Endometriosis is a common yet often misunderstood medical condition affecting millions of people around the world, yet it remains widely underdiagnosed and under-discussed. At Endometriosis Canada, we believe that awareness is the first step toward advocacy, better care, and ultimately, a cure.

Here are some essential facts about endometriosis that everyone should know:

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What Is Endometriosis?

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Endometriosis is a chronic and often painful condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus (called the endometrium) grows outside the uterus. This tissue can be found on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, outer surface of the uterus, and even in areas like the bladder or intestines.

Unlike menstrual blood, this tissue has no way to exit the body, which can cause inflammation, scarring, and painful adhesions.

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Who Does It Affect?

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• Endometriosis affects 1 in 10 people assigned female at birth, predominantly during their reproductive years, that’s approximately 190 million people globally.

• Despite its prevalence, it often takes 7 to 10 years to receive a proper diagnosis, partly due to lack of awareness and the normalization of menstrual pain.​​

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Common Symptoms

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Symptoms of endometriosis can vary widely and may include:

• Chronic pelvic pain

• Painful periods (dysmenorrhea)

• Pain during or after sex

• Infertility or difficulty conceiving

• Gastrointestinal symptoms such as bloating, constipation, or diarrhea (especially during menstruation)

Not everyone experiences the same symptoms, and the severity of symptoms doesn’t always correlate with the extent of the disease.

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The Impact of Endometriosis

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Endometriosis affects more than just physical health:

• It's a leading cause of infertility, with 30–50% of those with the condition facing fertility challenges.

• It can severely impact mental health, relationships, careers, and overall quality of life.

• The pain and unpredictability of symptoms can lead to frequent absences from work or school and social withdrawal.

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Why Awareness Matters

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Despite being so widespread, endometriosis is significantly underfunded and under-researched compared to other chronic illnesses. For decades, individuals with endometriosis have had their pain dismissed or misdiagnosed as “normal period pain.”​  That needs to change.  At Endometriosis Canada, we are committed to increasing awareness, supporting early diagnosis, advocating for research funding, and fighting for better care for those living with this condition.

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