8 Women with Endometriosis Describe What It Feels Like

Endometriosis is one of the most commonly misdiagnosed and misunderstood conditions—despite the fact that it affects an astounding one in 10 women between the ages of 15 and 44, according to the U.S. Office on Women’s Health. Part of the problem is that endometriosis is commonly confused for bad menstrual cramps. Many women muscle through their pain, assuming it’s normal; those who seek out the help of a doctor are not always taken seriously or given an accurate diagnosis.

Getting the word out on endometriosis symptoms — described by the women who experience them — is vital for empowering women to recognize their symptoms and advocate for themselves in the doctor’s office. Here’s exactly what endo feels like, according to eight women who experience it on an almost daily basis.

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Written by:

Lauren Smith, MA

Lauren Smith, MA, has worked in health journalism since 2017. Before joining GoodRx, she was the senior health editor and writer for HealthiNation.

Reviewed by:

Karen Hovav, MD, FAAP

Karen Hovav, MD, FAAP, has more than 15 years of experience as an attending pediatrician. She has worked in a large academic center in an urban city, a small community hospital, a private practice, and an urgent care clinic.

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