What is one primary symptom that might indicate a woman has endometriosis?

Dysmenorrhea, or painful menstruation, is a primary symptom associated with endometriosis. This condition occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus, often resulting in inflammation, scarring, and the formation of adhesions. This abnormal tissue growth can lead to severe menstrual cramps that are typically more intense than those experienced in normal menstrual cycles.

Women with endometriosis may experience pain not only during menstruation but also during intercourse, bowel movements, or urination. The intensity of the pain can vary, but it often does not correlate with the severity of the disease itself, meaning that even women with mild endometriosis can experience debilitating pain. This symptom is crucial for diagnosis and management of the condition, making it a significant indicator for clinicians evaluating patients with suspected endometriosis.