Endometriosis treatment options
“Living with endometriosis can be an incredibly challenging and isolating experience. From managing daily activities to maintaining relationships and pursuing career goals, endometriosis can feel like a constant, invisible battle.”
What is endometriosis?
Endometriosis treatment options
Your general practitioner (GP) or gynaecologist is the primary person to consult about treatment options for endometriosis. However, if your healthcare provider does not consider a holistic approach, achieving symptom relief will not be possible. It's becoming increasingly clear that a solely biomedical approach to pelvic pain does not provide the best outcomes for many patients.
A biopsychosocial 'whole-person' or holistic approach that leverages the expertise of a multidisciplinary team is crucial for effective symptom management. This comprehensive method, long advocated by social workers, addresses the complex interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors in patient care.
Who could be on your team?
GP: A GP can provide an initial diagnosis, prescribe medications for pain relief, and refer you to specialists for further treatment.
Gynaecologist: A gynaecologist can offer specialised treatment options, including hormonal therapies and surgical interventions, to manage your endometriosis. It is important to have a gynaecologist who specialises in pelvic pain and endometriosis.
Nurse: A nurse can provide ongoing support and education about managing symptoms and treatment plans, ensuring continuity of care.
Physiotherapist and/or pelvic physiotherapist: A physiotherapist or pelvic physiotherapist can develop personalised exercise and rehabilitation programmes to alleviate pain, release pelvic spasms and tension and improve pelvic function.
Dietitians: Dietitians can create tailored dietary plans to reduce inflammation and manage symptoms through nutrition.
Mental Health Professional (Social Worker, Counsellor, Psychologist): Mental health professionals can offer counselling and support to address the emotional and psychological impact of endometriosis and pain, helping you cope with chronic pain and stress.
Exercise Physiologist: An exercise physiologist can design safe and effective exercise routines to improve overall physical health and reduce pelvic pain.
Gastroenterologist: A gastroenterologist can manage gastrointestinal symptoms often associated with endometriosis, such as IBS, ensuring a comprehensive approach to care.
The key person in your team is your GP so that they can ensure continuity of care across your team. There are endometriosis clinics around Australia that offer this type of approach where the multi-disciplinary team meet to discuss your case and work together to find a way forward.
Your path to relief
Endometriosis is a complex condition that can cause severe pain, heavy menstrual bleeding, and other debilitating symptoms. The physical pain is often accompanied by emotional distress, including feelings of frustration, helplessness, and isolation. It's important to address both the physical, emotional, and social aspects of endometriosis to achieve holistic healing. To learn more about managing chronic illness and chronic pain please click here.
If you're living with endometriosis and seeking ways to manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life, I'm here to help. Together, we can develop a personalised plan that addresses the physical, emotional, and social aspects of your condition. Relief is possible, and it starts with taking the first step towards comprehensive care.
I invite you to book a free initial consultation to discuss your endometriosis and explore how I can help you achieve relief. If you need support managing mental distress, visit the resources tab for guided meditations that can assist in promoting calm and relaxation.
Let's work together to improve your quality of life.
“I understand how overwhelming and exhausting this journey can be, and I want you to know that you are not alone. Your struggles are real, and your strength in facing them is remarkable. Together, we can navigate this journey, find ways to manage the pain, and work towards a life that honours your resilience and courage.”
— Jo — Collective Care with Jo