Can endometriosis cause shoulder pain during periods?

Yes—endometriosis can cause shoulder pain that flares around your period, most commonly when endometriosis affects the diaphragm (especially on the right side). Irritation and inflammation in this area can refer pain to the shoulder or upper arm and may feel sharp, achy, or worse with deep breathing or coughing.

Because shoulder pain can have many causes, the most important clue is a clear cyclical pattern that tracks with your menstrual cycle and/or occurs alongside other endometriosis symptoms. In a small subset of patients, symptoms above the diaphragm can overlap with thoracic endometriosis and include chest pain, shortness of breath, or (rarely) lung collapse around menses.

If you’re noticing predictable shoulder or chest symptoms during your period, our team can help you sort out whether this fits diaphragmatic/thoracic endometriosis versus a look-alike condition and plan the right next steps—often starting with a detailed symptom timeline and targeted imaging when appropriate. If surgery is part of your plan, careful inspection of the diaphragm can be important even when symptoms are subtle; you’re welcome to reach out to schedule a consultation so we can review your history in detail.