7 Myths About Endometriosis You Need to Stop Believing

March marks Endometriosis Awareness Month a time to spotlight a chronic and often misunderstood condition that affects approximately 190 million women globally. Endometriosis occurs when endometrial-like tissue grows outside the uterus, causing symptoms such as severe pelvic pain, fatigue, bowel and bladder issues, and infertility.

Despite its prevalence, many people wait years for a diagnosis an average of 10, sometimes longer and face a healthcare system that often dismisses or downplays their pain. That widespread delay, coupled with online misinformation and outdated medical assumptions, can leave patients confused, frustrated, and underserved.

Here are seven of the most common myths about endometriosis and what you need to know instead.

Myth 1: Endometriosis isn’t hereditary

Truth: It absolutely is. According to Iris Kerin Orbuch, MD, a leading endometriosis specialist, having a biological relative with endometriosis on either side of your family increases your risk dramatically. “If your mother, aunt, or sister has endometriosis, your likelihood may be as high as 70 to 100 percent,” she says.

So if your symptoms mirror those of a parent or close relative, bring it up with your doctor. It’s not just a coincidence it could be a vital clue.

Myth 2: It only causes pain during your period

Truth: Endometriosis is not just a “bad period.” Lesions can grow on multiple organs, including the bladder, bowels, and even the diaphragm causing chronic, often daily pain.

“Endo pain can occur before, during, or after your period and sometimes, every single day,” explains Amanda Chu, MD, a board-certified gynecologic surgeon. Symptoms can include GI issues, lower back pain, fatigue, and pain during sex.

If pain is interfering with your life at any time in your cycle, that’s reason enough to seek answers.

Myth 3: It only affects older women

Truth: Endometriosis can begin well before puberty and persist after menopause. Some research has even found endometrial lesions in fetal tissue, suggesting the condition may begin during embryonic development.

Bottom line: Endometriosis can affect people of all ages and young age should never be a reason to dismiss symptoms.

Myth 4: Birth control is the best treatment

Truth: Hormonal birth control may help manage certain symptoms, like heavy bleeding or painful periods, but it doesn’t treat the disease itself. “Birth control is not a cure,” says Dr. Kerin Orbuch. “It’s a bandaid.”

Treatment must be tailored to the individual what one person finds helpful might make another’s symptoms worse. That’s why Dr. Orbuch coined the term “endovidual” to describe how highly personalized endometriosis care needs to be.

Myth 5: Surgery should be a last resort

Truth: Laparoscopic surgery is currently the gold standard for diagnosing and removing endometriosis, especially when imaging tests are inconclusive.

While it’s important to rule out other conditions and explore non-invasive therapies, delaying surgery for too long may allow the disease and related complications like pelvic floor dysfunction or bladder issues to worsen, says Dr. Chu.

That said, a holistic approach post-surgery is crucial, often involving physical therapy, dietary changes, or gut and bladder support.

Myth 6: Endometriosis isn’t connected to bladder issues

Truth: Bladder pain or urgency can absolutely be linked to endo. Up to 92 percent of people with endometriosis also experience interstitial cystitis (IC), a chronic bladder condition that causes pelvic pain and urinary discomfort.

“It’s often overlooked,” says Dr. Kerin Orbuch, “but IC is so common among endo patients that we call it its ‘evil twin.’” Endometriosis lesions can also grow directly on the bladder, compounding symptoms and complicating diagnosis.

Myth 7: Pain is just part of being a woman

Truth: Severe, ongoing pain that disrupts your daily life is never normal. Studies show that endometriosis ranks among the top 20 most painful medical conditions, and more than one-quarter of people with endo miss work or school because of their symptoms.

If you feel dismissed or gaslit by a provider, it’s okay and often necessary to seek a second opinion. “Your pain is real,” says Dr. Kerin Orbuch. “And you deserve to be believed.”

How to Be Your Best Advocate

Getting the care you deserve for endometriosis often means fighting to be heard. Here's how to start:

• Trust your instincts: If something feels wrong, it probably is.

• Vet your provider: Search for “excision” in their credentials this indicates they perform endometriosis-specific surgery.

• Keep a pain journal: Documenting symptoms can help connect the dots for providers.

• Ask specific questions: Prepare for your appointment with a list of concerns and treatment goals.

• Build a team: Your care may include gynecologists, surgeons, urologists, gastroenterologists, physical therapists, and dietitians.

• Find support: Whether it’s a trusted friend, therapist, or online group, you don’t have to navigate this alone.

The Bottom Line

Endometriosis is a complex, lifelong condition that deserves attention, understanding, and expert care. Dispelling these myths is a crucial step toward empowering patients and shifting the narrative away from dismissal and delay toward timely, compassionate support.

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