Symptoms of endometriosis: 10 signs you shouldn’t ignore

Endometriosis: what is this condition and how is it treated at Avicenna Med

Endometriosis is a chronic gynaecological condition in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus. It can affect the ovaries, fallopian tubes, peritoneum and other pelvic organs. This is precisely why the endometriosis symptoms often only become apparent after a woman has endured severe pain, heavy periods or discomfort for years, without realising that this may not be a ‘normal part of her cycle’ but a medical condition.

The symptoms of endometriosis can significantly impair quality of life and are one of the common causes of female infertility. At Avicenna Med, patients are offered a modern approach to diagnosis and treatment, with a focus on preserving reproductive health. Our medical centre has been operating in Kyiv at 48 Dehtiarivska Street since 2017 and combines gynaecological consultations, diagnostics, laboratory tests and modern treatment protocols.

Symptoms of endometriosis: 10 key signs that require a gynaecologist’s attention

The endometriosis symptoms often develop gradually, so a woman may for a long time mistake pain or unusual discharge for a normal part of her cycle. But if the discomfort recurs every month, worsens, or affects work, sleep, sex life, or plans for pregnancy, it is worth seeing a gynaecologist. You should be particularly vigilant in situations where the pain does not subside after taking standard painkillers or returns after a few hours. Here are the main signs of endometriosis that should not be ignored:

1. Extremely painful periods, or dysmenorrhoea, where the pain makes it difficult to walk, work or sleep.
2. Chronic pelvic pain, which may occur not only during your period.
3. Discomfort or deep pain during sexual intercourse.
4. Pain when urinating during your period.
5. Pain during bowel movements, especially in the first few days of the cycle.
6. Heavy bleeding, when your period is heavier than usual.
7. Spotting between periods.
8. Chronic fatigue, weakness, or a feeling of exhaustion for no apparent reason.
9. Gastrointestinal problems: bloating, diarrhoea, constipation or nausea.
10. Lower back pain and difficulty conceiving.

If you recognise even a few of these symptoms, don’t wait for them to ‘go away on their own’. Endometriosis can progress, and early diagnosis helps to identify the cause of the pain and find the right treatment more quickly. You should see a gynaecologist not only if you have severe symptoms, but also if your period has changed, you’re experiencing new discomfort, or you haven’t got pregnant for a long time.

The dangers of ignoring symptoms and possible complications of the condition

Endometriosis tends to progress, so it is dangerous to ignore pain, unusual discharge or changes to your cycle. Often, a woman looks for endometriosis symptoms only when the discomfort has already become a regular occurrence, but it is precisely at this stage that it is important not to delay seeking advice. Without treatment, the lesions can grow, sustain inflammation and affect the functioning of the pelvic organs. We invite you to familiarise yourself with the possible complications of endometriosis:

• endometrioid cysts on the ovaries, which can affect ovarian reserve;
• extensive adhesions in the pelvis;
• abnormalities in the anatomy of the fallopian tubes, ovaries and neighbouring organs;
• chronic pelvic pain that does not subside after menstruation;
• pain during sexual intercourse, urination or bowel movements;
• difficulty conceiving;
• persistent infertility in cases of long-term, uncontrolled disease.

The most serious consequence is the loss of time, which is crucial for preserving reproductive health. If the signs of endometriosis are detected early, the specialists at Avicenna Med can select a treatment, slow the progression of the disease and help preserve the chance of becoming a mother. That is why even a few suspicious symptoms are a reason to book an appointment with a gynaecologist, rather than waiting for the next cycle.

Mental preparation: how to overcome the fear of surgery for endometriosis

Fear of surgery for endometriosis is a natural reaction, especially when the patient does not fully understand what exactly will happen during the procedure. Anxiety can be exacerbated by pain, previous negative experiences, concerns about reproductive health, and uncertainty regarding recovery. That is why it is important not to keep these thoughts to yourself: if the symptoms of endometriosis are already affecting your quality of life, an open conversation with your doctor helps you see not only the problem but also a clear path to resolving it.

At our Avicenna Med clinic, we explain the treatment plan, the course of the operation, the specifics of preparation, and the recovery period to the patient in detail. Trust in the medical team reduces anxiety levels, as the patient understands the purpose of each stage and how doctors ensure safety. The clinic’s specialists are ready to answer questions from the patient and her loved ones, explain which symptoms of endometriosis indicated the need for surgical treatment, and provide psychological support without pressure or unnecessary fear.

Comprehensive diagnosis: expert-grade ultrasound and laboratory tests

The diagnosis of endometriosis begins with a thorough consultation with a gynaecologist, a physical examination and a review of medical history. The doctor will ask when the pain began, how menstruation is experienced, whether there is spotting, discomfort during sexual intercourse, problems with conception or bowel-related symptoms. This is why, when endometriosis symptoms arise, it is important to undergo a full examination to understand the cause of the changes in the body. Comprehensive diagnosis at Avicenna Med may involve several stages:

1. A consultation with a gynaecologist, including a detailed review of your symptoms and menstrual cycle.
2. A gynaecological examination to assess the condition of the pelvic organs.
3. Expert-grade transvaginal ultrasound to detect cysts, adhesions and possible endometrioid lesions.
4. Blood tests and hormone panels in our own laboratory, including CITO! – urgent.
5. MRI where indicated, if a more precise determination of the location of deep lesions is required.

This approach helps not only to confirm the diagnosis but also to see the full picture of the condition. When the symptoms of endometriosis are combined with the results of ultrasound, blood tests and MRI, the doctor can pinpoint the location of endometriotic lesions more accurately and plan the next steps in treatment. This is particularly important if the patient wishes to preserve her reproductive health and avoid unnecessary delays.

Modern treatments for endometriosis: from hormone therapy to surgery

At Avicenna Med, treatment for endometriosis is tailored to each individual, as the same diagnosis can present differently. The doctor takes into account the patient’s age, the intensity of pain, plans regarding pregnancy, ultrasound results, the presence of cysts, adhesions and associated conditions. If symptoms of endometriosis are detected at an early stage, conservative therapy is often preferred, as it helps to control pain and suppress the activity of the lesions. The main treatment approaches may include:

• hormone therapy to suppress the growth of endometriotic lesions;
• pain relief to reduce pelvic pain and discomfort during menstruation;
• regular check-ups with a gynaecologist and ultrasound monitoring;
• preparation for pregnancy once the condition has stabilised;
• surgical intervention for endometrioid cysts, severe adhesions or infertility.

If the signs of endometriosis indicate a more complex course, such as the formation of cysts, abnormalities in the anatomy of the pelvis or difficulty conceiving, the doctor may recommend surgery. In such cases, the aim of surgical treatment is to remove as much of the affected tissue as possible, reduce pain and preserve the patient’s reproductive potential.

3D laparoscopy and Da Vinci surgery for effective treatment of endometriosis

At Avicenna Med, we use minimally invasive 3D laparoscopy and robotic technologies for the surgical treatment of endometriosis, which enable us to treat even complex and deep lesions. When signs of endometriosis indicate cysts, adhesions or damage to pelvic tissues, it is important not simply to remove the affected areas, but to do so with the utmost precision. It is for such cases that our clinic, Avicenna Med, offers Da Vinci robotic surgery – a modern surgical approach that gives the surgeon enhanced control during complex procedures. Advantages of 3D laparoscopy and robotic surgery for endometriosis:

1. Precise visualisation of the surgical field in 3D.
2. The ability to remove deep endometriotic lesions in hard-to-reach areas.
3. Minimal impact on healthy ovarian tissue.
4. Preservation of ovarian reserve, which is particularly important when planning a pregnancy.
5. Minimisation of blood loss during surgery.
6. Small incisions instead of large scars.
7. Faster recovery compared to open surgery.

Such techniques are particularly important when the symptoms of endometriosis are already significantly affecting quality of life or preventing pregnancy. The surgeon is able to work with precision, control every movement and minimise tissue trauma. For the patient, this means a gentler procedure, a shorter road to recovery and a better chance of preserving reproductive health.

Why should you entrust your women’s health to the gynaecologists at Avicenna Med?

Avicenna Med is a medical centre in Kyiv, operating under a Ministry of Health licence, which combines consultations, diagnostics, surgical treatment and post-operative care. Patients are treated by top-tier gynaecological surgeons with European experience, and state-of-the-art equipment helps to accurately assess endometriosis symptoms and select the right treatment plan without unnecessary procedures. A key advantage of our clinic is our sensitive approach, absolute confidentiality and attentive consideration of issues that are not always easy to discuss openly.

For patients who wish to receive a clear plan of action, we at Avicenna Med offer a gynaecological consultation including an examination, an analysis of your symptoms, and recommendations for further diagnosis. If you are already experiencing symptoms of endometriosis, do not delay your visit. We have a comfortable 24-hour inpatient ward, modern operating theatres and transparent pricing for our services with no hidden fees.

FAQ

• Does severe pain during your period always mean endometriosis?

No, not always. The pain may be linked to other gynaecological causes, inflammation, fibroids or cycle irregularities. But if the pain is severe, recurs every month, is difficult to relieve with medication or interferes with your daily life, this is a reason to see a gynaecologist.

• Can endometriosis be seen on an ultrasound scan?

An ultrasound scan can detect endometrioid ovarian cysts and some indirect signs of the condition. If deep endometriosis is suspected, the doctor may also recommend an MRI scan. However, a diagnosis is not made based on a single test alone. Symptoms, medical history, a physical examination and the full clinical picture are all important.

• Can endometriosis be treated without surgery?

Yes, some patients are treated with medication. This can reduce pain and the activity of the lesions. However, if there are cysts, severe adhesions, severe pain or problems conceiving, the doctor may recommend surgical treatment. The approach depends on the stage, symptoms and reproductive plans.

• When should you make an urgent appointment with a gynaecologist?

Book an appointment if your periods have become very painful, you experience spotting between periods, pain during intercourse, bowel problems during your period, or difficulty conceiving. It is better to have these symptoms checked sooner rather than wait for them to worsen.

• Can you get pregnant with endometriosis?

Yes, pregnancy is possible. However, endometriosis can make it harder to conceive, particularly if you have cysts, adhesions or damage to the fallopian tubes. It is important to undergo diagnostic tests and discuss a plan of action with your gynaecologist. In some cases, treatment and monitoring are sufficient; in others, surgery or a consultation with a fertility specialist may be required.