Living Well with Endo

If you are a part of the 1 in 10 women who have endometriosis, we pray that you have found your way to a knowledgeable and supportive community to help you live well post diagnosis. (www.endometriosis.org). While we cannot provide medical guidance, we will continue to share with you information from trusted sources that may equip you to ask the right questions and seek the help you need. If you suspect that you may have more than a period and would like to seek medical attention, we refer you to last week's blog post.

Endometriosis does not yet have a cure. However, there are treatments and other resources available to help you cope with the symptoms. Consult your health professional to receive support in determining the best course of action for your care. Your care will likely require a team of experts.

Hormonal Treatment
​Whereas the cause of endometriosis is still unknown, oestrogen is known to be a major contributing factor to the intensity of endometriosis and its symptoms. "Hormonal treatments for endometriosis are designed to attempt to temper oestrogen production in a woman’s body.  Hormonal therapy is used to suppress the menstrual period to prevent the monthly bleeding." (www.endometriosis.org). 

Surgical Treatment
Laparoscopy is a minor surgical procedure, which is  the only current way to get a definitive diagnosis. It is also possible to have treatment applied during the process of diagnosis. (www.endometriosis.org). 
 
Pain Relief
"Non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs) may help and are contained in period pain medication. If your pain is not manageable, discuss this with your doctor." (Jean Hailes for Women's Health, Understanding Endometriosis).

Emotional Support
It can take several years to confirm a diagnosis of endometriosis because of the conflation of its symptoms with that of a bad period and the effects of gender based discrimination in medical care. All of this to say, that the path to diagnosis can itself cause significant emotional stress. Additionally, the symptoms can create much disruption to the lives of women, causing a negative impact on their relationship to self, others and work. This is why seeking counseling and a community of persons who can walk this unique journey with you are important. 

Search the Psychology Today database for a Christian counselor here. 

For an endo-support group consider searching here.

Overall Health
Exercise can play a key role in helping you to live well with endometriosis. Consider seeking guidance from a professional physical therapist, who can collaboratively develop an exercise program that helps to mitigate painful symptoms. You may start your search to  find one here.  You should be careful to read their qualifications to determine if specific experience with endometriosis or pelvic floor rehabilitation have been mentioned. Also, consider  the experiences of other patients by reading reviews of their care.

Diet is also essential to living well post diagnosis. Consider developing a plan with a registered dietician. You can begin your search here. Once again, you should be careful to read their qualifications to determine if they have specific experience with endometriosis care. Also, consider the experiences of other patients by reading reviews of their care.

Happy temple building!

Take care. Bless many.