According to the World Health Organization (WHO), endometriosis affects about 10% of women of reproductive age worldwide, or about 190 million. The most common symptoms are very painful periods, heavy bleeding, chronic pelvic pain and bloating, and sometimes infertility: among women with infertility, endometriosis is found in 25–50%.
Why it matters for the brain
The WHO stresses that endometriosis can also affect mental health, including depression and anxiety. Chronic pain is exhausting and disrupts sleep and work. On average it takes 4–12 years to reach a diagnosis, and there is no cure yet: treatment aims to control symptoms.
What this means for you
- Very painful periods are not “normal” if they get in the way of your life.
- Write down the days and intensity of your pain: it will help your doctor.
- If you feel unheard, don’t hesitate to see another specialist.
Sources
- World Health Organization (2025). Endometriosis: fact sheet. who.int