endometriosis pain on one side

Overview

Endometriosis is a condition in which tissue similar to the lining of the womb grows outside the womb, such as on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or bowel. This tissue can cause pain, swelling, and scarring. Sometimes the pain is felt mainly on one side of the lower belly or pelvis.

Yes. Endometriosis is a common condition. It affects millions of people worldwide, though many live with symptoms for years before getting a diagnosis.

It usually affects people who menstruate, most often between the ages of 15 and 49. It can continue into menopause, although symptoms may change. Some people have severe pain, while others have no symptoms at all.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Pain on one side of the lower belly or pelvis that comes and goes
• Worse pain before or during your period
• Sharp or stabbing pain in one spot that might feel like a pull or tug
• Pain during or after sex
• Heavy or painful periods
• Pain when you pee or poo, especially during your period
• Feeling tired and low on energy

Symptoms in children

• Period pain that makes them miss school or activities
• Cramps that start a few days before bleeding begins
• One-sided belly pain that feels sharp or like a cramp

Symptoms in older adults

• Pelvic pain that may change after menopause but can still happen
• Pain that is mistaken for other conditions like irritable bowel syndrome
• Pain during or after sex

Causes

Main causes

• The exact cause of endometriosis is not fully known.
• It may happen when menstrual blood flows backward into the pelvis and endometrial-like cells implant and grow.
• Hormones, immune system problems, and genetics may also play a role.

Risk factors

• A family history of endometriosis
• Starting your period at a young age (before 12)
• Short monthly cycles (fewer than 27 days) or heavy, long periods
• Never having given birth

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• Pain that is getting worse over days and is affecting your ability to eat, sleep, or move
• Pain with fever, vomiting, or heavy bleeding
• Sudden severe pain that comes on fast

Book a routine appointment if:

• Pain that happens with your period and is not controlled by self-care
• Pain during or after sex
• Pain when you pee or poo that happens regularly
• Any new pelvic pain that does not go away

Diagnosis

To diagnose endometriosis, your doctor will ask about your symptoms, examine your belly and pelvis, and may arrange tests. The only way to be completely sure is a small operation called a laparoscopy, but not everyone needs that.

Tests that may be done

• Pelvic exam — your doctor checks the womb, ovaries, and surrounding areas by hand
• Ultrasound — a scan that uses sound waves to look for cysts or other changes
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) — a more detailed scan of the pelvis if needed
• Laparoscopy — a small camera inserted through a tiny cut in the belly to look directly for endometriosis patches and take a sample (biopsy) if needed

What to expect at your appointment

Diagnosis can take time. You may be asked to keep a symptom diary. You might need more than one appointment or test. Some people feel relieved that their pain is finally taken seriously. You and your doctor can decide together which tests are right for you.

Treatment

There is no cure for endometriosis, but treatment can help control pain, shrink or remove endometriosis patches, and protect your fertility if you want to have children. Your doctor will talk to you about the best plan based on your symptoms, age, and future plans.

Self-care at home

• Use a heat pack or hot-water bottle on your lower belly to relax the muscles
• Try gentle movement like stretching or walking
• Rest when you need to, especially on painful days
• Use relaxation techniques like deep breathing or mindfulness
• Ask your pharmacist about pain relief options that suit you

Medical treatments

Your doctor may suggest hormonal treatments to regulate or reduce your periods. These can be pills, intrauterine devices, or injections. They work by changing hormone levels to shrink endometriosis and reduce pain. Some people also use non-hormonal pain-relieving medicines. Your doctor will explain the options, benefits, and risks. Never change or stop a treatment without talking to your doctor first.

When is surgery considered?

If hormonal treatments or pain relief are not enough, your doctor may suggest a laparoscopy to remove endometriosis patches or cysts. In severe cases, surgery to remove part or all of the womb and ovaries may be discussed. This is a big decision and is usually only considered if you have finished childbearing and other treatments have not helped.

Living with this condition

Living with endometriosis pain can be exhausting and isolating. Try to pace yourself and plan around your most painful days. A symptom diary can help you spot triggers and show your doctor exactly what is happening.

Lifestyle tips

• Keep a regular bedtime to help with fatigue
• Try gentle exercise like swimming, yoga, or pilates
• Set boundaries and ask for help from family or friends
• Give yourself permission to rest when you are in pain

Diet and exercise

A balanced diet with plenty of vegetables, fruit, and whole grains can support your general health. Some people feel better when they eat fewer processed foods and less caffeine or alcohol. There is no single diet that fixes endometriosis, but eating well and moving in ways that feel comfortable can help your body.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Living with chronic pain can lead to low mood, anxiety, and frustration. These feelings are normal. Talk to your doctor or a mental health professional if you need support. If you are having thoughts of harming yourself, reach out to a crisis line in your country right away. You matter, and you deserve support.

Prevention

Endometriosis cannot be prevented, but earlier diagnosis and treatment can help reduce the impact of the condition on your daily life.

Complications

If left untreated

• Chronic pain that gets worse over time
• Adhesions — bands of scar tissue that can make organs stick together
• Cysts on the ovaries (endometriomas)
• Difficulty becoming pregnant (fertility problems)

Long-term outlook

There is no cure yet, but many people with endometriosis find effective ways to manage their pain. With the right treatment and support, you can live a full life. Researchers are learning more all the time, and new options are emerging.

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