Let’s Talk About Endometriosis: Because Being in Pain Every Month Isn’t Normal
For many women, monthly periods are more than an inconvenience, they’re a source of crippling pain. “Patients often describe days when going to work or school simply isn’t possible,” says Dr Kelly Hankins, a Central Coast gynaecologist with more than 15 years’ experience in women’s health. “Endometriosis can impact relationships, fertility, and everyday life in ways that are invisible to others.”
Despite affecting millions of women worldwide, endometriosis is still under-recognised. Diagnosis can take years, with many women told their pain is “normal.” But awareness is changing, and so too are the options for diagnosis and treatment.
Spotting the Symptoms
Endometriosis doesn’t look the same for everyone. Some women experience subtle discomfort; others live with life-altering pain.
- Pelvic pain that worsens during menstruation
- Heavy, irregular periods
- Pain during sex, urination, or bowel movements
- Ongoing fatigue
- Fertility challenges
The frustrating reality is that the severity of symptoms doesn’t always match the extent of the disease. Some women with mild disease experience agonising pain; others with advanced endometriosis may barely notice symptoms.
Why Diagnosis Takes So Long
One of the biggest challenges in endometriosis care is simply naming the condition. “Patients often ask, ‘Why did it take so many years to get an answer?’” says Dr Hankins. “The truth is that symptoms mimic other gynaecological or bowel conditions, so careful investigation is essential.”
Diagnosis usually begins with a thorough medical history and physical examination. Ultrasound scans can reveal ovarian cysts linked to endometriosis, while MRI scans may be ordered in complex cases. But the most reliable method remains laparoscopy, a minimally invasive surgical procedure that allows doctors to see and, if needed, treat the endometrial tissue directly.
Treatment: From Lifestyle Tweaks to Surgery
There’s no “one-size-fits-all” solution to endometriosis. Management depends on severity, symptoms, and life goals, particularly around fertility.
- Medications such as hormonal therapies or pain relief can reduce symptoms.
- Lifestyle changes include diet adjustments, exercise, and stress management, and can help some women regain balance.
- Surgery offers targeted treatment. Laparoscopic surgery can remove endometrial tissue while protecting fertility, and in severe cases, a hysterectomy may be discussed.
Did You Know?
Laparoscopic surgery is often referred to as “keyhole surgery.” It uses tiny incisions and cameras to treat endometriosis with far less disruption to surrounding tissue.
Endometriosis and Fertility
Endometriosis is strongly linked with infertility, and estimates suggest up to half of women with the condition will struggle to conceive. Scar tissue and adhesions can disrupt the delicate pathway between ovaries and fallopian tubes.
“Fertility discussions need to be part of the treatment plan from the very beginning,” explains Dr Hankins. “Sometimes surgery helps, other times assisted reproductive technologies are required. The key is tailoring treatment to the woman’s goals.”
A Specialist’s Perspective
Dr Kelly Hankins brings both international training and local expertise to her work on the Central Coast. She has treated women with endometriosis in Sydney, Nepal, and now in her current practice, where she combines compassion with evidence-based care. As a RANZCOG supervisor, she also mentors the next generation of specialists in gynaecology.
“Living with endometriosis can feel isolating,” she says. “But women should know they’re not alone, and there are treatments available that can dramatically improve quality of life.”
Endometriosis is complex, but with growing awareness, improved diagnostic tools, and more treatment options, women have more hope than ever before. Whether it’s controlling pain, preserving fertility, or simply reclaiming everyday comfort, expert guidance makes all the difference.
If you’re struggling with symptoms of endometriosis, consider booking an appointment with Dr Kelly Hankins for an informed, personalised approach to your care.