Endometriosis: 5 common myths, explained by an osteopath
This information is general and does not replace medical advice.
I asked you a few questions about endometriosis on Instagram, and here are the answers. There is a lot of talk about this condition, so here is a short true/false quiz to go back over some common myths, with brief explanations.
The aim: to understand endometriosis better, to recognise its symptoms more easily, and to remind everyone that care should be tailored to each patient.
“Severe period pain is normal if it has been there since adolescence”
- False 92%
- True 8%
Instagram poll
False!
Intense or disabling period pain should not be dismissed, even if it has been there since the very first periods. It can point to endometriosis, although it is not specific to this condition. A medical assessment is recommended when it affects your quality of life.
“Osteopathy can, in some cases, cure endometriosis”
- False 69%
- True 31%
Instagram poll
False!
To date, there is no treatment that can permanently cure endometriosis. Osteopathy can have a place in supporting patients, through work adapted to musculoskeletal tension, mobility and related pain. It can help improve everyday comfort and quality of life, alongside medical follow-up.
“Most women with endometriosis have fertility problems”
- False 39%
- True 61%
Instagram poll
False!
Endometriosis can affect fertility, but it does not necessarily mean having difficulty conceiving. It is estimated that around 60 to 70% of women with endometriosis can become pregnant spontaneously.
“A pregnancy can make endometriosis disappear”
- False 67%
- True 33%
Instagram poll
False!
Some women notice their symptoms improve during pregnancy, but this is not guaranteed. A pregnancy does not cure endometriosis and does not guarantee that the pain will go away. Symptoms can come back after the birth.
“A woman with endometriosis can have a normal imaging result”
- False 7%
- True 93%
Instagram poll
True!
A normal ultrasound or MRI does not rule out endometriosis. Some lesions, especially superficial forms, may not be visible on imaging. If symptoms persist, a medical assessment remains important even when results are normal.
This article is for information only and does not replace a medical consultation. If you have intense or persistent period pain, talk to your doctor or gynaecologist.
My sources
- Ameli (French national health insurance): endometriosis, symptoms, diagnosis and course (in French)
- World Health Organization: endometriosis fact sheet (in French)
- Scientific article on PubMed Central (PMC12893799)
- Ameli: wanting a pregnancy and endometriosis (in French)
- ESHRE: patient guideline on endometriosis (PDF)
- NICE: endometriosis guideline NG73
This is also available as a carousel on Instagram.
See also: Pregnant women