Understanding Endometriosis: What Every Woman Should Know

Endometriosis is one of the most misunderstood and underdiagnosed conditions affecting women today. Despite affecting 1 in 10 women of reproductive age worldwide, awareness remains low, especially in many African communities, including Nigeria. For many, the pain is dismissed as “normal period pain,” leaving them to suffer in silence.

Let’s change that by shining a light on what endometriosis is, its symptoms, causes, management options, and how nutrition plays a role in supporting overall wellness.

What Is Endometriosis?

Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus (endometrium) grows outside the uterus, often on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, pelvic walls, or even the bladder and intestines.

These tissues respond to hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle — they thicken, break down, and bleed. But unlike menstrual blood that exits the body during a period, this blood has nowhere to go. This leads to inflammation, pain, scar tissue, and sometimes fertility issues.

Common Symptoms of Endometriosis

Symptoms can vary widely — some women have severe pain; others may not even realise they have it. Common signs include:

• Painful periods (dysmenorrhea) — intense cramping not relieved by regular painkillers

• Chronic pelvic pain

• Pain during or after sex

• Painful bowel movements or urination during menstruation

• Heavy bleeding (menorrhagia) or bleeding between periods

• Fatigue

• Bloating and digestive problems

• Difficulty getting pregnant

It’s important to note that painful periods are not always normal; persistent or severe pain should be investigated.

What Causes Endometriosis?

The exact cause is still unclear, but some theories include:

• Retrograde menstruation: Menstrual blood flows backward into the pelvis instead of exiting through the vagina.

• Hormonal imbalances: Especially excess estrogen.

• Immune system disorders that prevent the body from destroying misplaced tissue.

• Genetics: Having a close relative with endometriosis increases risk.

• Environmental toxins like dioxins may also play a role.

How Is Endometriosis Diagnosed?

Diagnosis can be tricky. Many women go 7–10 years without a correct diagnosis. A combination of the following is often used:

• Medical history and symptoms

• Pelvic exams

• Ultrasound or MRI

• Laparoscopy (keyhole surgery) – the gold standard for confirming diagnosis

Treatment and Management

There is no known cure, but several treatments can manage symptoms and improve quality of life:

1. Pain Management

• NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen) for mild pain

• Hormonal treatments (e.g., birth control pills, IUDs, GnRH agonists) to reduce hormone levels

• Surgery to remove or burn endometrial tissue

2. Lifestyle & Nutrition Support

• Anti-inflammatory diets

• Stress management

• Regular exercise

• Adequate sleep

3. Fertility Treatment

If endometriosis causes infertility, assisted reproductive technologies like IVF may help.

Nutrition and Endometriosis: Food as Support

While food cannot cure endometriosis, a balanced, anti-inflammatory diet may help reduce pain, support hormone balance, and improve energy.

Anti-Inflammatory Foods to Include:

• Leafy greens like ugu, bitter leaf, and spinach

• Fruits such as pineapple, oranges, and watermelon

• Whole grains like millet, guinea corn, oats

• Healthy fats from avocados, nuts, egusi, flaxseeds

• Omega-3 rich fish like mackerel (Titus), sardines

• Spices like turmeric and ginger — natural anti-inflammatories

• Herbal teas (e.g., zobo made with hibiscus petals and ginger, without sugar)

Foods to Limit or Avoid:

• Red meat (especially processed)

• Excess dairy (for some individuals)

• Refined sugars and sugary drinks

• Fried and fast foods

• Excess caffeine and alcohol

Tip: Keeping a food and symptom journal can help identify personal triggers.

Endometriosis and Mental Health

Living with chronic pain and fertility issues can lead to anxiety, depression, and isolation. That’s why emotional support is just as important. Women with endometriosis need:

• Safe spaces to share their experiences

• Supportive healthcare professionals

• Mental health care when needed

• A community that understands

At TGNC, we advocate for compassionate care, awareness, and education. No woman should be left to suffer in silence.

When to Seek Help

You don’t need to have all the symptoms to speak to a healthcare provider. See a doctor if:

• Period pain interferes with school, work, or everyday activities

• You’ve been trying to conceive for a year without success

• You have persistent pelvic pain, bloating, or fatigue

• You feel dismissed or misunderstood — seek a second opinion if necessary

Final Thoughts

Endometriosis is real, painful, and often invisible — but it is not unbeatable. With the right combination of medical care, nutrition, and support, women can live healthy, fulfilling lives despite the condition.

Let’s break the silence. Let’s raise awareness. Let’s support one another.

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