Like IBS, endometriosis can cause abdominal pain and cramping. In addition, you can experience changes in the appearance and frequency of bowel movements. Having a better understanding of the main differences between endometriosis and IBS can help you determine the right diagnosis.
Our Viewpoint
Many women are afflicted with symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, such as bloating, abdominal pain, cramping, and changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea and constipation. In many cases, women try to manage their symptoms as well as possible with either medications from physicians or over-the-counter remedies. There is a lot of data that supports the high prevalence of endometriosis in those patients who have been diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome. The Endometriosis Treatment Center of America recommends that all women who have symptoms of IBS should be fully evaluated for concomitant endometriosis. The adequate treatment of endometriosis and the reduction in inflammation can help to improve the IBS-type symptoms in women who share both endometriosis and IBS conditions.
Relevance
IBS is the most common functional gastrointestinal GI disorder with world-wide prevalence rates ranging in the area of 10-15%. 60-65% of these patients are female. There is a high statistical risk that a woman with IBS can have concomitant endometriosis, and all women who have IBS symptoms may be good candidates for evaluation for endometriosis in more detail.
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