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You suspect you may have endometriosis or adenomyosis

What is catamenial pneumothorax?

Topic:Deep Disease
Affected areas:chestsystemicabdominal
An illustration of 3 silhouetted women each showing discomfort in areas of the pelvis.

Catamenial pneumothorax is a collapsed lung that happens in a repeating pattern around your menstrual period—most often just before or during bleeding. It’s considered part of thoracic endometriosis syndrome, where endometriosis affects the diaphragm, chest cavity, or (more rarely) lung tissue.


People may notice sudden one-sided chest pain, shortness of breath, or a “recurring pneumothorax” that seems to return month after month. Because routine imaging can confirm the lung collapse but not always reveal the cause, the menstrual timing is an important clue. If your chest symptoms track your cycle—especially with a history of suspected or known endometriosis—our team can help connect the dots and discuss next steps for evaluation and treatment options.

Worried About Lung Pain During Periods?

Catamenial pneumothorax causes lung collapse around your menstrual cycle and needs expert care. Our specialists diagnose and treat this rare thoracic endometriosis condition to help you breathe easier.

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Lotus Endometriosis Institute provides California-based surgical evaluation and advanced excision care for patients with suspected endometriosis, adenomyosis, complex pelvic pain, and related conditions.


Many patients contact us from outside California to learn whether traveling for in-person evaluation and possible surgery may be appropriate.

Santa Monica, CA

2121 Santa Monica Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90404

Operating Hours

8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Monday - Friday

Arroyo Grande, CA

154 Traffic Way, Arroyo Grande, CA 93420