From the Research
Endometriosis typically begins during reproductive years, with symptoms most commonly appearing between ages 25-35, though onset can occur anytime after puberty begins. Many women experience symptoms for 7-10 years before receiving a formal diagnosis, often in their late 20s or early 30s 1. The condition develops when tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, responding to hormonal changes during menstrual cycles. This process begins gradually after menarche (first menstruation), with symptoms becoming increasingly noticeable over time.
While adolescents can develop endometriosis (with approximately 10% of cases diagnosed in teenagers), diagnosis is often delayed due to symptom normalization or misdiagnosis as primary dysmenorrhea 2. Risk factors include early menarche, shorter menstrual cycles, family history, and certain reproductive tract abnormalities. The condition typically improves after menopause when estrogen levels decline, though hormone replacement therapy may cause symptoms to persist in some women. Some studies suggest that endometriosis is not exclusive to premenopausal women, with cases reported in postmenopausal women as well 3.
Key points to consider:
- The average age of onset for endometriosis is between 25-35 years old 1
- Symptoms can occur anytime after puberty begins
- Diagnosis is often delayed, with women experiencing symptoms for 7-10 years before receiving a formal diagnosis
- Risk factors include early menarche, shorter menstrual cycles, family history, and certain reproductive tract abnormalities
- The condition typically improves after menopause, but can persist in some women due to hormone replacement therapy 4, 5