Endometriosis and Treatment With Pelvic Health Therapy

Endometriosis affects 1 in 10 Women or nearly 10% of reproductive aged women worldwide. Despite this being a common, chronic condition, it takes a woman an average of 4 to 12 months to receive a diagnosis.  

Endometriosis is a condition that happens when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside of the uterus and on other areas in the body where it doesn't belong.  Endometriosis most commonly occurs in the pelvis but in some women, it can occur in other areas of the body, including the abdomen and chest. 

Most often, endometriosis is found on the: 

• Ovaries
• Tissues that hold the uterus in place
• Fallopian Tubes
• Outer surface of the uterus

Common symptoms can include:

• Pelvic Pain

• Painful Periods

• Pain during intercourse

• Heavy Bleeding

• GI and Urinary Symptoms

• Fatigue

• Infertility

Diagnosis

Laparoscopy is a type of surgery that doctors can use to look inside the pelvic area to see endometrial tissue. Surgery is the only way to be sure you have endometriosis. Sometimes doctors can diagnose endometriosis just by seeing the growths. Other times, they may need to take a small sample of tissue and study it under a microscope to confirm this.

Treatment and Management Options

Once an endometriosis diagnosis is determined, pelvic floor therapy can be utilized to help manage symptoms and pain. Pelvic floor therapy for endometriosis may include: 

• Abdominal and visceral mobilizations can help to break up scar tissue, adhesions, improve GI health and constipation, improve bloat and distention. 

• Pelvic floor internal work can work to release tension, tender points, or overactivity that causes pain.

• Learning to use tools such as dilators or pelvic wands to help decrease painful intercourse. 

• Help with pain management techniques for nervous system regulation.  

• Stretching protocols for tight pelvic floor muscles and accessory muscles. 

Endometriosis may cause abdominal, pelvic or even back pain due to reactive pelvic floor muscle spasms, inflamed nerves or tight fascia. But there are options to help manage and improve the pain. 

We are here to help, speak to your provider today to get a referral to be evaluated by a Pelvic Floor Therapist. Click here to learn more about Pelvic Health Therapy or call 724-477-3025.