When Period Pain Isn’t Just “Normal”
For years, Ngozi believed her excruciating cramps were something every woman went through. Her periods were so painful she had to miss work, lie curled up with a heating pad, or rely on strong painkillers just to function. Doctors dismissed it as “just bad cramps.” But deep down, she knew something wasn’t right.
It wasn’t until her 30s, after years of painful sex, infertility struggles, and unbearable fatigue, that Ngozi was diagnosed with endometriosis, a condition that affects 1 in 10 women of reproductive age. And like many women, her journey to diagnosis took nearly a decade.
At Chiron Hospital, we’re changing that narrative.
What is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a chronic condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus, often on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or other organs in the pelvic area. Every month, this tissue thickens, breaks down, and bleeds, just like the lining inside the uterus. But because it has nowhere to go, it causes inflammation, pain, and sometimes scar tissue (adhesions).
The result? Periods that are not just uncomfortable but debilitating.
Why Is It So Often Misunderstood?
Because many women are taught to normalize pain during menstruation, they may never report symptoms. Worse still, some healthcare providers still dismiss or underestimate how serious it can be. It’s not uncommon for women to be told it’s “in their head” or “just part of being a woman.”
At Chiron, we take women’s pain seriously. And we believe your lived experience matters.
Recognizing the Symptoms
The signs of endometriosis vary widely. Some women have mild symptoms; others are incapacitated by them. Common symptoms include:
- Severe menstrual cramps that get worse over time
- Pain during or after sex
- Pain with bowel movements or urination, especially during your period
- Heavy bleeding or bleeding between periods
- Difficulty getting pregnant
- Chronic pelvic pain or fatigue
These symptoms can overlap with other conditions like fibroids or pelvic inflammatory disease, so accurate diagnosis is key.
How Is Endometriosis Diagnosed?
There is no simple blood test for endometriosis. Diagnosis may involve:
- Pelvic exams
- Ultrasound or MRI to detect larger growths or cysts
- Laparoscopy: a minimally invasive surgery used to confirm and treat endometriosis
Chiron Hospital offers expert gynecologic care and access to diagnostic imaging and laparoscopy when needed. Our goal is to provide answers quickly and compassionately.
Can It Be Treated?
Endometriosis is a chronic condition, but there are many treatment options available:
- Pain Management: Anti-inflammatory medications or hormonal therapy can relieve symptoms.
- Hormonal Treatments: These help reduce or stop menstruation, which can slow the growth of endometrial tissue.
- Surgical Options: Laparoscopy to remove endometriosis implants and scar tissue.
- Fertility Treatments: For women struggling to conceive, our fertility specialists offer support and solutions.
At Chiron, we take a multidisciplinary approach, working with gynecologists, pain specialists, and mental health professionals to support every woman holistically.
Living With Endometriosis
Living with endometriosis doesn’t just affect your body, it affects your relationships, work, self-esteem, and mental health. Many women report feeling isolated, unheard, and even gaslighted in their care journey.
You’re not alone.
We offer counseling, nutritional support (as diet may impact symptoms), and support groups to help women manage the emotional toll of endometriosis.
Our Commitment to Women’s Health
At Chiron Hospital, we’re committed to redefining women’s healthcare in Nigeria. We provide judgment-free, science-based, compassionate care and we’re passionate about listening to you. Whether you’re dealing with painful periods, unexplained infertility, or chronic pelvic pain, our team is here to investigate, explain, and walk the journey with you.
When Should You See a Doctor?
If your period pain is disrupting your life, if you’re struggling to conceive, or if you just feel something isn’t right, don’t wait. Early intervention makes a world of difference, especially with conditions like endometriosis.
📞 Call us today to book a consultation: +234 909 000 1078
📧 Email: admin@chironhospital.org
🌐 www.chironhospital.org
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