Endometriosis and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) may share genetic links, a study from the University of Queensland has found.
People with endometriosis are twice as likely to develop a gut disease, like IBS, peptic ulcer disease (PUD) and gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) due to a genetic link between the two.
"This genetic finding supports the clinical observation of an increased incidence of gastrointestinal disorders in women with endometriosis," University of Queensland Professor Grant Montgomery said.
"We hope that this study will raise more awareness about the overlap of these conditions."
One in seven women suffer from endometriosis, a disease characterised by the uterine lining being found outside of the uterus, causing severe pain and other issues.
Those with endometriosis are four times more likely to be diagnosed with GORD, the study also found.
"Sufferers can find it difficult to distinguish the source of their pain leading to confusion or misdiagnosis and years of delay in treatment during which time the endometriosis can progress to more severe disease," Montgomery said.
"Endometriosis should be considered as a possible cause if a woman presents to her GP with abdominal pain and gastrointestinal symptoms."
"As our knowledge of risk factors for endometriosis increases, we hope to move closer to understanding how the disease develops and improve treatments and diagnosis."
IBS affects one in five women and causes bloating, pain and bowel issues.
