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.
