03/06/2024
March is Endometriosis Awareness Month. The diagnostic delay for this condition is too long and needs to change.
It’s estimated that 10-20% of women have endometriosis and occurs in 30-50% of people with fertility challenges. It has also been found in men.
🤔 What is endometriosis?
It’s a chronic, inflammatory condition where tissue similar to the tissue that lines the inside the uterus grows outside the uterus in other parts of the body. It can be found throughout the abdomen around pelvic organs and tissues as well as outside the abdominal cavity in places like the neck, shoulder, and lungs. It creates its own blood and nerve supply and produces estrogen so it can be tricky to find the origin and remove it.
👇 What are the symptoms?
Symptoms are often related to where the tissue grows and can include:
Painful periods
Pelvic pain between periods
Heavy periods
Pain with s€x
Pain before, during, or after a bowel movement
Re**al spasms
Increased pelvic pain with constipation
Infertility
Difficulty urinating
Headaches
Fatigue
💊 What is the treatment?
While there is no cure yet, so earlier diagnosis and symptom management is key. Surgical excision, pelvic floor rehab, medication, hormone therapies, diet, and exercise can help to reduce inflammation and manage symptoms.
It takes a great multidisciplinary team to manage endo. Find providers who will listen to your story and validate your experience. You know your body best and deserve the best care.
✨ Pelvic floor rehab can help reduce painful muscle tension and improve bowel and bladder symptoms. We can also help you manage pain and inflammation through mobilization of the organs and pelvic and abdominal adhesions.
Put your questions below and reach out if you need help.
I’m here for you ❤️
