How is endometriosis different in teenagers?

Endometriosis is tissue resembling the uterine lining growing outside the uterus. In a teenager, pain may begin soon after periods start and can be severe enough to interrupt classes, sleep, sport, or friendships. Pain may occur before or during bleeding, with bowel movements, or with urination. Nausea, bloating, fatigue, and pain between periods can also occur.

A young person may not describe symptoms in gynaecological terms, and normal-looking scans do not always exclude endometriosis. The pattern, impact, family history, examination, and response to treatment help guide assessment. Persistent pain deserves attention even when bleeding appears typical.

Keep a simple record of cycle dates, pain location, severity, bowel or bladder symptoms, missed activities, medicines tried, and side effects. A parent, guardian, school nurse, or trusted adult can help a teenager attend appointments and explain the effect on daily life. Treatment may include pain relief, hormonal medicines, physical support, and specialist review; the choice depends on age, symptoms, goals, and health history.

Read the Endometriosis guide to understand the condition and possible evaluation.

Arrange medical review when period pain repeatedly causes missed school or activities, does not improve with an agreed treatment plan, or is accompanied by ongoing bowel or bladder pain. Seek urgent care for sudden severe pelvic pain, fainting, persistent vomiting, fever, or heavy bleeding with weakness. A symptom diary can help clinicians judge whether the pattern needs specialist assessment.

Ask what other causes of pelvic pain should be considered, which pain plan is safe, and when to return if symptoms continue. Discuss how treatment may affect periods, mood, school, sport, and fertility, and whether referral to a clinician experienced with adolescents is appropriate.