endometriosis pain workplace prevention

Overview

Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the womb grows outside the womb. This can cause pain, heavy periods, and sometimes fertility problems. The pain can be worse during menstruation and can affect your ability to work.

Yes, endometriosis affects around 1 in 10 people with a womb of reproductive age.

It usually affects people aged 15 to 49, but it can start at puberty. It can affect anyone who has periods, regardless of age.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Severe period pain that is not relieved by usual painkillers
• Pelvic pain that lasts a long time
• Pain during or after sex
• Painful bowel movements or painful urination
• Heavy menstrual bleeding
• Chronic fatigue

Symptoms in children

• Similar symptoms to adults, such as period pain and pelvic pain
• Pain that affects school or social activities
• Some young people may also have irregular periods or tummy upsets

Symptoms in older adults

• Symptoms often improve after menopause
• Hormone treatment may be stopped, but some people still have pain
• Pain may be less linked to periods and more constant

Causes

Main causes

• The exact cause is unknown, but it is thought that menstrual blood with womb-lining cells flows backwards into the pelvis
• Hormones may cause the misplaced tissue to thicken and bleed, leading to inflammation and pain
• There may be a genetic link; you are more likely to have it if a close relative does

Risk factors

• Starting your period at an early age
• Short menstrual cycles (less than 27 days)
• Heavy or long periods
• Low body weight or high stress
• Never having given birth

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• You have severe pain that does not respond to usual pain relief
• You have new or unusual bleeding between periods or after sex
• You feel a constant pressure or fullness in your pelvis

Book a routine appointment if:

• You have period pain that interferes with your work or daily life
• You have pain during sex or when going to the toilet
• You have been trying to get pregnant for over a year and also have pain

Diagnosis

Endometriosis can be hard to diagnose. Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and may do a pelvic exam. An ultrasound can help find cysts, but the only certain way to confirm it is a laparoscopy, a keyhole surgery.

Tests that may be done

• Pelvic exam
• Ultrasound (transvaginal)
• MRI scan
• Laparoscopy (surgical biopsy)

What to expect at your appointment

Your doctor may refer you to a gynecologist. The process can take time, so it's important to be honest about how pain affects you. Keep a diary of symptoms to share.

Treatment

There is no cure, but treatments can help manage pain, reduce symptoms, and improve quality of life. Treatment plans are personal and may change over time.

Self-care at home

• Use a heating pad or warm bath for pain relief
• Try gentle rest during flares, and avoid heavy lifting
• Use comfortable clothing and shoes at work
• Try relaxation techniques like deep breathing or mindfulness
• Use a small desk heater or heat wrap if allowed at work

Medical treatments

Treatments include over-the-counter pain relief (ask your pharmacist or doctor), hormonal treatments that reduce or stop periods, and other prescription medications that affect hormones. Some treatments work well for pain but are not suitable for everyone. Your doctor will explain options and benefits. Never take new medicines without talking to your doctor.

When is surgery considered?

If medicines do not control pain, surgery may be an option. A laparoscopic procedure can remove patches of endometriosis tissue. In severe cases, a hysterectomy (removal of the womb) might be considered, but this is a big decision and only recommended in certain situations.

Living with this condition

At work, plan ahead for painful days. Use flexible working hours if possible, take short breaks, and have a heat pack ready. Let a trusted colleague know so they can support you.

Lifestyle tips

• Get regular sleep and manage stress
• Do gentle exercise like walking or swimming
• Avoid smoking and limit alcohol
• Use period tracking apps to predict flares

Diet and exercise

A balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains may help reduce inflammation. Some people find cutting down on caffeine and processed foods helps. Gentle exercise can relieve pain, but listen to your body and rest when needed.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Living with chronic pain can cause stress, anxiety, and low mood. It is normal to feel this way. Talk to your doctor or a mental health professional. If you ever feel you cannot cope or have thoughts of self-harm, please reach out to a crisis line or call your local emergency number.

Prevention

There is no known way to prevent endometriosis. But early diagnosis and a good management plan can prevent pain from taking over your life.

Vaccines

There is no vaccine for endometriosis.

Screening programmes

There is no routine screening, but regular gynecological check-ups can help monitor any changes.

Complications

If left untreated

• Severe chronic pelvic pain
• Adhesions (bands of scar tissue that can bind organs together)
• Ovarian cysts (endometriomas)
• Fertility problems
• Fatigue and reduced quality of life

Long-term outlook

Many people with endometriosis lead full lives. With the right treatment, support, and self-care, symptoms can be managed. Symptoms may improve with pregnancy or after menopause. The outlook is positive for most when they get the help they need.

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