Endometriosis: Causes, Symptoms, & Treatment in Merrimack, NH

Endometriosis, a chronic inflammatory disease influenced by estrogen, affects around 1 in 10 people assigned female at birth. While painful periods and infertility are commonly associated symptoms, endometriosis also causes other symptoms and overlaps with various pain conditions. Pelvic pain is experienced by 90% of individuals with endometriosis, and the involvement of pelvic floor physical therapists is crucial in treating the condition effectively.

Did You Know?

The physical therapists at PHRC have received extensive education to effectively assist individuals with endometriosis. Jandra Mueller, a therapist at PHRC Merrimack, NH, created the first course for physical therapists to improve patient care. In collaboration with iCareBetter, an endometriosis advocacy group, Jandra has launched a dedicated podcast called Endometriosis Unplugged.

Did You Know?

Symptoms of Endometriosis

It’s crucial to understand that the severity of symptoms does not always match the extent of the condition. Individuals with mild surgically confirmed endometriosis may experience severe pain, while others with more advanced endometriosis might have only mild or no symptoms at all. If you suspect you have endometriosis, it is important to seek medical advice for accurate diagnosis and treatment. Symptoms of endometriosis differ from person to person, but some common signs include:

Severe pain during periods: Endometriosis can cause intense cramping, abdominal pain, and lower back pain during menstrual cycles.
Pelvic pain throughout the month: Endometriosis can result in pelvic pain not only during menstruation but also before or after it. The pain can range from mild to debilitating.
Painful intercourse: Endometriosis can lead to pain during or after sexual intercourse, felt deep within the pelvis.
Discomfort while urinating or having bowel movements: Some individuals may experience pain while urinating or having a bowel movement, particularly during their periods.
Abnormal bleeding: Endometriosis can cause heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia) or bleeding between periods (metrorrhagia).

Possible infertility: Endometriosis is a common cause of infertility as it can create adhesions and scar tissue that interfere with reproductive organ function.
Chronic Fatigue: Many individuals with endometriosis report experiencing constant fatigue and low energy levels.
Digestive problems: Endometriosis can result in gastrointestinal symptoms like bloating, constipation, diarrhea, and nausea, especially during menstruation.
Urinary urgency: Those with endometriosis often experience a simultaneous urgent need to urinate.

Chronic Overlapping Pain Syndromes

Vulvodynia – Long-lasting pain in the external female genitalia (vulva).
Interstitial Cystitis/Painful Bladder Syndrome – Persistent pain and discomfort in the bladder.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome – Chronic abdominal pain and bowel dysfunction.
Pelvic Pain/Pelvic Floor Dysfunction – Continuous pain in the pelvic area and dysfunction of the pelvic floor muscles.
Endometriosis – A condition where tissue similar to the uterus lining grows outside the uterus, leading to pain.

Chronic Overlapping Pain Syndromes

Vulvodynia – Long-lasting pain in the external female genitalia (vulva).
Interstitial Cystitis/Painful Bladder Syndrome – Persistent pain and discomfort in the bladder.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome – Chronic abdominal pain and bowel dysfunction.
Pelvic Pain/Pelvic Floor Dysfunction – Continuous pain in the pelvic area and dysfunction of the pelvic floor muscles.
Endometriosis – A condition where tissue similar to the uterus lining grows outside the uterus, leading to pain.

Endometriosis Requires a Multidisciplinary Approach

The delay in diagnosing endometriosis typically lasts for 7-10 years, worsening chronic pain.

While first-line therapies may help relieve symptoms, they can potentially lead to other pelvic pain diagnoses. However, they can still effectively manage symptoms related to endometriosis.

Pelvic pain and pelvic floor dysfunction are prevalent in 90% of individuals with endometriosis. Pelvic floor physical therapy can effectively alleviate a range of symptoms associated with this condition.

To achieve the best possible outcome, it is crucial to address all sources of pain, not just focus on treating the lesions.

Endometriosis Requires a Multidisciplinary Approach

The delay in diagnosing endometriosis typically lasts for 7-10 years, worsening chronic pain.

While first-line therapies may help relieve symptoms, they can potentially lead to other pelvic pain diagnoses. However, they can still effectively manage symptoms related to endometriosis.

To achieve the best possible outcome, it is crucial to address all sources of pain, not just focus on treating the lesions.

Surgical vs Non-surgical Options for Endometriosis

Diagnostic and Treatment Challenges

Laparoscopic surgery is the preferred choice for diagnosing and treating endometriosis. However, it can be difficult to find a specialist who can perform this procedure.
Additionally, even after surgery, there may be other sources of pain that need to be addressed due to the similarities between endometriosis and other chronic pain conditions.

Diagnostic and Treatment Challenges

Laparoscopic surgery is the preferred choice for diagnosing and treating endometriosis. However, it can be difficult to find a specialist who can perform this procedure.
Additionally, even after surgery, there may be other sources of pain that need to be addressed due to the similarities between endometriosis and other chronic pain conditions.

Endometriosis Treatment:
How We Can Help You

Endometriosis is a condition that causes ongoing pain, discomfort, and various symptoms that disrupt your daily routine. Our specialized pelvic floor physical therapy is designed to address the underlying causes of your discomfort and provide relief and better functionality. We offer a range of services including:

Endometriosis Treatment:
How We Can Help You

1. Thorough Assessment:

Our team will conduct a comprehensive evaluation to pinpoint the specific factors causing your symptoms. From there, we’ll develop a personalized treatment plan just for you.

2. Hands-on Therapy:

Our skilled therapists use manual techniques to relieve muscle tension, reduce inflammation, and improve blood circulation in the affected areas.

3. Targeted Exercises:

We’ll guide you through exercises tailored to your specific needs. These exercises will not only promote healing but also help prevent future problems.

4. Empowering Education:

We believe in equipping our patients with the knowledge and tools to manage their symptoms on their own. You’ll receive comprehensive education to maintain your progress long-term, even after your therapy sessions are over.

5. Comprehensive Assessment and Plan:

After reviewing your history and objective findings, we’ll identify and address all possible sources of pain. This could involve manual therapy, exercises, education, or referrals to other experts who specialize in mental health, pain management, or endometriosis surgery.

6. Integrated Care Planning:

We understand that managing endometriosis requires a multidisciplinary approach. That’s why we provide resources and appropriate referrals to address the various symptoms and related conditions that often accompany endometriosis.

Take Control of Your Pelvic Health Today

Find relief from endometriosis through our tailored pelvic floor physical therapy services. Take the first step towards a brighter tomorrow. Reach out to us today to book your introductory consultation and reclaim your self-assurance.Find relief from endometriosis through our tailored pelvic floor physical therapy services. Take the first step towards a brighter tomorrow. Reach out to us today to book your introductory consultation and reclaim your self-assurance.

Take Control of Your Pelvic Health Today