Skip to main content Endometriosis can have a range of symptoms that are not always attributed to the condition. A prime example of this is fatigue, which is a feeling of constant tiredness or weakness that can be physical, mental, or combination of both.
Research has found that 50.7% of women with endometriosis suffer from fatigue.
People with endometriosis-related fatigue describe it as feeling ‘exhausted’, ‘drained’, ‘tired’, ‘lethargic’, ‘worn out’, and/or 'weak’. Endometriosis-related fatigue is often associated with other symptoms, including pain, anxiety, stress and irregular bleeding. Fatigue is most commonly experienced before or during the first few days of a period, however it can also be experienced throughout the month and with ovulation. This can have a significant impact on quality of life, as fatigue can interrupt everyday activities, social events, exercise, relationships with partners and family, work and school.
Why does endometriosis cause fatigue?
The causes of endometriosis-related fatigue are not fully understood. One theory relates to inflammation: in endometriosis, the body is thrown into overdrive trying to combat endometriotic deposits. The immune system releases chemicals (like cytokines) which try to fight endometriosis but in doing so can cause inflammation in the body. This is known as a systemic response and this stress to the body can cause fatigue.
The symptoms of endometriosis can also contribute to fatigue due to the psychological burden endometriosis has on the body. Those experiencing this fatigue often attribute it to pain, insomnia, depression, and school and occupational stressors.
You are not alone
In one study Patients’ perspectives of endometriosis related fatigue: qualitative interviews, it details 22 women’s experience with endometriosis-related fatigue. It explains in the patients’ own words their experience and how it made them feel. One patient says it feels ‘like somebody completely drained your energy out of you. And it’s really hard to like function and complete your daily tasks as you normally would if it wasn’t that time of the month.’
Other studies have shown that fatigue is one of the most intense and frequent symptoms of endometriosis and also causes associated distress. (See research references below)
Simple strategies to help endometriosis-related fatigue
Here are some simple steps that may help manage your fatigue.
1. Your sleep routine (sleep hygiene)
A good night’s sleep is important but can be hard to achieve. Try to set a regular bedtime. Also, give yourself time to wind down before bed, ideally screen free. The Centre for Clinical Interventions, based in Western Australia, has some excellent evidence-based resources that you can access to assist with monitoring and improving your sleep hygiene.
2. Keep active
It is important to incorporate exercise into our daily activities, such as a walk or yoga session. Studies have shown that exercise can improve sleep quality in people suffering from insomnia.
3. Eat well
Food is the body’s fuel and what we put into our bodies can affect our energy levels, so try to eat a balanced diet. Consider talking to a GP or a dietician to have an assessment of your vitamins and minerals. Low iron levels, for example, can often contribute to fatigue.
If you feel you need further support to manage your fatigue, please seek medical advice from your GP or gynaecologist.