What is Endometriosis?

Endometriosis is a complex and multifactorial disease that affects 1 in 9 Australian women. It occurs when tissue similar to that found in the uterus grows in other areas of the body, often involving multiple organs such as the bowel, bladder, ovaries, appendix and, in some cases, the lungs or diaphragm.

The exact cause is unknown but current research supports the view that endometriosis is an inflammatory condition with potential immune system dysregulation. It was previously viewed solely as a hormonal disease and the only treatment that was often prescribed was surgery and hormonal therapy. There is still such a lack of awareness, knowledge, funding, research and support around endometriosis.

Key facts about endometriosis:

• Endometriosis affects the whole body, it is not just a reproductive disease or a painful period

• The average diagnosis time is 8-10 years from onset of symptoms. Women are often dismissed for years, misdiagnosed or left undiagnosed.

• There is currently no known cure but there are many ways to help manage symptoms

• A standard pelvic ultrasound cannot diagnose endometriosis but ‘deep infiltrative endometriosis’ (DIE) scans performed by a gynaecologist have been shown to detect endo lesions in some women. But unfortunately, endometriosis can only be officially diagnosed via laparoscopic surgery.

• Endometriosis is listed as one of the top 20 most painful medical conditions

Common symptoms of endometriosis:

• Abdominal pain

• Low back & pelvic pain

• Nerve pain

• Leg & hip pain

• Severe bloating

• Nausea & vomiting

• Brain fog

• Depression and anxiety

• Chronic fatigue

• Memory problems

• Insomnia

• Headaches & migraines

• Dizziness & fainting

• Painful & heavy periods

• Immune system dysfunction

• Chronic pain

• Fibromyalgia

• Vulvodynia

• Pain with sexual intercourse

• Pain with bowel movements & urination

• Diarrhoea & constipation

• IBS & other digestive complaints (reflux, heartburn, loss of appetite)

• Food intolerances

• Infertility

Women with endometriosis often experience severe pain and many of the above symptoms on a daily basis - not just while menstruating. Although there is currently no cure for endometriosis yet, having a diagnosis can help in symptom management. There are ALWAYS things you can do to improve symptoms!

How can osteopathy help?

With a complex condition like endometriosis, it is vital to take a holistic and multifactorial approach to this disease. It is important to find a yourself a team of supportive and skilled medical practitioners that are going to support your individual needs.

As osteopaths, we consider the whole body - how all of the systems interrelate and function together. When treating a woman with endometriosis, we will consider how the musculoskeletal, reproductive, gastrointestinal, respiratory and nervous systems all interact as a holistic unit.

Endometrial lesions often cause adhesions and scar tissue within the within the pelvic and abdominal cavity, and in some cases the thoracic cage. These adhesions influence how the organs, fascia, nerves, connective tissue and joints are able to move and function.

Osteopathy has been shown to reduce chronic pelvic pain by decreasing pelvic floor tension, improving breathing mechanics, influencing the ligaments that support your organs and improving mobility of the hips, low back, pelvis and rib cage. Improved function of the musculoskeletal system and nervous system improves pain levels, increases blood flow, decreases inflammation and aids in tissue healing. Osteopaths can also prescribe self-management strategies, home strength and mobility exercises, breathing techniques, tools to support sleep, stress management and ergonomic advice.

Benefits of a multidisciplinary support team:

It is important to find a GP who has in interest in women’s health or chronic pain and a good gynaecologist who specializes in endometriosis and has experience with laparoscopic excision surgery. Its is vital to consider addressing lifestyle factors like diet, exercise, sleep patterns and stress management. An osteopath, physiotherapist, acupuncturist, psychologist and naturopath/nutritionist are great additions to your support team.

Keep any eye out for more blog post about some great management techniques in the near future!

Article written by Dr Emma Berry (Osteopath)