Living With Endometriosis: What Can I Do?
If you have endometriosis, you’re not alone. This condition affects millions of women in the United States. While there is no cure for endometriosis, there are treatments that can help lessen your symptoms.
The first step is to see your doctor or other healthcare provider to discuss your symptoms. They can do a pelvic exam and order tests to check for endometriosis.
There are several treatments for endometriosis, but the right one for you depends on your symptoms and how severe they are. Some women only need over-the-counter pain relief, while others may need surgery.
You can also improve symptoms through diet and exercise and by using specific herbs for endometriosis.
Endometriosis: A Chronic Health Condition
Endometriosis can be a chronic condition, meaning it can last for years, or even a lifetime. The symptoms can come and go. They usually start around the time of your first period and improve after you have a baby, but they may get worse as you get older.
Endometriosis Pain
The most common symptom of endometriosis is pelvic pain. The pain may be mild or severe. It often starts just before or during your period and goes away after your period ends. Some women have pain all the time.
Other symptoms of endometriosis include:
- Heavy bleeding during your period
- Pain during sex
- Pain with bowel movements or urination
- Infertility
- Fatigue
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Bloating
- Nausea
How can I Relieve Endometriosis Pain?
There are several things you can do to relieve your pain.
Use over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or naproxen.
Put a heating pad on your stomach or lower back.
Exercise and stay active. Exercise can help relieve pain by increasing endorphins, which are natural painkillers.
Use a menstrual cup or pad instead of a tampon. Tampons can irritate the lining of the uterus and make pain worse.
Try relaxation techniques, such as yoga or meditation.
See your doctor for other treatment options if over-the-counter
Avoid caffeine and alcohol.
Try a relaxation technique, such as yoga or meditation.
Try a tens machine. This is a device that sends electrical impulses to your nerves to help relieve pain.
Eat Healthy, learn how to freeze fresh herbs so you can use herbs all year round to support your Endometriosis condition.
See a physical therapist. They can teach you exercises to help relieve your pain.
Endometriosis Surgery
If your pain is severe and other treatments haven’t worked, you may need surgery. The type of surgery you have depends on where the endometriosis lesions are and how severe they are.
Laparoscopy. This is a minor surgical procedure. The surgeon makes small incisions in your abdomen and inserts a laparoscope, a thin tube with a camera. The camera allows the surgeon to see the endometriosis lesions and remove them.
Laparotomy. This is a more major surgical procedure. The surgeon makes a larger incision in your abdomen and removes the endometriosis lesions.
Hysterectomy. This is major surgery to remove the uterus and sometimes the ovaries. It may be an option if you have severe endometriosis and you’re no longer trying to get pregnant.
Endometriosis can be a difficult condition to live with, but there are treatments that can help . Talk to your doctor about your symptoms and treatment options.
What is endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a condition in which the tissue that lines the uterus grows outside of the uterus. This tissue can grow on the ovaries, Fallopian tubes, and other organs in the pelvis. Endometriosis can also grow in the lining of the pelvic cavity, such as on the bowel or bladder.
Coping With Chronic Health Conditions
If you have a chronic health condition, it’s important to take care of yourself. This includes eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, and getting enough sleep.
It’s also important to find ways to manage stress. Stress can make symptoms worse. Try relaxation techniques, such as yoga or meditation.
If you’re having trouble coping with your condition, talk to your doctor. He or she can refer you to a counselor or therapist who can help you manage your condition.
Be Your Best Self
You can’t control everything in your life, but you can control how you respond to it. No matter what life throws your way, remember that you’re strong enough to handle it. You’re not alone. There are people who care about you and want to help you through tough times. Do what you can to take care of yourself, both physically and emotionally and it will help you to better cope as you live with this medical condition.
References:
https://www.womenshealth.gov/a-z-topics/endometriosis
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/endometriosis/symptoms-causes/syc-20354656
https://www.kaleberri.com/herbs-for-endometriosis/