Let’s have a real conversation about endometriosis—what it is, what it isn’t, and why so many people are still being misdiagnosed or dismissed. At Break Free Pelvic Health & Wellness, we specialize in treating pelvic floor dysfunction and supporting those with endometriosis. Also, March is Endometriosis Awareness Month, making it the perfect time to shed light on this condition that affects millions.
If you’re dealing with painful periods, bladder or bowel issues, pain with sex, or unexplained bloating and fatigue, endometriosis could be the culprit. And yet, so many people struggle for years—sometimes decades—before getting real answers. Let us help you.
Endometriosis isn’t just about painful periods—it’s now understood to be a condition that affects both the nervous system and immune system, causing widespread inflammation. The inflammation can lead to scarring and abnormal tissue that can grow deep into other areas of the body – leading to a myriad of symptoms that make it difficult to diagnose and detect.
For example, the uterus and bladder can become stuck to each other because of this scarring, which can lead to symptoms affecting fertility, menstruation as well as bladder pain or symptoms of overactive bladder. The bowels are commonly involved and affected by painful bowel movements, bloating, digestive disorders and constipation. Endometriosis can develop anywhere in the body beyond the reproductive area, bladder and bowels. It has been found in the diaphragm, sinuses and even the brain.
There are a few myths about endometriosis that we hear at Break Free, such as Endometriosis is an uterine disease…well that is not true. Endometriosis is not a uterus disease. The abnormal tissue looks like the uterine lining but is a separate inflammatory disease. Removing the uterus (hysterectomy) does not cure it. Another myth is that endometriosis only affects the reproductive system. FALSE! Endometriosis can grow anywhere in the body, including the bladder, bowels, diaphragm, lungs, and even the brain. It’s not just a gynecological issue. And the third myth we always hear is: there are many ways to cure endometriosis. Well, that is not true…in fact, there are no cures for endometriosis other than excision surgery performed by a trained specialist. Hysterectomy, pregnancy, and menopause do not eliminate the disease. Ablation, which burns the tissue instead of removing it, can actually make symptoms worse. Dr. Gretchen and Dr. Kaleigh are here to help you with this and make sure you are not guided incorrectly, especially in the Charleston area.
If you are not sure if you have endometriosis, here are key warning signs (however, not everyone with endometriosis will have these symptoms):
- Severe Pain – Often tied to your cycle but can occur anytime. Pain in the abdomen, back, hips, or legs that disrupts daily life is not normal. We define “severe pain” if it stops you from going to work, school, activities, etc. and requires medication to function.
- Painful Sex – Especially deep pain with penetration or lingering discomfort.
- Painful Bowel Movements – Constipation, diarrhea, or cramping, especially around your period.
- Abdominal Bloating (“Endo Belly”) – Painful swelling that comes and goes.
- Infertility or Recurrent Miscarriage – Endometriosis can impact egg quality, implantation, and pregnancy.
- Fatigue
There are some ways you can advocate for yourself but please know and let girl adolescents know that severe period pain is not normal and should not be dismissed. It is important to find a knowledgeable provider; not all gynecologists specialize in diagnosing or excising endometriosis. Please make sure you read our reviews to see why patients trust us as knowledgeable providers for endometriosis care in the Charleston area. Also, know your imaging options. Some endometriosis can be seen on MRI or ultrasound, but laparoscopic excision is the gold standard for diagnosis. We have compiled a curated list of helpful resources for endometriosis. Email us at admin@breakfreept.info, and we’d be happy to share it with you.
Give us a call at 843-471-0351 or fill out the form here for more information on how we can help you today!
