Endometriosis: Causes, Symptoms, & Treatment in San Francisco

Endometriosis, a chronic inflammatory disease impacting roughly 1 in 10 individuals assigned female at birth, is characterized by a range of symptoms including painful periods and infertility. This diverse condition also includes numerous other indicators and overlapping pain conditions. A staggering 90% of individuals with endometriosis experience pelvic pain, underscoring the essential role of pelvic floor physical therapists in providing effective treatment.

Did You Know?

The highly trained physical therapists at PHRC are devoted to providing the best care for individuals with endometriosis. Jandra Mueller, from PHRC San Francisco, has created a groundbreaking course to empower physical therapists in better managing their patients’ needs. In a remarkable collaboration, Jandra has joined forces with the endometriosis advocacy group, iCareBetter, to launch “Endometriosis Unplugged,” a podcast exclusively focused on this condition.

Did You Know?

Symptoms of Endometriosis

Understanding the severity of symptoms in endometriosis can be confusing. It’s possible for people with mild cases to experience severe pain, while those with advanced cases may have mild or no symptoms. If you think you may have endometriosis, it’s crucial to seek medical help for accurate diagnosis and treatment. The symptoms can vary from person to person, but there are some common signs to look out for:

Painful periods: Discover the intense cramps, abdominal pain, and lower back pain that accompany this condition during menstrual cycles.
Pelvic pain: Experience discomfort not just during your period but also before or after it. The intensity can vary from mild to severe, affecting your daily life.
Pain during sex: It could be caused by endometriosis. This condition can cause discomfort during or after sexual intercourse, with the pain felt deep within the pelvis.
Pain during urination or bowel movements: It is common for some individuals, especially during their menstrual cycle, to feel discomfort while urinating or having a bowel movement.
Excessive bleeding: Discover if heavy menstrual bleeding or bleeding between periods could be signs of endometriosis.

Infertility: Endometriosis is a leading cause of infertility which can result in the development of adhesions and scar tissue. It can disrupt the proper functioning of reproductive organs.
Fatigue: Endometriosis often leads to persistent fatigue and low energy for many individuals.
Digestive Issues: Endometriosis may lead to gastrointestinal problems like bloating, constipation, diarrhea, and nausea, especially during menstruation.
Irritative Bladder Symptoms: People with endometriosis often suffer from urgent and frequent urination as well as pain, even when there is no infection present.

Chronic Overlapping Pain Syndromes

Vulvodynia – Persistent pain in the vulva.
Interstitial Cystitis/Painful Bladder Syndrome – Chronic pain in the bladder and urgent need to urinate.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome – Recurring abdominal pain and changes in bowel habits.
Pelvic Pain/Pelvic Floor Dysfunction – Chronic pain in the pelvis and problems with the muscles in the pelvic floor.
Endometriosis – Abnormal tissue growth outside the uterus leading to pelvic pain.

Chronic Overlapping Pain Syndromes

Vulvodynia – Persistent pain in the vulva.
Interstitial Cystitis/Painful Bladder Syndrome – Chronic pain in the bladder and urgent need to urinate.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome – Recurring abdominal pain and changes in bowel habits.
Pelvic Pain/Pelvic Floor Dysfunction – Chronic pain in the pelvis and problems with the muscles in the pelvic floor.
Endometriosis – Abnormal tissue growth outside the uterus leading to pelvic pain.

Endometriosis Requires a Multidisciplinary Approach

The delay in diagnosis for endometriosis can last 7-10 years, leading to increased chronic pain.

While initial treatments for symptom relief may cause other pelvic pain conditions, they can still effectively manage symptoms of endometriosis.

Pelvic pain and pelvic floor dysfunction affect 90% of individuals with endometriosis, and pelvic floor physical therapy can help with various associated symptoms.

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

Endometriosis Requires a Multidisciplinary Approach

The delay in diagnosis for endometriosis can last 7-10 years, leading to increased chronic pain.

While initial treatments for symptom relief may cause other pelvic pain conditions, they can still effectively manage symptoms of endometriosis.

Pelvic pain and pelvic floor dysfunction affect 90% of individuals with endometriosis, and pelvic floor physical therapy can help with various associated symptoms.

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

Surgical vs Non-surgical Options for Endometriosis

Diagnostic and Treatment Challenges

Laparoscopic surgery is the best choice for diagnosing and treating endometriosis. However, it can be difficult to find a specialist.
It’s important to note that even with successful surgery, there may still be other sources of pain that need to be addressed due to the similarities with other chronic pain conditions.

Diagnostic and Treatment Challenges

Laparoscopic surgery is the best choice for diagnosing and treating endometriosis. However, it can be difficult to find a specialist.
It’s important to note that even with successful surgery, there may still be other sources of pain that need to be addressed due to the similarities with other chronic pain conditions.

Endometriosis Treatment:
How We Can Help You

Do you suffer from chronic pain and discomfort caused by endometriosis? Our personalized pelvic floor physical therapy can help target the underlying causes and provide relief for your symptoms. Our services include:

Endometriosis Treatment:
How We Can Help You

1. Thorough Evaluation:

We’ll conduct a comprehensive assessment to identify the specific factors causing your symptoms and create a personalized treatment plan.

2. Hands-On Therapy:

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

3. Tailored Exercise:

We’ll guide you through targeted exercises that cater to your needs, promoting healing and preventing future issues.

4. Empowering Education:

We’ll equip you with knowledge and tools to manage your symptoms and maintain progress long after therapy sessions end.

5. Assessment and Planning:

Based on your medical history and objective findings, we help identify and address all sources of pain, utilizing manual therapy, exercises, education, and referrals to other specialists as needed.

6. Multidisciplinary Care:

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

Take Control of Your Pelvic Health Today

Don’t allow endometriosis to limit you any further. Experience the advantages of our expert pelvic floor physical therapy services and embark on the path to a healthier and happier future. Reach out to us today to book your first consultation and start your journey towards relief, recovery, and renewed self-assurance.

Take Control of Your Pelvic Health Today