Endometriosis: Causes, Symptoms, & Treatment in Berkeley

Endometriosis is a persistent and varied inflammatory disease primarily affecting individuals assigned female at birth. It is influenced by estrogen and is estimated to impact about 1 in 10 people. While painful periods and infertility are common symptoms, there are numerous other symptoms and related pain conditions associated with endometriosis. Pelvic pain is experienced by 90% of those with this condition, underscoring the importance of pelvic floor physical therapists in its effective treatment.

Did You Know?

The physical therapists at PHRC have received thorough continuing education to effectively assist individuals with endometriosis. Jandra Mueller from PHRC Berkeley created a unique course for physical therapists, aiming to enhance patient care and success. Jandra has also partnered with iCareBetter, an advocacy group for endometriosis, to launch a dedicated podcast called Endometriosis Unplugged.

Did You Know?

Symptoms of Endometriosis

When it comes to endometriosis, the severity of symptoms doesn’t always match the extent of the condition. This means that even people with mild endometriosis may experience severe pain, while those with advanced endometriosis may have mild symptoms or none at all. If you think you might have endometriosis, it’s crucial to see a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. The symptoms of endometriosis can vary from person to person, but some common signs to look out for include:

Painful periods: Women with endometriosis often endure intense cramps, abdominal pain, and lower back pain during their menstrual cycles.
Pelvic pain: Experience pain in your pelvis? It could happen before, during, or after your period. Whether it’s mild or severe, we understand the impact it can have.
Pain during intercourse: It could be due to endometriosis. This condition can cause deep pelvic pain during or after sexual intercourse.
Discomfort during urination or bowel movements: Individuals may feel pain while urinating or having a bowel movement, especially during their menstrual cycles.
Excessive bleeding: Endometriosis can cause heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia) or bleeding between periods (metrorrhagia), leading to excessive bleeding.

Infertility: Endometriosis is a significant factor contributing to infertility. It causes the development of adhesions and scar tissue that disrupt the optimal functioning of reproductive organs.
Fatigue: A significant number of individuals report consistently feeling tired and lacking energy.
Gastrointestinal Issues: Experience bloating, constipation, diarrhea, and nausea could be endometriosis, especially during your period.
Irritative Bladder Symptoms: People with endometriosis frequently suffer from urinary urgency, frequent urination, and pain, even when there is no infection present.

Common Chronic Overlapping Pain Syndromes:

Vulvodynia – Persistent vulvar pain.
Interstitial Cystitis/Painful Bladder Syndrome – Chronic bladder pain and urinary urgency.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome – Recurring abdominal pain and changes in bowel habits.
Pelvic Pain/Pelvic Floor Dysfunction – Chronic pain in the pelvis and dysfunction of the pelvic floor muscles.
Endometriosis – Abnormal tissue growth outside the uterus causing pelvic pain.

Common Chronic Overlapping Pain Syndromes:

Vulvodynia – Persistent vulvar pain.
Interstitial Cystitis/Painful Bladder Syndrome – Chronic bladder pain and urinary urgency.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome – Recurring abdominal pain and changes in bowel habits.
Pelvic Pain/Pelvic Floor Dysfunction – Chronic pain in the pelvis and dysfunction of the pelvic floor muscles.
Endometriosis – Abnormal tissue growth outside the uterus causing pelvic pain.

Endometriosis Requires a Multidisciplinary Approach

The average time it takes to diagnose endometriosis is 7-10 years, which can worsen chronic pain.

Some treatments that initially reduce symptoms may lead to other pelvic pain diagnoses, but they can still help manage symptoms of endometriosis.

90% of people with endometriosis experience pelvic pain or pelvic floor dysfunction, and pelvic floor physical therapy can help with many symptoms associated with the condition.

To achieve the best results, it’s crucial to address all sources of pain, not just the lesions associated with endometriosis.

Endometriosis Requires a Multidisciplinary Approach

The average time it takes to diagnose endometriosis is 7-10 years, which can worsen chronic pain.

Some treatments that initially reduce symptoms may lead to other pelvic pain diagnoses, but they can still help manage symptoms of endometriosis.

90% of people with endometriosis experience pelvic pain or pelvic floor dysfunction, and pelvic floor physical therapy can help with many symptoms associated with the condition.

To achieve the best results, it’s crucial to address all sources of pain, not just the lesions associated with endometriosis.

Surgical vs Non-surgical Options for Endometriosis

Diagnostic and Treatment Challenges

Laparoscopic surgery is the best choice for both diagnosing and treating endometriosis. However, finding a specialist for this procedure may be difficult.
It’s important to note that even after surgery, there may be other sources of pain that need to be addressed due to the similar symptoms of other chronic pain conditions.

Diagnostic and Treatment Challenges

Laparoscopic surgery is the best choice for both diagnosing and treating endometriosis. However, finding a specialist for this procedure may be difficult.
It’s important to note that even after surgery, there may be other sources of pain that need to be addressed due to the similar symptoms of other chronic pain conditions.

Endometriosis Treatment:
How We Can Help You

Experience personalized pelvic floor physical therapy to relieve chronic pain and improve your daily life. Our specialized approach targets the root causes of endometriosis symptoms, offering relief and enhanced functionality. Our services include:

Endometriosis Treatment:
How We Can Help You

1. Comprehensive Assessment:

We will thoroughly evaluate your symptoms to determine the specific factors causing them and create a personalized treatment plan.

2. Hands-On Therapy:

Our skilled therapists use hands-on techniques to release tight muscles, reduce inflammation, and improve blood flow to the affected areas.

3. Tailored Exercises:

We will guide you through exercises that are specifically designed for your needs, promoting healing and preventing future issues.

4. Empowering Education:

We will provide you with the knowledge and tools to manage your symptoms and maintain your progress even after your therapy sessions have ended.

5. Holistic Approach:

Based on your history and objective findings, we will identify and address all sources of pain to ensure the best outcomes. This may involve manual therapy, exercises, education, and referrals to other specialists if needed.

6. Collaborative Care Planning:

We understand that managing endometriosis requires a team of experts. We can provide resources and refer you to the appropriate professionals to address the various symptoms and related conditions often associated with endometriosis.

Take Control of Your Pelvic Health Today

Say goodbye to the limitations of endometriosis. Experience the advantages of our targeted pelvic floor physical therapy services and start your path to a healthier, more fulfilled life. Take the first step towards relief, recovery, and a boost in self-assurance by scheduling your initial consultation with us today.

Take Control of Your Pelvic Health Today