Heavy Periods: Could It Be Endometriosis?

Heavy periods can completely disrupt your life. Do you plan your schedule around your menstrual cycle or cancel plans due to debilitating cramps? While many women experience discomfort during their periods, extreme pain and exceptionally heavy bleeding aren’t normal. 

These symptoms could be signs of endometriosis, a condition affecting up to 10% of women of reproductive age.

At Modern Gynecology & Reproductive Health in Memphis, Tennessee, Susan Lacy, MD, FACOG, and our team specialize in diagnosing and treating endometriosis. As we recognize Endometriosis Awareness Month, we want to shed light on this often-overlooked condition that impacts millions of women.

Spot the warning signs of endometriosis

Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to your uterine lining grows outside the uterus. This misplaced tissue continues to act like it would when inside your uterus — thickening, breaking down, and bleeding with each menstrual cycle. Unlike normal menstrual blood that exits your body, this blood has nowhere to go, causing inflammation, pain, and scar tissue.

Common symptoms include:

• Extremely heavy periods (needing to change protection every hour)
• Periods lasting longer than seven days
• Severe pelvic pain before and during periods
• Pain during or after sex
• Painful bowel movements during your period
• Pain with urination during periods
• Fatigue that worsens around your period
• Infertility or difficulty getting pregnant
• Lower back pain that worsens during menstruation
• Digestive issues like bloating, nausea, or constipation

Many women dismiss these symptoms as "just bad periods," but living with extreme pain isn’t something you should accept.

An accurate diagnosis reveals what’s really happening

Diagnosing endometriosis can be challenging because symptoms often overlap with other conditions. Many women suffer for years before receiving a proper diagnosis. 

The only definitive way to diagnose endometriosis is through laparoscopy, a minimally invasive surgical procedure that looks inside your abdomen for endometrial tissue. However, Dr. Lacy begins with a thorough medical history and pelvic exam. 

She may recommend ultrasound imaging to identify cysts or other abnormalities that could indicate endometriosis. Dr. Lacy then creates a personalized treatment plan based on your symptoms and examination results.

Find endometriosis relief with customized treatment options

While there’s no cure for endometriosis, several treatments can effectively manage symptoms and improve your quality of life. Your treatment plan may include:

Hormone therapy

Birth control pills, patches, or hormonal intrauterine devices (IUDs) can reduce pain and bleeding by controlling hormone levels that fuel endometriosis growth.

Pain management

Over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers or prescription medications can help manage discomfort during flare-ups.

Minimally invasive surgery

For severe cases, laparoscopic surgery — minimally invasive surgery through small incisions in your abdomen — can remove endometrial tissue while preserving your reproductive organs.

Lifestyle modifications

Certain dietary changes, regular exercise, and stress-reduction techniques can complement medical treatments and provide additional relief.

Dr. Lacy works closely with you to find the right approach based on your symptoms, reproductive goals, and overall health. With proper treatment, you can regain control of your life and reduce the impact of painful periods.

Don't suffer through painful, heavy periods any longer

You deserve to live without debilitating pain each month. If heavy periods are controlling your life, schedule a consultation with Dr. Lacy and our team at Modern Gynecology & Reproductive Health. 

Our compassionate team provides the support and advanced care you need to manage endometriosis effectively.

Contact our office today or book an appointment online to enjoy life with manageable periods.