Endometriosis
Information in English
Do you suffer from severe menstrual pain, heavy bleeding, problems with digestion, pain during sex or infertilty?
Then you might have endometriosis
What is endo?
Endometriosis (endo) is a chronic disease in which tissue resembling the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus, causing inflammation and pain. Endometriosis has been found almost anywhere in the body and can increase the likelihood of other diseases.
The manifestation of the disease can differ, and symptoms can vary in severity. Sometimes, individuals are asymptomatic or have few symptoms, and are only diagnosed when other health issues arise, such as infertility.
Symptoms of endometriosis can include:
(People with endo can experience one or more symptoms.)
– Severe pain during menstruation
– Pain before menstruation
– Heavy/long periods
– Irregular periods and/or spotting
– Brown discharge before and after menstruation
– Severe pain during ovulation
– Abdominal pain
– Pain related to the bladder and/or urination
– Bloating
– Constipation and/or diarrhea
– Nausea and/or vomiting
– Pain related to the digestive system and bowel movements
– Pain during or after intercourse
– Infertility or subfertility
– Chronic fatigue
– Pain radiating to the back and/or down the back of the leg, often from the sciatic nerve.
I think I have endo, what should I do?
If you think you have endometriosis, it’s important to consult a doctor to get a diagnosis and/or get help managing your symptoms. You can seek help from either a general practitioner (heimilislæknir) or a gynecologist (kvensjúkdómalæknir).
It’s good to keep in mind that not all doctors are sufficiently familiar with endometriosis. Stand your ground and seek advice from others if you feel it’s necessary.
It’s not normal to have very painful periods!
How can we help?
The Endometriosis Association is a rights and advocacy organization for individuals with endo, regardless of whether they have a formal diagnosis or not. The main goal of the association is to provide support and education for people with endometriosis and their relatives and to promote a strong community based on understanding and solidarity. The Endometriosis Association emphasizes educating its members, the general public, healthcare professionals, and health authorities about the disease and advocates for improved services for people with endometriosis.
The association hosts various educational events throughout the year. Members of the association receive free or discounted admission to most events. The association also offers open consultation hours, personal advice and support, as well as support groups.
Can I be a member?
The Endometriosis Association is for individuals of all genders and does not require a confirmed diagnosis to become a member. You can, for example, join the association if you:
– Have a confirmed diagnosis of endometriosis or are in the diagnostic process,
– Experience symptoms of the disease and suspect you have endo,
– Are a relative of someone with endo,
– Have a child showing symptoms of the disease and want to learn about it.