How do I tell endometriosis from normal period pain?

Bottom lineOrdinary period pain is cramping in the first day or two that's manageable with simple measures, while endometriosis pain tends to be severe, not relieved by usual painkillers, present beyond your period (including during sex or with bowel or bladder symptoms), and disruptive to daily life, often worsening over time; severe period pain isn't something to just endure, so see a clinician and be specific and persistent.

Period pain is common, but endometriosis pain tends to be more severe and far-reaching. The difference is often in how intense the pain is, how long it lasts, and how much it disrupts your life.

Signs that point to endometriosis

• Severe pain that isn't relieved by usual painkillers
• Pain that stops you doing normal activities - missing work, school, or events
• Pain beyond your period - including before it, mid-cycle, or ongoing pelvic pain
• Pain during or after sex
• Bowel or bladder pain, especially around your period
• Heavy periods and sometimes difficulty getting pregnant
• Symptoms that have worsened over time

What's more typical of ordinary period pain

• Cramping in the first day or two of your period
• Pain that's manageable with simple measures or over-the-counter relief
• Pain that doesn't dominate your life or spread beyond your period

The bottom line

Severe period pain is not something to just endure. If pain is intense, lasts beyond your period, or disrupts your life, see a clinician - it could be endometriosis or another condition that deserves evaluation. Diagnosis is often delayed, so be specific and persistent.

Femora helps you track pain severity, timing, and triggers so you can show a clinician how it differs from ordinary period pain.