Endometriosis affects millions of people worldwide, yet misconceptions about the condition continue to spread misinformation. These myths often lead to delayed diagnosis, inadequate treatment, and unnecessary suffering. In this article, we debunk ten of the most common myths about endometriosis, providing evidence-based insights to help those affected and raise awareness about this complex disease.
Endometriosis Myths : 1. It is Just a Bad Period
Reality: Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory disease, not just severe menstrual cramps. While painful periods (dysmenorrhea) are a common symptom, endometriosis can cause pain at any time of the month, including during ovulation, sex (dyspareunia), and even bowel movements.
Endometriosis Myths : 2. Pregnancy Cures Endometriosis
Reality: While some women experience temporary symptom relief during pregnancy due to hormonal changes, endometriosis is not “cured” by pregnancy. For many, symptoms return postpartum, sometimes even worse than before.
Endometriosis Myths : 3. If You Have Endometriosis, You Will Be Infertile
Reality: While endometriosis can impact fertility, not all women with the condition are infertile. Many women with endometriosis conceive naturally or with assisted reproductive technologies like in vitro fertilization (IVF). Early diagnosis and treatment can improve fertility outcomes.
Endometriosis Myths : 4. Endometriosis Always Shows Up on Ultrasounds
Reality: Standard pelvic ultrasounds often fail to detect endometriosis unless large ovarian cysts (endometriomas) are present. A more detailed imaging technique, such as an MRI or an expert transvaginal ultrasound, is often required for accurate detection.
Endometriosis Myths : 5. Menopause Eliminates Endometriosis
Reality: While menopause typically leads to a decrease in estrogen levels, which can suppress endometriosis growth, the disease does not always disappear. Some women continue to experience symptoms due to residual lesions, hormone therapy, or the presence of deep infiltrating endometriosis.
Endometriosis Myths : 6. Endometriosis Only Affects the Reproductive Organs
Reality: Endometriosis is a systemic disease that can affect multiple organs outside the reproductive system. It has been found in the bowel, bladder, lungs (thoracic endometriosis), and even the brain in rare cases.
Endometriosis Myths : 7. Endometriosis is Rare
Reality: Endometriosis affects an estimated 10% of women and individuals assigned female at birth worldwide, equating to roughly 190 million people. Despite its prevalence, awareness and research funding remain disproportionately low.
Endometriosis Myths : 8. Endometriosis Only Affects Older Women
Reality: Endometriosis can start as early as a girl’s first period (menarche) and affects adolescents as well as adults. Many women report symptoms in their teenage years, but diagnosis is often delayed due to misinformation about “normal” period pain.
Endometriosis Myths : 9. Birth Control Pills Cure Endometriosis
Reality: Hormonal treatments, including birth control pills, can help manage symptoms but do not cure endometriosis. These treatments work by suppressing ovulation and reducing inflammation but do not eliminate endometriotic lesions.
Endometriosis Myths : 10. Surgery is a Permanent Cure for Endometriosis
Reality: Laparoscopic surgery to remove endometriosis lesions can provide significant relief, but recurrence rates can be as high as 50% within five years, especially if all lesions are not completely excised. A multidisciplinary approach, including lifestyle modifications and medical therapy, is often needed for long-term management.
Conclusion
Endometriosis remains one of the most misunderstood medical conditions, contributing to delays in diagnosis and inadequate care. Dispelling these myths helps empower individuals with accurate information, leading to better advocacy, earlier intervention, and improved treatment options. If you suspect you have endometriosis, consult a specialist for proper evaluation and management.
References
- Cano‑Herrera, G. et al. Endometriosis: A Comprehensive Analysis of the Pathophysiology, Treatment, and Nutritional Aspects, and Its Repercussions on the Quality of Life of Patients — Biomedicines (2024)
- Coxon, L. et al. Current Developments in Endometriosis‑Associated Pain — Cell Reports Medicine (2024)
- Latif, S. et al. Endometriosis and In Vitro Fertilization — Medicina (2024)
- Tsuei, A. et al. Comprehensive Management of Bowel Endometriosis — J. Clin. Med. (2025)
- Dinu, M.‑D. et al. Endometriosis in Menopausal Women—A New Age Is Coming? — Life (2024)
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