Symptom Management for Endometriosis
Navigating Pain and Discomfort
Endometriosis, a chronic condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, affects 10-15% of women during their reproductive years. Its symptoms—ranging from pelvic pain and painful periods to fatigue and digestive issues—can significantly disrupt daily life. While there is no cure, symptom management has become a key focus for improving quality of life.
Have a Physician on Board
Medications remain the first line of defense. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can help manage pain, while hormonal treatments, such as birth control or GnRH agonists, aim to reduce the hormonal fluctuations that exacerbate symptoms. However, medication alone may not be enough for many women, making physical therapy a critical component of treatment.
Your Body Needs More Than Systemic Medication
Pelvic physical therapy is gaining recognition for its role in alleviating endometriosis-related discomfort. Techniques like myofascial release, visceral manipulation, and pelvic floor therapy focus on reducing muscle tightness, improving pelvic alignment, and addressing issues like painful intercourse and bowel dysfunction. Many patients report significant relief through manual therapy, combined with targeted stretching and breathing exercises. It’s also important to emphasis the benefits from a daily walking program which has shown to improve both mental and physical health. In pelvic physical therapy we educate and empower our patients teaching them about their body and providing them with the tools to help self management conditions such as pelvic pain.
Invasive Options
For more severe cases, surgical options may be explored. Laparoscopic surgery can remove endometrial tissue and adhesions, improving symptoms and fertility outcomes. However, surgery is not a permanent solution, and symptoms can return, requiring ongoing management.
The Bottom Line
Ultimately, endometriosis is a complex, multifaceted condition. While there is no one-size-fits-all approach, combining medications, physical therapy, lifestyle changes, and sometimes surgery provides the best opportunity for symptom relief. A multidisciplinary approach remains essential in managing this chronic condition.
Alternative Therapies
Many women with endometriosis present with tightness within the pelvic floor. There are a few yoga poses you can perform that can help to release this tightness (see gallery below). Other alternatives include acupuncture, meditation and mindfulness exercises. Nutrition continues to remain a significant part of helping to manage hormone imbalances and reduce inflammation within the body.
Yoga Poses to Try for Endometriosis/Pelvic Pain
If you are trying this for the first time it’s smart and recommended to have a trained yoga instructor or physical therapist guide you into position and help with any adjustments that should be made. Instructors are great for reinforcing correct breathing mechanics which can make a huge difference between straining into a position and easing gently into it. Our sessions are for up to one hour in a private treatment room.
