Endometriosis Pain: When to See a Doctor for Painful Periods
Painful periods are common, but when menstrual pain becomes severe and affects daily life, it could be a sign of a condition like endometriosis. At Cobb Women’s Health, our board-certified gynecologists, Dr. Nandita Mainthia, MD, FACOG, and Dr. Hitendra Hansalia, MD, FACOG, are dedicated to providing comprehensive care and treatment options for endometriosis pain, including diagnostic evaluations and personalized treatment plans. For more information, contact us today or request an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 1810 Mulkey Rd SW, Suite 102, Austell, GA 30106.


Table of Contents:
How do I know if my period pain is due to endometriosis?
Can endometriosis cause pain outside of my period?
How severe should period pain be before seeing a doctor for endometriosis?
Are there any other symptoms of endometriosis besides painful periods?
What should I expect during a doctor’s visit for painful periods?
If you experience severe period pain that significantly impacts your daily activities, it could be a sign of endometriosis. Women with this condition often report pain that starts before or during their periods and continues throughout the menstrual cycle. This pain is typically more intense than normal period cramps and may feel sharp or stabbing. Endometriosis pain may also occur during or after sexual intercourse, during bowel movements, or while urinating, especially during menstruation.
Other symptoms of endometriosis include heavy menstrual bleeding and fatigue. If you notice these symptoms or if your period pain worsens over time, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider. They can assess your symptoms and suggest suitable treatment alternatives.
At Cobb Women’s Health, we understand that conditions like endometriosis can significantly impact your quality of life and overall well-being. Early detection and personalized medical management at Cobb Women’s Health can greatly enhance your comfort, improve your overall health, and address any concerns related to fertility. Our goal is to support and empower you throughout every stage of your health journey.
We understand that endometriosis goes beyond typical menstrual discomfort. Endometriosis is characterized by the growth of tissue similar to the uterine lining (the endometrium) outside the uterus. This tissue is located on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and various other organs in the pelvic cavity. This tissue undergoes thickening, breakdown, and bleeding every month, similar to the uterine lining. However, since it is situated outside the uterus, the blood cannot leave the body, resulting in inflammation, pain, and scar tissue development.
The most common symptom of endometriosis is pelvic pain, often associated with menstruation, but it can also occur at other times during the month. Other symptoms include heavy periods, pain during intercourse, infertility, and gastrointestinal issues such as bloating or constipation.
If you are experiencing ongoing pelvic pain or related symptoms outside your menstrual period, our compassionate team at Cobb Women’s Health is here to help. Dr. Nandita Mainthia, MD, FACOG, and Dr. Hitendra Hansalia, MD, FACOG, can evaluate your condition and offer personalized treatment plans designed to ease your symptoms and enhance your overall quality of life.
We understand that menstrual pain affects each woman differently. Period pain, also known as dysmenorrhea, can range from mild to severe. While it’s common for women to experience some discomfort during their menstrual cycle, period pain that is persistent, severe, or debilitating should not be ignored. If pain significantly impacts your daily activities, prevents you from working or attending school, or is accompanied by symptoms like nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, it may be a sign of a more serious condition like endometriosis.
If you have heavy bleeding, long-lasting periods, or pain that worsens over time, it’s crucial to see a doctor for evaluation. Endometriosis can cause chronic pain and infertility, and early diagnosis and treatment can help manage symptoms and prevent long-term complications. Consulting with a healthcare professional can ensure proper diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan to help alleviate the pain and improve your quality of life.
Our experienced healthcare providers at Cobb Women’s Health offer comprehensive evaluations when needed. We believe in personalized care, partnering with you to develop tailored treatment plans and management strategies that meet your unique health needs. We’re committed to helping you achieve wellness at every stage of life.
At Cobb Women’s Health, we understand that endometriosis is more than just painful periods—it’s a multifaceted condition that can have a major impact on your everyday life, social connections, and general health. Our compassionate providers are committed to helping you recognize and manage the full range of symptoms associated with endometriosis. Endometriosis can cause several symptoms beyond painful periods, including:
• Chronic pelvic pain
• Pain during or after sex
• Discomfort during bowel movements or urination (especially during menstruation)
• Heavy menstrual bleeding or spotting between periods
• Fatigue
• Bloating
• Nausea
• Infertility (in some cases)
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms or suspect you may have endometriosis, the experienced providers at Cobb Women’s Health are here to listen, provide an accurate diagnosis, and offer effective treatment options tailored specifically to you. Your health and quality of life are our priority, and we are here for you every step of the way.
We understand how significantly painful periods can impact your daily life. During a doctor’s visit for painful periods, you can expect to discuss your symptoms in detail, including the severity, duration, and any other related concerns, such as heavy bleeding or fatigue. The doctor will ask about your medical history, including menstrual cycles, past treatments, and any other health conditions that might be affecting your periods. This will help them determine the best course of action for your treatment.
The doctor may perform a physical exam and, in some cases, may suggest tests to rule out conditions like endometriosis, fibroids, or hormonal imbalances. Based on the findings, they will recommend a personalized treatment plan, which could include pain relief options, hormonal therapy, or lifestyle changes to help manage the symptoms.
At Cobb Women’s Health, communication is central to our approach. We encourage you to openly share your concerns, ask questions, and participate actively in your care. Our dedicated providers are committed to offering personalized, compassionate care to help you effectively manage your symptoms and significantly improve your quality of life. For more information, contact us today or request an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 1810 Mulkey Rd SW, Suite 102, Austell, GA 30106. We serve patients from Austell GA, Lithia Springs GA, Mableton GA, Powder Springs GA, Fair Oaks GA, Hiram GA, Clarkdale GA, Smyrna GA, Marietta GA and surrounding areas.

Additional Services You May Need