Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory condition in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows in places where it shouldn’t. It can appear on the ovaries, bowel, bladder, pelvic wall - even the diaphragm in some cases. It’s far more than a “bad period.” Endometriosis can cause severe pelvic pain, heavy bleeding, fatigue, digestive issues and fertility challenges. It’s a whole-body condition that deserves whole-body care.
Recognising the Signs
Endo doesn’t look the same for everyone. Symptoms can be loud, subtle, cyclical or constant, which is why so many people go years without answers. The most common signs include chronic pelvic pain, heavy or long periods, pain during or after sex, bloating, fatigue, digestive upset, pain when passing urine or stool and difficulty conceiving.
If you regularly miss work, cancel plans or reshape your life around pain, that’s not “just periods.” That’s a cue to get support. Start by tracking your symptoms for at least two cycles.
Building Your Care Team
Endo care works best when you’re supported from multiple angles. You don’t need to do everything at once, but you deserve a team that takes your pain seriously and treats your health holistically. Your core players include:
- GP: Your first stop for referrals, medication and ongoing management. Ask: “Can I be referred to an endometriosis specialist?”
- Gynaecologist: Can diagnose endo (via laparoscopy) and build a management plan. Ask: “Do you specialise in endometriosis?”
- Pelvic Physiotherapist: Supports pelvic floor tightness, muscle spasms and pain flares. Ask: “How can physio help with the pain I’m experiencing?”
- Nutritionist/Naturopath: Works on gut health, inflammation and hormonal balance. Ask: “What shifts could support my symptoms?”
- Psychologist: Pain, fatigue, and medical trauma take a toll. Mental health support matters. Ask: “Do you work with chronic illness clients?”
Going to an Appointment Prepared
Appointments can feel intimidating - especially if you’ve been dismissed before. Preparation helps shift the dynamic. The more clearly you can describe what’s happening in your body, the easier it is for your clinician to advocate for you.
- A symptom tracker
- A list of medications and supplements
- Notes on pain, energy and emotional well-being
- Questions you want answered
- A support person if appointments make you anxious
How to Explain Your Pain Clearly
- “It feels like hot wires wrapping around my stomach.”
- “Sharp pain through my hips when I walk.”
- “A deep ache that makes me nauseous.”
Go beyond numbers on a pain scale. Explain the effect:
- “I miss one to two workdays every cycle.”
- “Painkillers only work for an hour.”
- “I can’t sleep through the night on my heavy days.”
Smart Questions to Ask Your Doctor
- How can we confirm whether this is endometriosis?
- Do I need imaging or surgery to get clarity?
- What treatment options make sense for my symptoms?
- What should I know about hormonal treatments?
- Should I be referred to an endometriosis specialist surgeon?
- What lifestyle changes could support my symptoms?
- How often should I follow up with you?
- Can you refer me to a pelvic physio or psychologist?
- What should I track between now and my next appointment?
- Who do I contact if my symptoms worsen?
