Endometriosis pain lingering after diagnosis? Don't suffer in silence. Pelvic floor physiotherapy can be a game-changer for managing your symptoms and reclaiming your life
Endometriosis is a complex condition affecting 11% of women according to a 2020 study by Zondervan et al. It’s characterised by tissue similar to the lining of the uterus (endometrium) growing in other parts of the body, leading to a range of symptoms like pelvic pain (dysmenorrhoea), heavy bleeding (menorrhagia), and fatigue.
The frustrating part? It can take an average of 6.5 years to receive a diagnosis, and even after treatment, pain can persist.
If you’ve been diagnosed with endometriosis and are wondering what you can do to manage your symptoms beyond surgery or hormone therapy, there is hope.
Pelvic health Physiotherapists (Women’s Health Physio’s) are specially trained to help people with endometriosis, including those experiencing Endometriosis-Associated Pain (EAP), the chronic or recurrent pelvic pain that persists despite confirmed endometriosis.
Why Does Pain Persist After Endometriosis Treatment?
While endometriosis lesions play a role, research suggests a more widespread response in the body contributes to EAP. This includes:
- Central and peripheral sensitisation: Increased activity in pelvic nerves sends stronger pain signals to the brain. This can be triggered not just by lesions but by a general sensitised state, like an overactive car alarm.
- Pelvic organ cross-talk: The bladder, bowel, and other pelvic organs share nerve pathways. When one organ is irritated, it can easily trigger pain in another.
- Pelvic floor and abdominal muscle dysfunction: Tight or tender pelvic floor muscles can contribute to pain and discomfort.
The Impact Goes Beyond Physical Pain
EAP can also be linked to:
- Mood swings, anxiety, and sleep problems: These factors can worsen pain perception and make it harder to cope.
- Co-existing pain conditions: Many women with endometriosis experience conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or bladder pain syndrome (BPS).
How Women's Physio Can Help You Manage Endometriosis-Associated Pain
Pelvic health Physiotherapists take a holistic approach, considering all the factors contributing to your pain.
Here’s what you can expect:
- Education about pain: Understanding how pain works empowers you to manage it more effectively.
- Movement and exercise therapy: Specific exercises improve flexibility, strength, and coordination in the pelvic floor and core.
- Mindfulness and stress management: Relaxation techniques can reduce pain perception and improve coping skills.
- Pelvic floor muscle treatment: This may involve techniques to relax tight muscles or improve coordination.
- Sleep hygiene: A physiotherapist can provide tips on improving sleep quality, which is essential for pain management.
- Dietary changes: Certain dietary modifications may help reduce inflammation and improve your overall health.
- Collaboration with other healthcare professionals: Physiotherapists often work with doctors and psychologists to ensure comprehensive care.
Living Well And Treating Endometriosis
Endometriosis can be a challenge, but a pelvic health physiotherapist can be a valuable partner in managing your symptoms and improving your quality of life.
They can help you move towards your goals, whether that’s reducing pain, improving bladder or bowel function, or simply feeling more comfortable in your own body.
Have a question about how Women’s Physiotherapists can help your Endometriosis? Get in touch and we can help you with advice on the best way forward to treat your specific condition and issues.
Alternatively you can book an appointment with Selph Women’s Physiotherapist, or read more here.