Endometriosis: Causes, Symptoms, & Treatment in Lexington, MA

Endometriosis is a chronic and diverse inflammatory disease, primarily caused by estrogen, that affects around 1 in 10 individuals assigned female at birth. While painful periods and infertility are commonly associated symptoms, there are numerous other symptoms and overlapping pain conditions linked to endometriosis. Pelvic pain is experienced by 90% of individuals with endometriosis, making pelvic floor physical therapists vital in its effective treatment.

Did You Know?

The physical therapists at PHRC have received comprehensive ongoing training to effectively assist individuals with endometriosis. Jandra Mueller of PHRC Lexington, MA created the first course for physical therapists aimed at helping patients better manage their care. Recently, Jandra partnered with iCareBetter, an endometriosis advocacy group, to launch Endometriosis Unplugged, a podcast entirely devoted to endometriosis.

Did You Know?

Symptoms of Endometriosis

Understanding the severity of endometriosis symptoms can be complex. It’s not always an accurate measure of the condition’s extent. Surprisingly, those with mild surgically confirmed endometriosis can experience severe pain, whereas individuals with advanced endometriosis may only have mild or no symptoms at all. If you suspect you have endometriosis, seeking medical advice is crucial for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. While the symptoms of endometriosis vary among individuals, there are some common signs to look out for.

Severe Period Pain: Endometriosis can cause intense cramping, abdominal pain, and lower back pain during menstrual cycles.
Pelvic Discomfort: Pain in the pelvic area can occur before, during, or after menstruation, ranging from mild to debilitating.
Painful Intercourse: Endometriosis can lead to deep pelvic pain during or after sexual intercourse.
Painful Urination and Bowel Movements: Some individuals experience pain while urinating or having a bowel movement, especially during their periods.
Abnormal Bleeding: Heavy menstrual bleeding or bleeding between periods may be signs of endometriosis.

Fertility Issues: Endometriosis can cause infertility by forming adhesions and scar tissue that disrupt normal reproductive organ function.
Chronic Fatigue: Many individuals with endometriosis report ongoing fatigue and low energy levels.
Digestive Problems: Endometriosis can lead to gastrointestinal symptoms such as bloating, constipation, diarrhea, and nausea, particularly around menstruation.
Bladder Discomfort: People with endometriosis often experience urinary urgency alongside other symptoms.

Chronic Overlapping Pain Syndromes

Vulvodynia: Persistent pain in the external female genitalia (vulva).
Interstitial Cystitis/Painful Bladder Syndrome: Continuous pain and discomfort in the bladder.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Chronic abdominal pain and bowel dysfunction.
Pelvic Pain/Pelvic Floor Dysfunction: Constant pain in the pelvic area and problems with pelvic floor muscles.
Endometriosis: Tissue similar to the uterus lining growing outside the uterus, resulting in pain.

Chronic Overlapping Pain Syndromes

Vulvodynia: Persistent pain in the external female genitalia (vulva).
Interstitial Cystitis/Painful Bladder Syndrome: Continuous pain and discomfort in the bladder.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Chronic abdominal pain and bowel dysfunction.
Pelvic Pain/Pelvic Floor Dysfunction: Constant pain in the pelvic area and problems with pelvic floor muscles.
Endometriosis: Tissue similar to the uterus lining growing outside the uterus, resulting in pain.

Endometriosis Requires a Multidisciplinary Approach

The delay in diagnosing endometriosis can last anywhere from 7 to 10 years, which can worsen chronic pain.

Sometimes, the initial treatments used to reduce symptoms may actually contribute to other pelvic pain conditions, even though they may still help manage symptoms in endometriosis.

Pelvic pain or pelvic floor dysfunction is present in 90% of individuals with endometriosis, and pelvic floor physical therapy can help with many of the associated symptoms.

To achieve the best possible outcome, it is important to address all sources of pain, as treating the lesions is just one part of meeting the needs of these individuals.

Endometriosis Requires a Multidisciplinary Approach

The delay in diagnosing endometriosis can last anywhere from 7 to 10 years, which can worsen chronic pain.

Sometimes, the initial treatments used to reduce symptoms may actually contribute to other pelvic pain conditions, even though they may still help manage symptoms in endometriosis.

Pelvic pain or pelvic floor dysfunction is present in 90% of individuals with endometriosis, and pelvic floor physical therapy can help with many of the associated symptoms.

To achieve the best possible outcome, it is important to address all sources of pain, as treating the lesions is just one part of meeting the needs of these individuals.

Surgical vs Non-surgical Options for Endometriosis

Diagnostic and Treatment Challenges

Laparoscopic surgery is the best choice for both diagnosing endometriosis and treating lesions through excision surgery. However, it can be challenging to find a specialist in this field.
Additionally, it’s important to note that even with successful surgery, there may be other sources of pain that need to be addressed due to the overlap with other chronic pain conditions.

Diagnostic and Treatment Challenges

Laparoscopic surgery is the best choice for both diagnosing endometriosis and treating lesions through excision surgery. However, it can be challenging to find a specialist in this field.
Additionally, it’s important to note that even with successful surgery, there may be other sources of pain that need to be addressed due to the overlap with other chronic pain conditions.

Endometriosis Treatment:
How We Can Help You

Our personalized pelvic floor physical therapy targets the root causes of your endometriosis symptoms, providing relief and improved daily functionality. Our services include:

Endometriosis Treatment:
How We Can Help You

Our personalized pelvic floor physical therapy targets the root causes of your endometriosis symptoms, providing relief and improved daily functionality. Our services include:

1. Thorough Evaluation:

Receive a comprehensive assessment to pinpoint the causes of your symptoms and receive a personalized treatment plan.

2. Hands-on Therapy:

Our skilled therapists use manual techniques to relax tight muscles, reduce inflammation, and enhance blood flow to affected areas.

3. Therapeutic Exercises:

Engage in targeted exercises tailored to your needs, facilitating healing and preventing future problems.

4. Knowledge and Support:

Gain the understanding and tools necessary to manage your symptoms long-term, even after your therapy sessions conclude.

5. Customized Plan:

Based on your history and objective findings, we address all sources of pain to provide the most effective results. This may involve manual therapy, exercises, education, and referrals to other specialists.

6. Multidisciplinary Approach:

Recognizing that managing endometriosis requires a team effort, we offer resources and referrals to address the various symptoms and conditions associated with endometriosis.

Take Control of Your Pelvic Health Today

Overcome endometriosis with our specialized pelvic floor physical therapy. Start your journey to a healthier future today. Contact us to schedule your initial consultation and find relief, recovery, and renewed confidence.

Take Control of Your Pelvic Health Today