Endometriosis is a common medical condition that primarily affects women of reproductive age (25-40). It occurs when cells that are normally found within the uterus begin to appear outside of the uterus. Places such as the ovaries, fallopian tubes or the peritoneum (a thin tissue that lines the abdominal organs). When this occurs, this is considered endometriosis.
Endometriosis affects each woman differently. While some will experience no symptoms, others may notice heavy periods, cramps, back pain or painful intercourse. In these cases, endometriosis can severely impact the quality of life and stop normal day to day activities.
Finding effective ways to manage endometriosis is important. Listed below are a number of management techniques to consider. It is possible that one or more of these options may need to be combined to find optimal relief. Be sure to speak to your doctor before undertaking any of these potential options.
General management options
Non-medicinal pain relief
- Hot water bottles
- TENS machine
Targeted medicinal pain relief
These are used specifically to help manage the pain of endometriosis
- Contraceptive pills
- Hormone therapy
General medicinal pain relief
Medication such as Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (eg. ibuprofen) or other over-the-counter analgesics may be used to help control pain.
Dietary changes
Focus on eating foods thought to be ‘anti-inflammatory.’ On their own, dietary changes will not cure endometriosis but in the long-term they may help improve some of its symptoms. Consider adding the following to your diet
- Omega-3 fatty acids: cold water fish (salmon, sardines, herring, mackerel)
- Low-glycemic foods and fruits
- Foods high in antioxidants: yellow, orange, and red vegetables, dark leafy greens
- Vegetable proteins: soybeans, lentils, legumes, nuts, seeds
- Complex carbohydrates: whole grains, brown rice, bulgur wheat, sweet potatoes
Other activities that may help
- Pelvic floor physical therapy
- Meditation
- Exercise
Surgery
The primary treatment of endometriosis is a surgical procedure known as excision of endometriosis. In this operation, the doctor will remove all visible endometriotic tissue within the pelvis. Once removed, symptoms should improve. Speak to your doctor about your specific case to determine if and when surgery would be appropriate.
Regardless of the management option chosen, be sure to speak to your doctor about how best to manage your own case of endometriosis. Much about endometriosis is unique to each patient’s history, diagnosis and severity of symptoms. So if you have noticed any of the symptoms above, be sure to see your doctor.
