Endometriosis
Understanding Endometriosis: Symptoms, Diagnosis and Management
At Pivotal Osteopathy, we’re passionate about empowering our patients with knowledge to better understand their health. One condition that affects many women and individuals assigned female at birth is endometriosis—a complex and often misunderstood condition. Today, we’ll dive into what endometriosis is, its symptoms, diagnosis, and how it can be managed to improve quality of life.
What is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside of it, often in the pelvis and reproductive organs. This misplaced tissue can cause pain, inflammation, and even fertility challenges. Despite affecting approximately 1 in 7 women and about 10% of women globally, endometriosis is often underdiagnosed and misunderstood.
Common Symptoms Of Endometriosis
Endometriosis manifests differently for everyone, but pain is a hallmark symptom. The severity of symptoms doesn’t always correlate with the extent of the condition, making it tricky to diagnose. Common symptoms include:
- Painful periods
- Painful sex
- Abdominal, pelvic, or lower back pain
- Pain during ovulation
- Bloating
- Bladder or bowel problems
- Fatigue
- Anxiety and depression
For some individuals, endometriosis can also impact fertility, although many can conceive without medical assistance.
What Causes Endometriosis?
The exact cause of endometriosis remains unknown, but several theories exist. One leading idea is that menstrual tissue flows backward through the fallopian tubes into the pelvis during menstruation, where it attaches and grows. Genetics also play a role—those with a close relative who has endometriosis are 7 to 10 times more likely to develop the condition.
Diagnosing Endometriosis
On average, it takes seven years to receive a diagnosis for endometriosis. This delay often stems from symptoms being normalised or attributed to other conditions. Diagnosis typically involves:
- Laparoscopy: A minimally invasive surgery where a small telescope is inserted through the abdomen to confirm the presence of endometriosis.
- Ultrasound: While not definitive, ultrasounds by trained specialists can provide a working diagnosis.
- MRI: An emerging tool that may aid in diagnosis for those unable to undergo surgery.
Managing Endometriosis
While there’s currently no cure for endometriosis, there are effective ways to manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Treatment plans are tailored to the individual and may include:
- Pain Management: Pain-relief medications and non-drug therapies.
- Hormone Therapy: To regulate or suppress the menstrual cycle.
- Surgery: Laparoscopic procedures to remove endometrial tissue.
- Allied Health Support: manual therapy, psychology, and alternative therapies to address physical and emotional well-being.
How Can Osteopathy Help with Pain Associated with Endometriosis?
Osteopathy offers a holistic approach to managing the pain and discomfort associated with endometriosis. By addressing the body as a whole, our osteopaths can help alleviate symptoms and improve your overall well-being through:
- Stretches and Mobility Exercises: Prescribing specific exercises for your hips and pelvis can help reduce muscle tension in your pelvic floor, improving mobility and comfort.
- Breathing Exercises: Addressing breathing dysfunction can reduce the activation of the sympathetic nervous system, allowing your muscles to relax. Improved breathing techniques can also enhance pelvic floor relaxation and mobility due to the close relationship between the diaphragm and pelvic floor muscles.
- Individualised Strength Exercises: Tailored strength exercises, adjusted for the time of your cycle, can help reduce pain, stress, and inflammation while building resilience.
- Pain Science Education: Our osteopaths can provide education on how the pain system works, helping you understand that pain is influenced not just by structural factors but also by thoughts, emotions, past pain experiences, and sleep quality.
- Whole Body Treatment: Chronic pelvic pain often affects other parts of the body. Osteopaths will assess and treat areas of pain and dysfunction throughout your body, ensuring a comprehensive approach to your care.
At Pivotal Osteopathy, we understand the profound impact endometriosis can have on your physical and emotional health. Our practitioners are here to support you with individualised care strategies that complement your medical treatments. Whether it’s managing chronic pelvic pain or improving mobility, we aim to help you feel empowered and supported.
When to Seek Help
If severe period pain or pelvic discomfort is disrupting your daily life, it’s important to know that this isn’t “normal.” Seeking early diagnosis and treatment can significantly reduce the severity of endometriosis and its impact on your life. Remember, you’re not alone—there’s a community of support and healthcare professionals ready to help.
