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Endometriosis is a chronic and often painful condition affecting 10% of women globally^(1). Women with endometriosis experience a variety of symptoms that can be debilitating. This is why obtaining a diagnosis and treatment are critical. For this reason, if you have or suspect you have endometriosis, you may want to know more about various aspects of endometriosis and very importantly, when endometriosis surgery is needed. To allay any concerns, let’s discuss this matter in more detail. 

Getting an Endometriosis Diagnosis

Doctors begin the complex process of diagnosing endometriosisbased on your symptoms. Some of the symptoms may mimic those of ovarian cysts or irritable bowel syndrome, so the best way to identify endometriosis is through a process of physical examination and various imaging technologies. They begin with the least invasive and safest methods such as ultrasound or an MRI to view and identify the source of the symptoms. The new non-invasive gold standard in diagnosing endometriosis is ultrasound. During an ultrasound, in experienced hands, they are able to obtain more precise images of deep endometriosis lesions, adhesions, and endometriotic cysts, and rule out other potential sources of the symptoms, among other things. 

Treatment for Endometriosis

Once endometriosis has been identified, the doctor will discuss potential treatment options. Treatments vary depending on family planning, symptoms, and severity of the endometriosis. Treatment can begin with less invasive methods like painkillers, then hormone-based treatments. Surgical treatment however is an option if endometriosis symptoms impact on QoL and after careful consideration the potential benefits of surgery outweigh the risks of surgery. 

When To Pursue Surgery for Endometriosis

This depends on the severity of the endometriosis symptoms, the impact of these symptoms on QoL, the goals of the patient, the other treatment options that have been trialled and the input of the gynaecologist. 

The decision to pursue surgical treatment, however, is made in consultation with a doctor under careful consideration.

Types of Endometriosis Surgery

There are three primary forms of endometriosis surgery, laparoscopy and robotic surgery. The least invasive and most common procedure is a laparoscopy or robotic surgery. In a laparoscopy or robotic surgery, a small incision is made near the navel through which a camera is inserted in order to confirm the location of the endometrial tissue, followed by the removal of the endometrial tissue. These surgical approaches are typically performed under general anaesthesia.

Hysterectomy is a good surgical procedure to cure heavy menstrual bleeding disorders. Hysterectomy however is not a good operation for pelvic pain; it may be helpful for adenomyosis symptoms but any decision to proceed with this surgical procedure needs to be carefully discussed with your gynaecologist.

The Benefits of Endometriosis Surgery

Endometriosis surgery offers many women significant relief from the symptoms of endometriosis. It can alleviate pain, may improve fertility, provide a definitive diagnosis (especially for superficial endometriosis), and help doctors form a long-term plan to manage the condition. 

For some women, endometriosis surgery is necessary when other treatments fail, there are complications, or if the condition is progressing rapidly. As previously said, some women with input from their gynaecologist may decide to proceed with surgery as a preference. If you have or suspect you have endometriosis, it is critical to seek medical attention in order to improve your quality of life and prevent it from progressing and becoming more severe. 

References:

1. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/endometriosis-experiences-the-long-painful-road-to-diagnosis

As many as 10% of women are affected by endometriosis¹and for many, getting an accurate diagnosis can take up to seven years². As the endometrial tissue grows outside of the uterus, it can cause a range of symptoms and be extremely painful. The condition may affect various organs such as ovaries, fallopian tubes, uterus, and the tissue lining your pelvis. For women living with such a condition, reaching an accurate diagnosis can be life-changing as it is the first step in beginning treatment. But does endometriosis show up on tests, and how does a doctor reach a diagnosis?

Begin By Discussing Your Symptoms with a Doctor

There is a sizable overlap between various gynaecological conditions, and the symptoms of endometriosis can vary, which may lengthen the diagnostic and testing process. For this reason, before your doctor begins running tests, they will need to know as much as possible about your symptoms and medical history. Keep a diary and take notes of any symptoms you experience. These symptoms include painful periods, excessive bleeding, spotting between menstruation, painful intercourse, painful bowel movements or urination, fatigue, bloating and difficulty getting pregnant. This information will help your doctor choose the ideal test and rule out other potential conditions.

How Do Doctors Choose the Right Test for Endometriosis?

Your doctor will select the most suitable test based on your symptoms, medical history, and their clinical judgment. There is no single definitive test for endometriosis, so in some cases, a combination of tests may be required to reach a diagnosis. 

Pelvic Examination

During a pelvic exam, the doctor will manually feel various areas in your pelvis for abnormalities. They may be able to identify cysts on your reproductive organs or scars behind your uterus. However, endometriosis often can’t be detected unless it has affected the vagina or there is the presence of an endometriotic cyst. A pelvic examination is the first step a doctor will take as it is the fastest and may yield other important information. 

Ultrasound

Ultrasound is a safe and non-invasive testing method that uses high-frequency soundwaves to form an image of the pelvic area. During the examination, the doctor will insert the ultrasound probe into the vagina to view the reproductive organs. An ultrasound can help identify adenomyosis, endometriotic cysts, ovarian immobility, recto-uterine adhesions, and deep endometriosis potentially affecting uterosacral ligaments, vagina, rectum, bladder, ureters as well as structural abnormalities. 

The CA125 Blood Test

Though the blood test for endometriosis is far from definitive, it is able to identify high levels of a protein called CA125 in the blood. Elevated CA125 levels can be a symptom of conditions such as cancer and endometriosis, but some women with endometriosis might not have elevated levels at all. For this reason, researchers are still trying to improve this testing method. Routine use of  CA125 is NOT recommended.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

Unlike ultrasound, an MRI uses a magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of the organs and tissues in the body to potentially reveal endometriosis. MRIs are non-invasive and painless, but they are usually not the first test suggested due to their cost. An MRI like ultrasound can help identify adenomyosis, endometriotic cysts, ovarian immobility, recto-uterine adhesions, and deep endometriosis potentially affecting uterosacral ligaments, vagina, rectum, bladder, ureters as well as structural abnormalities. 

Laparoscopy

While an invasive laparoscopy is considered the gold standard in diagnosing endometriosis, with the advances in non-invasive imaging diagnosis this is being challenged. During this procedure, the doctor will insert the laparoscopic camera into the abdomen near the navel to view the area. This allows them to identify signs of endometrial-like tissue outside the uterus. 

Due to the complex nature of endometriosis, a range of testing methods may be required to help doctors identify it. It is essential to discuss these testing methods with your doctor while deciding the best course of action to help ease any concerns or anxiety. If you are experiencing some of the symptoms of endometriosis, don’t wait to get medical advice. Please see your GP and/or gynaecologist to arrange a deep endometriosis ultrasound.

References:

¹ https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/endometriosis-experiences-the-long-painful-road-to-diagnosis

² https://www.aihw.gov.au/getmedia/a4ba101d-cd6d-4567-a44f-f825047187b8/aihw-phe-247.pdf.aspx?inline=true

 

The short answer is no.

The pain and discomfort of endometriosis can severely affect one’s quality of life and ability to carry out day-to-day activities. For those experiencing symptoms, understanding how endometriosis is diagnosed is essential. Getting an accurate diagnosis can be difficult as there are a variety of diagnostic methods. For this reason, doctors and researchers are discussing the role of blood tests in the diagnosis of endometriosis. So, what are the diagnostic procedures for endometriosis, and can a blood test diagnose endometriosis? 

How is Endometriosis Diagnosed?

In the initial stages of diagnosis, healthcare providers assess symptoms, perform pelvic examinations, and may use imaging tests like ultrasounds or MRIs to view the organs. Even though laparoscopic surgery has been the traditional gold standard for identifying and diagnosing endometriosis, the most recent ESHRE guidelines in 2022 state that laparoscopy is only recommended to diagnose endometriosis when imaging is negative. This means that we now can rely on a non-invasive diagnostic tool, i.e. ultrasound, to make the diagnosis of endometriosis. Unlike laparoscopy which is an invasive procedure requiring a general anaesthetic, transvaginal ultrasound can be performed in a clinic with no down time and without the risks associated with invasive laparoscopy. 

It is well known that the time it takes to diagnose endometriosis in Australian women is up to seven years from the onset of their symptoms¹. There are a multitude of reasons contributing to this delay in diagnosis and therefore doctors and researchers are working hard to find other reproducible non-invasive diagnostic method, such as a simple blood test. 

What Is the CA125 Blood Test?

Among the diagnostics for endometriosis is the CA125 blood test. Also known as cancer antigen 125, CA125 is a protein found in higher quantities in women with endometriosis. While the CA125 test can suggest the presence of endometriosis when levels are elevated, it is not specific to this condition. It can also be elevated in various other conditions, like ovarian cancer. Therefore, the CA125 test alone cannot definitively confirm the presence of endometriosis.

Has the Endometriosis Blood Test Been Proven Successful?

Despite the potential of blood tests in diagnosing endometriosis, no blood test has been proven successful as a standalone diagnostic tool. Researchers are still searching for biomarkers which will offer a more accurate and non-invasive diagnosis, but to date, no such tests have been proven to work. Elevated CA125 levels can prompt further investigation but are not definitive proof of endometriosis.

What Is the Best Way to Diagnose Endometriosis?

Given the limitations of blood tests and the invasive nature of laparoscopy, we believe that imaging in the form of transvaginal ultrasound or MRI are gamechangers when it comes to the diagnosis of endometriosis. Importantly these imaging tests need to be performed by an expert operator in the field of endometriosis. 

To reach a diagnosis, healthcare professionals require a detailed medical history, a thorough physical exam, and an imaging test like an ultrasound. Ultrasound can pick up adenomyosis, ovarian endometriomas and deep endometriosis. More recently, superficial endometriosis has been also picked up in published studies.

Choosing the Right Diagnostic Method

Patients, in consultation with a gynaecologist or endometriosis specialist, will explore diagnostic methods based on various factors. Healthcare professionals will consider the severity of the symptoms, the age of the woman, and family planning. The aim is to balance the need for a clear diagnosis while avoiding unnecessary invasive procedures. Ultrasound can fill some of this gap however the motivation to develop a simple test like a blood test is still driving researchers around the world.

If you are experiencing endometriosis-like symptoms, it is vital to speak to your doctor in order to reach a diagnosis and begin treatment. With the correct information and support, getting a diagnosis and starting treatment is less daunting.

Understanding and diagnosing endometriosis can be challenging, leading to delays of up to seven years in Australian women receiving proper diagnosis¹. Recognising potential symptoms is crucial for women to initiate informed conversations with healthcare providers and specialists regarding suitable treatment options. Endometriosis can manifest in different locations,such as the ovaries, fallopian tubes, uterus, bowel, and bladder, resulting in a wide range of symptoms. So, what are the initialindications of endometriosis?

Intense Menstrual Pain 

While some discomfort during menstruation is normal, women with endometriosis often experience severe period pain. This pain can start several days before the period begins and persist for a few days after it ends. It is typically a consequence of the extra endometrial tissue reacting to hormonal changes in the menstrual cycle.

Painful Intercourse

Experiencing discomfort or pain during or after sexual activity could be a potential sign of endometriosis. The severity ranges from mild discomfort to intense pain and is often attributed to endometrial growths responding to physical movements and pressure associated with sex.

Gastrointestinal Disturbances 

Endometriosis may also give rise to gastrointestinal issues like diarrhoea, constipation, bloating, or nausea, particularly during menstruation. The presence of endometrial tissue on the intestines or other parts of the gastrointestinal tract can cause these symptoms.

Difficulty Conceiving 

Many women with endometriosis face challenges with fertility. Infertility or reduced fertility might occur due to inflammation and scarring caused by endometrial tissue within the reproductive organs. Obstruction or diminished effectiveness of the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and uterine lining can make conception and pregnancy maintenance difficult. 

Discomfort During Urination or Bowel Movements

One early sign of endometriosis is experiencing pain or discomfort when urinating or having bowel movements, particularly around menstruation. The intensity of discomfort can vary from a dull ache to a sharp, stabbing sensation. This is attributed to the proximity of endometrial tissue growth to the bladder or bowel, leading to irritation and inflammation.

Increased Menstrual Bleeding 

Women with endometriosis may experience heavier or prolonged periods compared with their norm. This is typically due to extrashedding of endometrial tissue alongside the usual uterine lining during menstruation. Consequently, the need to change sanitary products more frequently may arise.

Bleeding Between Menstrual Periods

Intermenstrual bleeding, characterized by spotting or bleeding between periods, can also indicate endometriosis. This irregular bleeding can occur at any time and is commonly associated with the presence of endometrial tissue outside the uterus.

Presence of Blood in Urine or Stools

Noticing blood in urine or stools may indicate the presence of endometrial tissue outside the uterus. This minor bleeding is generally a response to inflammation and irritation caused by misplaced tissue.

Persistent Fatigue 

Feeling constantly exhausted, even with sufficient rest, could also indicate endometriosis. The cumulative effects of chronic pain, sleep deprivation, emotional stress, and inflammation often lead to fatigue.

Endometriosis significantly impacts one’s quality of life because its symptoms can be debilitating. If you identify any signs of endometriosis, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional. With the assistance of a doctor or gynaecologist, you can attain an accurate diagnosis and explore various treatment options to manage the symptoms.

Endometriosis affects millions of women across the globe. This complex condition results in a variety of often debilitating symptoms for women, such as extremely painful and heavy periods, bloating, fatigue, and more. The word endometriosis is derived from the word endometrium, the endometrial tissue that lines the uterus. Throughout the menstrual cycle, the endometrium grows to prepare the uterus for a fertilised egg. When endometrial-like tissue grows outside the uterus, the resulting condition is endometriosis. This raises the question: what can trigger endometriosis? 

What Doctors Know So Far

It is critical to note that, to date, doctors are not certain of the exact cause of endometriosis. Several factors are believed to increase the risk of developing endometriosis, although no single theory has been definitively proven. 

Retrograde Menstruation

Retrograde menstruation is one of many theories for what triggers endometriosis. During menstruation, instead of all the endometrial cells exiting the body as they should, some endometrial-like cells travel backwards through the fallopian tubes into the pelvic cavity. Endometriosis occurs if these cells subsequently implant and grow on the pelvic organs.

Hormonal Imbalances

Imbalances in hormones, particularly oestrogen, may contribute to the development of endometriosis. Oestrogen is responsible for thickening the endometrial lining of the uterus every month. If the levels are too high, it could stimulate the abnormal growth of endometrial-like tissue outside the uterus.

Genetic Factors

When endometriosis appears to run in families, it could be due to genetic factors. Women with a mother, sister, or daughter with endometriosis have a higher risk of developing the condition themselves. Researchers are trying to identify genes that may be linked to endometriosis.

Immune System Dysfunction

Usually, the immune system can recognise and destroy any misplaced endometrial-like cells. However, in women with endometriosis, it appears that this system fails. It’s believed that a weakened immune system or an abnormal immune response can allow endometrial-like cells to implant and grow in areas outside the uterus.

Surgical Scars

Endometrial-like cells can sometimes attach to surgical scars, such as from a caesarean section or hysterectomy. Although rarer compared to other potential triggers, the growth of these cells can lead to endometriosis.

Blood or Lymph System Transport

Another theory is that endometrial-like cells can be transported via the blood or lymph systems to other parts of the body. This may lead to endometrial-like implants in remote places such as the lungs or brain. While this is not the primary pathway for the spread of endometriosis, it does explain some rare cases.

Environmental Factors

Certain environmental toxins, such as dioxins, may increase the risk of endometriosis. Such toxins may interfere with the body’s hormonal and immune systems, potentially leading to the growth of endometrial tissue outside the uterus.

Cellular Metaplasia

The theory of cellular metaplasia suggests that certain cells outside the uterus can transform into endometrial-like cells. Hormonal and immune factors may influence this transformation, leading to the development of endometriosis.

Embryonic Cell Transformation

According to this theory, cells that are laid down during embryonic development can transform into endometrial-like cells later in life. Hormonal changes and environmental toxins may trigger this transformation.

Endometriosis is a complex condition with multiple potential triggers. While these factors may increase the likelihood of endometriosis, they do not guarantee its development. Some women may have multiple risk factors and others may develop endometriosis without any known triggers. If you suspect you have endometriosis or experience painful periods, heavy menstrual bleeding, or pain during intercourse, consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and management.

Endometriosis affects millions of women globally. This chronic condition affects each woman uniquely, so getting a diagnosis and finding an effective treatment may take time. For these reasons, women have to know how to identify and manage the pain, fatigue, and other symptoms of endometriosis. By doing this, women can take charge of their health and improve their quality of life. 

Understanding Endometriosis

Endometriosis occurs when the tissue, similar to the lining of the uterus, grows outside it. This tissue responds to and can exacerbate hormonal fluctuations throughout the cycle. The problem is that while the uterus is able to shed this tissue, the endometrial tissue has no way to exit the body, resulting in scar tissue and many symptoms. Endometriosis can grow in various places, and the symptoms can range from mild to extreme. 

Identifying the Symptoms of Endometriosis

Whether or not you have an endometriosis diagnosis, discussing these symptoms with a doctor is crucial to find ways to manage and treat them. 

Menstruation Issues

Endometriosis often results in extremely painful or heavy periods. Periods may also be irregular, or you may experience spotting. 

Pelvic or Abdominal Pain

Endometriosis may also cause pain throughout the cycle and intensify during menstruation. Take note of sharp, cramp-like, or throbbing pain in the pelvic region. 

Bloating

Often referred to as endo-belly, bloating in the abdomen can be extremely noticeable, painful, and uncomfortable. 

Painful Sex

Painful sex, indicative of endometriosis and other gynaecological issues, should never be overlooked. This pain might be deep and throbbing or sharp and stabbing.

Fatigue

Endometriosis is tied to inflammation. The body perceives the endometrial tissue as foreign, leading to an inflammatory response which can cause persistent fatigue. If there is no explanation for the fatigue, you must investigate this symptom further. 

Reduced Fertility or Infertility

Although not all women with endometriosis will face fertility issues, some do. This may be due to the location of the endometriosis (such as the ovaries), or the hormonal fluctuations exacerbated by the endometrial tissue. 

Gastrointestinal Issues

Women with endometriosis might experience constipation, diarrhoea, or nausea. Painful or uneasy bowel movements or urination can also occur if endometrial tissue grows near the bladder or intestines.

Managing the Symptoms of Endometriosis

Once you have identified any of these symptoms, it is critical to seek the advice of a qualified doctor. Together, you will find ways to manage and treat the symptoms to provide some relief.

Pain Management

One of the most prominent symptoms of endometriosis is pain, which might not respond to standard pain medication doses. Your doctor may prescribe something stronger but will also recommend applying a hot water bottle to the affected area. Other pain management options are acupuncture and gentle yoga.

Hormone Therapy

Medications like birth control, hormonal IUDs, progesterone only pills or GnRH agonists may regulate hormonal fluctuations and limit the growth of endometrial tissue.

Surgical Intervention

When other methods don’t ease the symptoms, gynaecologists may suggest minimally invasive surgeries such as laparoscopy to remove the tissue. Or if a patient does not want to use hormonal therapies, surgery can also be an option.

Lifestyle Changes

Additionally, lifestyle changes like gentle exercise, a balanced diet, consistent sleep patterns, and managing stress can bolster overall health and help tackle endometriosis symptoms.

Regardless of the severity of your symptoms, seeking medical advice early can prevent further growth and potential spread of endometrial tissue. Armed with this knowledge on endometriosis symptoms, you’re better prepared to make informed health decisions.

As part of a treatment plan for endometriosis, doctors recommend lifestyle changes such as a strict sleep regimen, regular exercise, and dietary changes. These changes assist in managing endometriosis by reducing inflammation and aiding in hormone balance. No single diet can cure endometriosis, but proper nutrition can significantly impact your symptoms and overall wellbeing. So, let’s discuss how your diet and food choices can impact your endometriosis symptoms.

The Impact of Food on Endometriosis Symptoms

Endometriosis is a complex condition in which tissue similar to that which lines the uterus grows outside of it. The result is pain, inflammation, bloating, fatigue, and hormone imbalances. The right food can help reduce these symptoms. Foods with anti-inflammatory properties can ease inflammation to reduce pain. Nutrient-dense foods can improve energy levels. Limiting fatty food may also help balance hormones. When combined with the appropriate medication, good food choices make living with endometriosis more manageable.

The Link Between Inflammation and Pain

Inflammation is a vital aspect of the body’s immune defence. Our bodies defend themselves against irritants and foreign pathogens to protect and heal, resulting in inflammation. What may look like redness, swelling, and pain is the result of this process. However, there are instances when the body mistakes its own cells for harmful tissue and attacks itself, linking inflammation to autoimmune diseases.

In the case of endometriosis (an inflammatory disease), tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside of the uterus, resulting in an inflammatory reaction in the body, contributing to pain and other symptoms. The endometriosis and the immune system release inflammatory chemicals to heal the body, but over time this ‘healing’ results in more scar tissue, causing more pain. Eating foods with anti-inflammatory properties can assist in reducing painful inflammation.

The Effect of Endometriosis on Hormones

Throughout the cycle, women’s bodies produce various hormones to create the right conditions for pregnancy. One of these hormones is oestrogen which helps the uterus lining thicken until menstruation has begun, and then the uterus sheds. Due to the tissue’s nature, endometriosis is also affected by these hormonal fluctuations, going through the same process during menstruation. High oestrogen levels have been linked to endometriosis, with some research showing that it produces additional oestrogen. Oestrogen also promotes further growth of endometriosis. With such hormonal imbalances in the body, doctors often prescribe hormone-based treatments. Reducing your fatty food intake can further support these treatments, assisting in balancing elevated hormones and slowing the growth of endometriosis.

Choose Your Food Wisely

You can reduce your endometriosis symptoms by including more of the right things in your diet and cutting out unhealthy alternatives. Opt for foods rich in anti-inflammatory properties, healthy fats, fibre, and nutrients.

Choose food high in fibre:

• Ground flaxseed
• Whole fruits and vegetables
• Legumes such as chickpeas, lentils, and beans
• Whole grains such as brown rice, oats, and quinoa

Choose healthy fats:

• Tuna, salmon, sardines, and other fatty fish
• Avocados
• Nuts and seeds such as chia, walnuts, and flaxseed
• Peanut butter
• A maximum of two low-fat servings of meat per week

Choose nutrient-dense food:

• Spinach, kale, and other leafy greens
• Edamame beans and black beans
• Almond and pumpkin seeds
• Chicken and turkey
• Shellfish such as lobster, crab, oysters

Avoid the following foods and ingredients:

• Food high in trans-fat
• Processed food
• Deep fried food
• Sugar
• Salt
• Alcohol
• Caffeine
• Refined carbohydrates

Making dietary changes can be challenging, but it is a critical component of managing the symptoms of endometriosis. While not a quick fix, it is a long-term solution. If you have or suspect you may have endometriosis, seek the advice of a medical professional for the most effective treatment options.

Endometriosis occurs when tissue, similar to that lining the uterus, grows outside of it. It is typically marked by extremely painful menstruation, chronic pelvic pain, potential fertility issues, etc. Such intense pain can become burdensome, negatively affecting one’s quality of life. Various treatments are available to manage the pain and symptoms associated with endometriosis. Doctors often prescribe hormonal birth control to manage endometriosis symptoms. Let’s discuss the benefits and risks of hormone-based medication. 

Hormones That Encourage the Growth of Endometriosis

Hormones play a pivotal role in our bodies; they influence a range of central functions, reproduction being one of them. Oestrogen helps the uterus lining thicken during the menstrual cycle. Subsequently, oestrogen levels drop, leading to menstruation and the shedding of the uterus lining. In the case of endometriosis, the endometrial-like tissue goes through a similar process. In addition, oestrogen plays a vital role in the growth of endometrial-like tissue and the associated inflammation and pain. By reducing or eliminating the amount of oestrogen in the body, symptoms may ease, and endometriosis may grow more slowly or stop altogether.

Hormones That Slow the Growth of Endometriosis

Progesterone effectively counters the effects of excess oestrogen, helping to manage endometriosis symptoms. For this reason, progestin (the synthetic form of progesterone) is often recommended as a hormone-based treatment for endometriosis. When taken continuously, progestin thins the uterus lining, stopping regular periods or making them lighter depending on the medication. As a result, the endometrial-like tissue is also potentially prevented from thickening during the menstrual cycle.

Types of Hormonal Birth Control Used toTreat Endometriosis

Doctors may prescribe hormonal birth control, a combination of oestrogen and progestin, or progestin-only birth control. GnRH (gonadotropin-releasing hormone) agonists can also be prescribed to suppress the release of ovarian-stimulating hormones and reduce oestrogen levels. However, this medication does not serve as hormonal birth control. The doctor will prescribe hormone-based medication considering factors such as age, severity of symptoms, and family planning needs. 

Hormonal birth control options for managing endometriosis include:

• • Oral contraceptive pill
• • Intrauterine device (IUD)
• • Contraceptive injection
• • Contraceptive implant
• • Progestin-only pill

The Benefits of Using Hormonal Birth Control to Manage Endometriosis

The aim of prescribing hormonal birth control to women with endometriosis is to reduce pelvic pain and heavy bleeding. Medication treatments can be an alternative to surgeries as they are not invasive and require no recovery. 

The Risks of Using Hormonal Birth Control to Manage Endometriosis

Hormonal birth control is not recommended for individuals who smoke, are prone to blood clots, or have conditions like coronary artery disease, lupus, cancer, or a history of strokes or heart attacks. Potential side effects include irregular bleeding, headaches, nausea, bloating, breast tenderness, mood changes, weight gain, and decreased libido. Hormonal birth control is also used to manage the symptoms of endometriosis, but importantly it doesn’t eliminate the endometrial-like tissue. 

If you’ve been diagnosed with endometriosis, your doctor will discuss treatment options, balancing the risks and benefits. They may recommend lifestyle changes or surgery, but hormonal treatments are also a good option depending on the type, location, and severity of the endometriosis. Hormonal birth control is commonly prescribed because the risks are low, and it is non-invasive. If you think hormonal birth control may be a good option, discuss it with your doctor at your next appointment.

Most importantly, arrange a deep endometriosis ultrasound, get a diagnosis and then make an individualised plan for yourself.

Explaining the extent of endometriosis-related pain to someone who has never experienced it can be difficult, making its management challenging and stressful. But to maintain a good quality of life, finding ways to cope with chronic pain is critical. Pain from endometriosis is commonly located in the lower back, pelvic floor, and abdomen. Coping methods range from lifestyle changes to less obvious forms of treatment. If you’re struggling to cope with chronic pain, there are tips and strategies for women with endometriosis.

Common Tips and Strategies for Coping with Endometriosis-Related Pain

There are a variety of common ways to deal with endometriosis-related pain. These strategies form the basis of any pain management solution and are proven effective in reducing chronic pain, though the best results are achieved through consistency. Maintaining these habits is vital to long-term pain reduction.

Sleep is pivotal in supporting health for anyone, and even more so for those dealing with chronic pain. Sticking to the same schedule and getting enough sleep reduces fatigue and inflammation, helping to ease the pain.

Diet plays a crucial role in tackling the inflammation associated with endometriosis. Reducing intake of salty, sugary, processed foods and increasing consumption of vegetables and healthy omega-3 fats can help reduce inflammation and pain. Staying hydrated is also helpful.

Exercise, such as yoga, is a recognised method for pain management. Its slow, gentle nature and focus on breathing help manage pain and relieve stress.

Medication, such as over-the-counter painkillers and prescribed hormone-based therapies, can help reduce pain. Doctors recommend hormone-based medications based on factors like family planning and age.

Less Common Ways to Cope with Endometriosis-Related Pain

Beyond a healthy lifestyle and medication, there are less obvious ways to manage chronic pain associated with endometriosis.

Tracking symptoms and chronic pain can help predict when and to what extent one might experience pain throughout the cycle. Knowing what lies ahead makes it easier to plan and take time to rest when the pain is at its worst.

Wireless heating pads and warm baths are brilliant strategies for easing chronic pain. The heat relaxes and soothes the muscles to reduce cramping.

Acupuncture may help manage endometriosis-related pain. This traditional Chinese practice involves applying tiny needles to the affected areas to ease cramps.

Physiotherapy and pelvic floor therapies use exercises, stretching, and breathing techniques to help strengthen the pelvic floor and relax the muscles to alleviate pain.

Supplements of Vitamins B and D can help alleviate symptoms often accompanying chronic pain. Vitamin B provides an energy boost, and vitamin D can help reduce depression and anxiety. Botox is increasingly used for medical treatments to manage conditions such as cerebral palsy, migraine, bladder problems, excess sweating, and more. Botox relaxes the muscles at the injection site, and in a small study, it has been found to lessen pain and cramps associated with endometriosis.

Unfortunately, pain often goes with endometriosis. While there are many tips and strategies for managing it, surgery can be the best option in some cases. A holistic approach to pelvic wellness implementing some of the above strategies in the lead up to and after surgery is worth discussing with your Doctor. Minimally invasive surgery, such as laparoscopy, has been proven to be effective in treating endometriosis. If you’re struggling to manage the pain and symptoms of endometriosis, consider booking an appointment with a specialist today.

Endometriosis can be difficult to diagnose and manage because of its complexity. Symptoms vary based on the location and severity of endometriosis, leading to a range of treatment options that include medications, surgery, and alternative therapies. After diagnosing endometriosis, a gynaecologist will explore these treatment options, likely starting with the least invasive and potentially advancing to surgical methods if no improvement is seen. It’s beneficial for women with endometriosis to understand these treatment options, including medications, surgery, and alternative therapies, to be prepared for their treatment journey. 

Alternative Therapies for Endometriosis

Alternative therapies are often the first line of treatment to ease the symptoms of endometriosis because they are non-invasive, don’t produce any side effects, and can help balance hormone production. Combining alternative treatments with other medical interventions can further improve the quality of life and enhance the effectiveness of these medical treatments.

Types of alternative therapies for endometriosis:

• Reducing processed foods, sugar, salt, and trans-fats and increasing green leafy vegetables, fruit, nuts, and oily fish to form a balanced, healthy diet.
• Yoga is a gentle form of exercise which is more manageable for those in pain and suffering from fatigue.
• Meditation is proven to ease stress and improve mental health.
• Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese therapy which is commonly used and shown to ease the pain and other symptoms of endometriosis

Medication Treatments for Endometriosis

Managing the pain associated with endometriosis may require more than pain medication, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Getting to the source of the problem typically offers a more long-term solution. Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to that which lines the uterus grows outside the uterus. Simply managing pain doesn’t prevent additional tissue formation, which is why hormone-based treatments can be beneficial. Oestrogen encourages the growth of endometriosis, so limiting or stopping its production can have potential impact to reduce endometriosis-related pain. Medication treatment can also be tailored to accommodate family planning goals. 

Types of hormone-based endometriosis treatments:

• Birth control pills, vaginal rings, and patches
• Progestin-only contraceptives such as pills, shots, and IUD devices
• Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) analogues
• Androgen receptor agonist
• Aromatase inhibitors

It’s important to note that hormone-based therapies may cause side effects such as depression, acne, weight gain, irregular bleeding, and increased body hair. If you experience these symptoms, discussing them with your doctor is essential.

Surgical Treatments for Endometriosis

While surgery is typically reserved for those with refractory symptoms despite medical therapies, for some it may be necessary to consider surgery as last option, it can be the most beneficial in easing the symptoms of endometriosis. 

Doctors perform the least invasive procedures to reduce pain and recovery time. The type of surgery chosen depends on the location and severity of the endometriosis, the impact of the symptoms on the QoL, the risks of the surgery, as well as the need for fertility preservation when applicable.

Types of minimally invasive surgical treatments for endometriosis:

• Laparoscopy, conducted through a small incision in the belly button
• Mini-laparoscopy, performed through a smaller incision of 5mm or less to insert instruments
• Robotic surgery similar to a laparoscopy
• Natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery is a new type of surgery performed through the stomach, bladder, vagina, or rectum.

Managing endometriosis is a unique journey for each woman. One size does NOT fit all. So, working closely with a specialist doctor to find the best treatment; be it an alternative therapy, medication, or surgery; is critical to improving one’s quality of life. An empathetic doctor will tailor a treatment plan based on their benefits, limitations, and potential side effects. Don’t wait; take control and schedule an appointment with a specialist today.