Incontinence with endometriosis may not affect all endo-sufferers, however, there have been some identified links between the two conditions.

Before we dive deeper into this topic, let’s look at endometriosis itself.

Also referred to as endo, endometriosis is a chronic condition that occurs when cells (endometrium) similar to those that line the uterus grow into tissue in other parts of the pelvis, such as the ovaries or fallopian tubes.

The hormonal changes of a menstrual cycle affect these misplaced cells, and the areas they’re attached to can become inflamed and cause pain. While over time the tissue breaks down it becomes trapped in your pelvis as it has nowhere to go (it isn’t shedding with your uterus during a menstrual cycle).

This trapped tissue can cause issues such as:

• Severe pain and irritation during the menstrual cycle
• Scar formation
• Adhesions (where the tissue and pelvic organs bind together)
• Fertility problems

Symptoms of endometriosis vary from person to person, however, some include:

• Painful periods
• Cramps a week or two around menstruation
• Heavy menstrual bleeding or bleeding between periods
• Fertility problems
• Pain during sexual intercourse
• Discomfort with bowel movements
• Lower back pain that may occur at any time during your menstrual cycle

Always speak to a medical professional for diagnosis.

Another organ where endometriosis can form is the bladder. While bladder endometriosis is generally rarer than the other forms of endo mentioned, it does still occur and can affect continence. There is both superficial bladder endometriosis (endo occurs on the surface) and deep bladder endometriosis (endo has reach the bladder lining).

A 2014 report on endometriosis found that up to 5 per cent of women who have the condition, have it in their urinary system with the bladder being the urinary organ most affected. The ureters can also be impacted.

While it’s not overly common, bladder endometriosis can result in an overactive bladder or urge incontinence, which may lead to urinary leaks.

One study of women - 520 of which had endo, and 641 that did not have endo - found that half the participants with endometriosis reported lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). Compared to the participants without endo, those with the condition had high odds of showing urinary incontinence, among other urinary symptoms.

So while incontinence with endometriosis isn’t overtly common, it can occur and is definitely something to be aware of.

If you’re concerned you may be experiencing bladder endometriosis and/or urinary incontinence, see your doctor for an assessment and referral to a specialist if necessary.

Urinary incontinence can be managed with medications and hormone therapy could help restore bladder function. Lifestyle changes can also help, including avoiding caffeine and maintaining a healthy body weight.

You can also check out our expert tips here for how to manage your symptoms and make your day-to-day more comfortable.

If endometriosis is found to be the main reason for your incontinence, your medical professional may suggest laparoscopic surgery to remove the endo tissue to help improve the urinary leaks.

We should also note that menstruation pads and products are inefficient in managing urinary incontinence. See our range of quality-assured incontinence pads here to ensure you’re properly covered for urinary incontinence.

If you have any questions about our product range, you can speak to our customer service team 6 days a week, by calling 1800 86 11 99 or emailing hello@confidenceclub.com.au. We also have an online chat on our website. We’re here to help!

We hope this article has helped shed some light on what to expect regarding incontinence with endometriosis. Why not check out our other helpful articles while you’re here?