Endometriosis: separating myths from facts

Endometriosis is a chronic, often misunderstood condition that affects millions of women. Persistent myths can delay diagnosis, minimize symptoms and prevent women from getting the care they need. At Main Line Health, our gynecology specialists provide the facts and focus on listening, education and coordinated care to help women feel supported at every stage.

Myth #1: Painful periods are normal

Fact: Severe period pain should be examined

Severe or debilitating period pain is not normal and should be evaluated. While some menstrual discomfort can be expected, pain that interferes with work, school or daily life may signal endometriosis or another underlying condition.

If pain is disrupting a your quality of life, it's important to take that seriously. "Listening carefully to symptoms is often the first step toward identifying conditions like endometriosis," says Stephanie P. Langsam, MD, OB/GYN, Lankenau Campus Chief, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology.

Myth #2: Endometriosis only affects older women

Fact: Younger patients can also be affected

Endometriosis can affect women of many ages, including teenagers and young adults. Symptoms often begin years before a diagnosis is made.

Myth #3: You can't have endometriosis if you can get pregnant

Fact: Many women with endometriosis have successful pregnancies

Many women with endometriosis can and do become pregnant. Although endometriosis can be associated with fertility challenges for some, it does not automatically cause infertility.

Myth #4: Endometriosis is easy to diagnose

Fact: Other conditions have similar symptoms

Endometriosis is often difficult to diagnose and may take years to confirm. Symptoms, while treatable, can often overlap with other conditions, making evaluation complex.

Myth #5: There is no treatment for endometriosis

Fact: Endometriosis is chronic, yet manageable

There are many treatments that can significantly improve quality of life. Treatments can include:

• Medications
• Physical therapy (PT)
• Surgery
• A combination of these

Endometriosis is a chronic condition, but symptoms can often be managed with personalized care. "The goal isn't just symptom management — it's helping you regain comfort and quality of life," explains Dr. Langsam. "Endometriosis doesn't follow a single timeline, and it doesn't present the same way for every patient."

"Early symptoms are always worth discussing with an OB/GYN, regardless of age, because there is no single symptom or test that defines the condition," says Dr. Langsam.

She concludes with, "Taking a thoughtful, step‑by‑step approach — and having open conversations about your goals — helps ensure care is truly individualized and that you feel heard and supported throughout your journey."

Advanced support at Main Line Health

For women diagnosed with endometriosis who need additional support, Main Line Health's Advanced Gynecology Program offers coordinated, multidisciplinary care. Our program brings together advanced gynecology specialists, minimally invasive surgeons, pelvic floor physical therapists, behavioral health professionals and sexual medicine clinicians to support women with complex gynecologic conditions.

Next steps

Consider scheduling an appointment with your OB/GYN if you:

• Have pelvic or menstrual pain that interferes with daily life
• Experience symptoms that are not improving with routine treatment
• Have been diagnosed with endometriosis and need additional support
• Feel unsure about next steps or long-term management options

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