Early Signs of Endometriosis Women Shouldn’t Ignore

If you’ve ever been told your pain is “just a bad period” or you’ve felt dismissed in the doctor’s office, this conversation is going to hit home.In this episode, I’m joined by the brilliant Dr. Jason Mak, a leading gynecological surgeon and ultrasound specialist who's changing the game in how we understand and treat endometriosis. We dive deep into the myths that still surround endometriosis, why early intervention (especially in teens) is so crucial, and how diet, gut health, and even microbiomes in the uterus play an unexpected role in symptom management. Dr. Mak also unpacks why endometriosis doesn’t always equal infertility, the evolving standards in diagnosis (hint: it’s not just about surgery anymore), and the importance of listening—really listening—to women’s pain.This episode is brought to you by RUKSAK - helping you turn every walk into a workout with weighted vests, backpacks and accessories. Visit ⁠⁠⁠https://rebrand.ly/ruksak_spotify⁠⁠⁠ and use the code “SHAUNA15” for 15% off all purchases.For more info, or to get in touch with Dr Jason Mak:Follow Gaiacology on Instagram, visit their website or if you’re a Central Coast local, call (02) 4323 7680 to make an appointment.Follow Dr Shauna and the podcast on social:Podcast Website: ⁠www.allaboutyoupod.com⁠.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allaboutyou_withdrshaunawattshttps://www.instagram.com/drshaunawattsgpLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shauna-watts-a903a524700:00:00 – Understanding Endometriosis Beyond Period Pain00:02:07 – Early Signs of Endometriosis Women Shouldn’t Ignore00:05:17 – How Endometriosis Disrupts Daily Life & Relationships00:06:27 – Medical Gaslighting: Why Women’s Pain Is Often Dismissed00:08:03 – Why Early Diagnosis in Teens Matters for Future Fertility00:10:55 – What Is Endometriosis? A Simple Explanation for Women Over 4000:11:10 – What Really Causes Endometriosis? Gut Health, Hormones & More00:15:10 – Is Endometriosis Genetic? Latest Research & Family History00:17:29 – IBS or Endometriosis? Understanding the Overlap00:18:27 – Gut Microbiome and Endometriosis: The Surprising Connection00:20:19 – Best Anti-Inflammatory Diet Tips for Endometriosis Relief00:26:34 – Using Hormones to Manage Endometriosis in Perimenopause00:30:08 – Endometriosis in Your 40s: What You Need to Know00:30:15 – Perimenopause & Endometriosis: When Symptoms Get Worse00:32:31 – Rucking for Bone Health & Heart Health After 4000:34:37 – Can You Diagnose Endometriosis Without Surgery? Yes—Here’s How00:35:27 – How Ultrasound Can Detect Endometriosis in Women Over 3500:39:29 – Does It Hurt? What to Expect During an Endometriosis Ultrasound00:41:28 – Pelvic Floor Pain vs. Endometriosis: What’s Really Causing It?00:42:50 – Uncommon Endometriosis Symptoms Women Often Miss00:45:42 – Painful Sex After 40? It Could Be Endometriosis00:47:24 – Bloating & Bowel Pain During Periods: Endometriosis or Something Else?00:48:27 – Hormone Therapy for Endometriosis: What Works Best00:50:13 – Is Surgery Worth It for Endometriosis Pain Relief?00:51:11 – Can Endometriosis Really Cause Infertility After 35?00:52:59 – How Experts Remove Endometriosis: Excision vs. Ablation Explained00:55:35 – Should You Get a Hysterectomy for Endometriosis? Pros & Cons00:59:40 – Why Dr. Jason Mak is Passionate About Endometriosis Advocacy01:01:31 – Can You Get Pregnant With Endometriosis? Dr. Mak’s Insight01:02:42 – How the Healthcare System Can Do Better for Women With Pain01:05:45 – Think You Have Endometriosis? What to Do Next01:06:56 – Advice Dr. Mak Wishes He Could Tell His Younger Self01:08:36 – Final Thoughts: Don’t Ignore Your Pain – You Deserve AnswersDisclaimer: This podcast and any information, advice, opinions or statements within it do not constitute medical, health care or other professional advice. Information is provided for educational and entertainment purposes only.