7 things to know about endometriosis care

Endometriosis is more common than many women realize, and it can affect much more than your period. Symptoms can look different for everyone, which can make the condition harder to recognize. 

During Endometriosis Awareness Month, Madeline Bartram, DO at Ascension Seton, encourages women to trust their instincts, pay attention to changes in their bodies and speak up if something doesn’t feel right. Starting the conversation is often the first step toward finding answers and personalized care. Dr. Bartram answers 7 common questions around this condition:

How common is endometriosis?

Endometriosis is an inflammatory condition influenced by estrogen and most often affects women during their reproductive years. While it impacts a smaller percentage of women overall, it becomes much more common among those dealing with ongoing pelvic pain or difficulty getting pregnant. Many women facing infertility discover that endometriosis may be a contributing factor. It’s also frequently found in adolescents with chronic pelvic pain. 

Beyond the physical symptoms, endometriosis can affect emotional well-being and overall quality of life, which is why recognizing the signs and seeking care matters.

Can endometriosis affect fertility?

Yes. Over time, untreated endometriosis can cause inflammation and scarring inside the pelvis, which may affect fertility. As the condition progresses, the risk for fertility challenges can increase. That’s why ongoing pelvic pain should not be ignored or dismissed as “just bad periods.” 

While some menstrual cramping can be normal, especially in adolescents, severe pain that disrupts school, work or daily activities is not something you have to simply live with, and it may be a sign that it’s time to talk with your doctor.

What symptoms should you track?

If you’re preparing for an OB-GYN appointment, keeping track of your symptoms can help your care team better understand what you’re experiencing.

Consider documenting:

• Days of bleeding or spotting
• How symptoms affect your daily life
• Missed school or work due to symptoms
• Pain between periods
• Pain during your period
• Pain with certain activities (such as exercise, intercourse or using the bathroom)
• The length of your menstrual cycle

What matters most is how your symptoms are affecting your daily life. If they are limiting your activities, causing you stress, or leaving you searching for relief, that’s important — and it’s something you should feel comfortable discussing with your doctor.

Why does endometriosis take longer to diagnose? 

The only way to definitively diagnose endometriosis is through surgery. However, many women are able to begin treatment based on their symptoms and a thorough clinical evaluation.

Because the symptoms of endometriosis can overlap with other conditions, it may take time to rule out other possible causes of pelvic pain. In the past, pain was often expected to occur only during menstrual cycles. Today, we understand that symptoms don’t always follow a common pattern.

If there is a strong suspicion for endometriosis and other causes have been ruled out, treatment can often begin without surgery. Surgery remains an option, but it is not the only path to finding relief.

Is endometriosis care personalized?

There is no one-size-fits-all treatment plan for endometriosis. Your care is personalized based on your age, symptoms, medical history and future goals.

Treatment options may include:

• Hormonal medications, such as birth control
• Minimally invasive surgery
• Non-hormonal medications
• Pain management strategies

Some women prefer surgical confirmation, while others choose to begin with medical management. At Ascension Seton, we take time to listen and understand what matters most to you. Together, you and your doctor will create a care plan designed to support your health, your comfort and your long-term goals.

Are lifestyle changes helpful?

While some risk factors, such as family history or age, cannot be changed, taking steps to support your overall health may help with symptom management. Eating balanced meals, staying physically active and maintaining a healthy weight can contribute to reproductive wellness and overall well-being.

Most importantly, persistent or severe pain is not something you should ignore. If pain is affecting your daily life, it’s important to talk with your doctor and explore your options for care.

Why does Endometriosis Awareness Month matter?

Education and awareness help you better understand your body and recognize when something isn’t normal. Talking openly about endometriosis makes it easier to identify symptoms early and start informed conversations with your care team.

Greater awareness can lead to earlier evaluation, earlier treatment and an improved quality of life. It’s also a reminder that ongoing pelvic pain is not something you have to manage on your own — support and care are available when you’re ready.

Take the next step to find endometriosis care

If you are experiencing pelvic pain, painful periods or other symptoms that concern you, you do not have to navigate it alone. Dr. Bartram provides personalized women’s healthcare at Ascension Medical Group Seton Women’s Health – Lamar in Austin, Texas. Schedule an appointment today to discuss your symptoms and explore your options. Your care starts with a conversation.