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What is endometriosis? (vocab time!)
Endometrial tissue is the tissue that lines the uterus. It is shed during menstruation (your period).
Endometriosis is the presence of endometrial tissue outside the natural site in which it occurs. This can be anywhere in the body, but is most often found on the ovaries. The Fallopian tubes, uterosacral ligaments, and the gastrointestinal tract are other common sites.
Adenomyosis is when the tissue that normally lines the uterus (endometrial tissue) grows into the muscular wall of the uterus.
What are the symptoms? (remember - this isn't for diagnosis, just for knowledge)
Some common symptoms include:
Pain:
Dysmenorrhea - painful periods
Dyspareunia - pain with sex
Pelvic pain, low back pain, abdominal pain
Cyclical AND non-cyclical (IE - both changing with the menstrual cycle and regardless of the cycle).
Pain with using the bathroom
Some do get relief of general pelvic pain after bowel movement.
Excessive menstrual bleeding and breakthrough bleeding (bleeding outside of period)
Difficulty getting pregnant
What are the treatment options? (please talk to your doc about treatment options - this is a short list for informational purposes)
Pain medications: this can be helpful in controlling pain, however long term NSAID use can cause GI issues, and with the significant issues related to opioids - it is likely just a short term solution. This treats the symptoms.
Hormone therapy to stop ovulation - either to mimic a "pregnancy" state or a "menopausal" state. This can be a valid treatment option for those who are not looking to get pregnant. Like any medication - there are side effects that may make this not a great option for some. This treats the symptoms.
Surgery. Complete removal of abnormal endometrial tissue from areas it shouldn't have been. This is believed to actually "cure" the disease if all tissue is excised.
Some patients will also opt for a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus).
Technically speaking, surgery is the only way to actually get an official endometriosis diagnosis.
Physical Therapy. PT can be helpful in symptom management, as well as after surgery to promote full recovery and return to activity. In our next post, we will discuss how PT can be helpful to folks with endometriosis!
Looking for more resources on treatments for endometriosis? Check out Nancy's Nook.
References
About the author: Dr. Caitlyn Hauswirth-Varis, PT, DPT, OCS, CFMT, CF-L1
Caitlyn is board certified as an orthopedic specialist and an expert in pelvic floor physical therapy. She has extensive training in pelvic health and visceral evaluation and treatment, and has worked with countless individuals with symptoms related to endometriosis.
Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult with a qualified healthcare professional for personalized guidance.
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