Experts warn endometriosis is often mistaken for IBS in women

Many women who suffer from endometriosis are often wrongly diagnosed with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) because both conditions share several similar symptoms. Doctors say symptoms such as bloating, constipation, diarrhoea, nausea and stomach pain can sometimes hide a more serious gynaecological condition instead of a digestive disorder.

Health experts are now urging women to pay closer attention to symptoms that become worse around the menstrual cycle because these may be signs of endometriosis rather than common stomach problems.

According to Professor Sangeetha K from the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Srinivas Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Centre, many women spend years being treated for digestive issues before they receive the correct diagnosis.

Endometriosis happens when tissue similar to the lining inside the uterus starts growing outside the uterus. This tissue can grow on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, pelvis, bladder or even near the intestines. The condition causes inflammation, pain and scar tissue formation inside the body.

Doctors explain that because endometriosis can affect the pelvic region and intestines, it may create symptoms that look very similar to IBS. This overlap often leads to confusion and delays in proper treatment.

IBS is a common digestive disorder that affects the stomach and intestines. People with IBS usually experience bloating, stomach cramps, constipation, diarrhoea and irregular bowel habits. However, unlike endometriosis, IBS is not linked to the menstrual cycle.

Experts say one of the most important clues is the timing of symptoms. If stomach problems regularly become worse before or during periods, doctors believe endometriosis should also be considered.

One common symptom is chronic bloating. Many women experience occasional bloating due to food, stress or digestion problems. But in endometriosis, bloating can become severe and may happen repeatedly every month around menstruation.

Some women even describe this condition as “endo belly” because the abdomen can become unusually swollen and painful. Doctors say this type of bloating is often caused by inflammation linked to hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle.

Another symptom that can create confusion is alternating diarrhoea and constipation. In IBS, bowel habits may change without any clear pattern. But in endometriosis, these symptoms are often linked to the menstrual cycle.

Doctors explain that endometriosis lesions near the intestines can irritate or press against the bowel. This can affect digestion and bowel movements, especially during periods.

Pain during bowel movements is another important warning sign. Many people assume such pain is caused by constipation or digestive irritation. However, severe pain during defecation, especially during menstruation, may point towards endometriosis affecting the pelvic area or bowel.

Women may also experience nausea and vomiting. These symptoms are commonly associated with stomach infections or digestive issues, but doctors say repeated nausea during the menstrual cycle should not be ignored.

Experts explain that hormonal changes and pelvic inflammation can sometimes trigger nausea and vomiting in women with endometriosis.

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Symptoms often follow a menstrual pattern

Doctors say one major difference between IBS and endometriosis is the relationship with periods. IBS symptoms may appear randomly or after eating certain foods, while endometriosis symptoms often follow a monthly cycle.

For example, bloating, bowel pain, diarrhoea or nausea may become much worse a few days before menstruation and continue during the period. Some women also experience extreme tiredness, pelvic pain and heavy menstrual bleeding at the same time.

Experts say many women ignore these signs because they believe painful periods are normal. In some cases, they are repeatedly treated for digestive problems without further investigation into possible reproductive health conditions.

This delay in diagnosis can affect both physical and mental health. Endometriosis can become more severe over time and may lead to chronic pain, fertility problems and emotional stress if not treated properly.

Doctors say awareness is important because many women do not realise that stomach-related symptoms can sometimes be linked to a gynaecological disorder.

According to health experts, women should seek medical advice if they notice recurring digestive symptoms that clearly follow their menstrual cycle. Keeping track of symptoms through a diary or mobile app may help doctors identify patterns more easily.

Early diagnosis can improve treatment

Medical experts say early diagnosis of endometriosis can greatly improve treatment and quality of life. Unfortunately, many women live with symptoms for years before receiving the correct diagnosis.

Diagnosis usually involves discussing symptoms, reviewing medical history and conducting pelvic examinations. In some cases, scans such as ultrasounds or MRI tests may be needed. Doctors may also perform laparoscopy, a small surgical procedure used to confirm endometriosis.

Treatment depends on the severity of symptoms. Some women manage the condition with pain relief medicines, hormonal treatment or lifestyle changes. In more serious cases, surgery may be required to remove endometriosis tissue.

Doctors also encourage women not to ignore severe menstrual pain. While mild discomfort during periods is common, intense pain that affects daily life should always be checked by a medical professional.

Experts estimate that around 42 million women in India may be affected by endometriosis. However, many cases remain undiagnosed because symptoms are often mistaken for other conditions such as IBS.

Health professionals say increasing awareness can help women recognise warning signs earlier and seek timely medical care. They also stress the need for open conversations about menstrual health, which is still considered a sensitive topic in many families and communities.

Doctors believe women should trust their bodies and not ignore recurring symptoms simply because they are related to periods. Persistent bloating, bowel changes, severe pain or nausea during menstruation may not just be normal menstrual discomfort.

Experts say recognising these symptoms early can help women receive proper treatment, reduce long-term complications and improve overall health and well-being.