Medical experts in Brazil are warning that severe menstrual cramps that disrupt daily routines may be a sign of endometriosis [1].
This alert is critical because debilitating pain is often normalized, leading to delayed diagnoses of a condition that can affect fertility and overall quality of life.
During a broadcast on CNN Brasil this Saturday, gynecologists Gabriela Rebelo and Sérgio Conti Ribeiro said the symptoms and treatment options for the condition [1]. Both experts are affiliated with the Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo (HC-FMUSP) [1].
Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterine cavity [1, 2]. This growth can cause significant pain and inflammation, which the doctors said is often mistaken for standard menstrual discomfort [1].
The experts said that while some cramping is common, pain that prevents a person from performing normal activities is not a standard part of the menstrual cycle [1]. Early detection is essential to managing the disease and preventing further complications [1].
The discussion also highlighted the visibility of the condition through public figures. For example, actress Larissa Manoela underwent surgery to treat endometriosis at 25 years old [3]. Such cases illustrate that the condition can affect young women and requires surgical or medical intervention to manage [3].
Diagnosis and treatment typically involve a combination of medication and, in some cases, surgical procedures to remove the endometrial-like tissue [1]. The doctors said women experiencing severe symptoms should seek specialized gynecological care to ensure an accurate diagnosis [1].
“Debilitating menstrual cramps are not normal and may be a sign of endometriosis.”
The push to destigmatize and medicalize severe menstrual pain reflects a broader global effort to reduce the diagnostic gap for endometriosis. By challenging the cultural narrative that extreme period pain is 'normal,' healthcare providers aim to increase early intervention rates, which is vital for preserving fertility and reducing chronic pelvic pain.
