What Your Period Tells Us About Endometriosis

If your period hurts a lot, feels unpredictable, or makes school and life harder, this is for you.

A research study looked at common patterns in people with endometriosis and found that many signs start during the teen years.

Animated teen girl with menstrual cramps, hugging a hot water bottle.

Starting Your Period Young Can Matter

Teens who got their first period earlier (around age 12 or younger) were more likely to have endometriosis later.

That doesn’t mean anything is “wrong” with you — it just helps explain why some people start having symptoms early.

Bad Period Pain Is NOT Normal

Yes, cramps happen. But this kind of pain is not normal:

• Missing school because of your period

• Needing strong pain meds just to function

• Pain that gets worse every year

• Pain that doesn’t improve with birth control or heat

If this sounds like you, your pain deserves attention.

Weird Periods Are a Clue Too

Teens with endometriosis often have periods that are:

• Super heavy

• Very long

• Irregular

• Very close together

Periods shouldn’t feel like chaos every month.

Pain With Tampons or Sex Is Not “Just You”

Some teens and young adults with endometriosis experience:

• Pain inserting tampons

• Pain with penetration

• Pelvic or lower back pain

This is real physical pain, not anxiety or stress.

Stomach & Bathroom Issues Can Be Related

Endometriosis doesn’t just affect periods. It can also cause:

• Constipation or diarrhea

• Bloating

• Pain when using the bathroom

If your symptoms change with your cycle, that’s important info.

Trust Yourself

If something feels off, you’re probably right.

You are not:

• Being dramatic

• Weak

• Complaining too much

Listening to your body is smart.

What You Can Do Right Now

• Track your symptoms (pain, bleeding, bathroom issues)

• Talk to a trusted adult

• Ask to see a doctor who understands pelvic pain

• Don’t stop asking questions if you’re being dismissed

If you’re a parent reading this, please believe your teen.