doctors from the quality team at Elfcare
FAQs
What is endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus. This tissue responds to hormonal changes, leading to inflammation and pain. It commonly affects the ovaries, pelvis, and surrounding tissues and can significantly impact daily life.
What are the most common symptoms of endometriosis?
Symptoms include chronic pelvic pain, painful periods, pain during intercourse, and difficulty conceiving. Some individuals may also experience fatigue, bloating, or bowel discomfort. Symptom severity does not always match the extent of the condition.
How is endometriosis diagnosed?
Diagnosis is based on symptoms, pelvic examinations, imaging such as ultrasound or MRI, and sometimes laparoscopic surgery. Because symptoms can mimic other conditions, diagnosis may take time. Early evaluation helps reduce complications.
Can endometriosis be treated or prevented?
There is no cure, but symptoms can be managed through medication, hormone therapy, surgery, and supportive self-care. Early treatment and lifestyle strategies can greatly improve comfort and quality of life.