Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy for Endometriosis: Relief for Pain and Pelvic Health

Image used with permission from Pelvic Guru®, LLC www.pelvicglobal.com

What is endometriosis?

The endometrium is the lining of the uterus. Endometriosis occurs when endometrial-like cells are found outside the uterus. These cells can adhere to the bowels, bladder, ovaries, and fallopian tubes, causing inflammation and varying levels of pain.

What are typical endometriosis symptoms?

People who suffer from endometriosis can experience painful or even debilitating symptoms, such as: pelvic floor dysfunction, IBS, sensitization of the nervous system, painful bladder syndrome, back pain, painful sex and more. Endo is much more than a bad period.

Is endometriosis common?

It’s estimated that one in 10 women suffer from endometriosis. However, many patients with endometriosis are initially misdiagnosed and under-treated for years, so this number is likely low. It can take 10+ years (!) to receive a correct diagnosis.

How is endometriosis officially diagnosed?

Currently, the gold standard for diagnosing endometriosis is with excision surgery, where the endometrial tissue is found and removed from the body.

Myths vs. Facts

Myth #1: Periods are going to be painful and disrupt your daily life activities, so just grin and bear it.

Fact #1: Periods shouldn't be painful! If you are experiencing a disruption in your daily activities due to your menstrual cycle pain or cramping, talk to your medical provider and remember you may have to seek a second opinion.

Myth #2: Medication is the only way to manage symptoms of endometriosis.

Fact #2: A multifaceted approach may be helpful. For example, you may want to work with a dietician, physiatrist, excision specialist and a pelvic floor physical therapist. Email us if you’re looking for recommendations (info@bostonpelvicpt.com).

Myth #3: You’ll never get pregnant if you have endometriosis.

Fact #3: Endometriosis can affect fertility and make conceiving more challenging, but people with it are still able to have children (either with or without supportive interventions). Don’t lose hope!

What can I expect from a pelvic floor PT appointment?

In our sessions, we use hands-on therapy methods (kneading, stretching, massage, etc) to relieve muscle tension, loosen tight tissues and scar adhesions, align the body, enhance joint flexibility, and improve blood circulation. We also incorporate neuromuscular reeducation exercises to help retrain bladder, bowel, and sexual functions. Our goal, like yours, is pain relief. You should never have to settle for less!

Remember:

Unfortunately, people with endometriosis are frequently misdiagnosed and inadequately treated for years. If you’re experiencing symptoms that interfere with your daily life, speak with your doctor (and consider bringing a trusted friend or family member who can help you advocate for yourself). If the first one doesn’t take you seriously, find someone else. Endometriosis is real. Your pain is valid, and you deserve a healthcare provider who will hear you and work with you to find a solution.

If you’re in the Melrose, Massachusetts area, you can schedule a visit with us at www.bostonpelvicpt.com! If you’re further away, we recommend using www.pelvicrehab.com to find PFPTs closer to you.