Endometriosis:
Causes, Symptoms, & Treatment

Endometriosis is a chronic, heterogenous inflammatory disease that is mediated by estrogen and is estimated to affect approximately 1 in 10 people assigned female at birth. Painful periods (dysmenorrhea) and infertility are often the symptoms most commonly associated, though there are many other symptoms and overlapping pain conditions that are associated with endometriosis. Ninety percent of those with endometriosis experience pelvic pain, and pelvic floor physical therapists play an integral role in the successful treatment of endometriosis.

Did You Know?

The physical therapists at PHRC have undergone extensive continuing education to best help people with endometriosis. Jandra Mueller of PHRC Encinitas developed the first course for physical therapists to help patients manage their care more effectively and successfully. Jandra recently teamed up with iCareBetter, an endometriosis advocacy group, to start Endometriosis Unplugged, a podcast dedicated solely to endometriosis.

Did You Know?

Symptoms of Endometriosis

It’s important to note that the severity of symptoms doesn’t always correlate with the extent of the condition. Some people with mild surgically confirmed endometriosis may experience severe pain, while others with more advanced endometriosis might have only mild symptoms or none at all. If you suspect you may have endometriosis, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment. The symptoms of endometriosis vary from person to person, however some common signs include:

Painful periods (dysmenorrhea): Those with endometriosis often experience severe cramping, abdominal pain, and lower back pain during their menstrual cycles.
Pelvic pain: Pelvic pain may occur not only during menstruation but also before or after it. The severity of pain can range from mild to debilitating.
Pain during intercourse (dyspareunia): Endometriosis can cause pain during or after sexual intercourse, which may be felt deep within the pelvis.
Pain during urination or bowel movements: Some experience pain while urinating or having a bowel movement, particularly during their periods.
Excessive bleeding: Heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia) or bleeding between periods (metrorrhagia) can be symptoms of endometriosis.

Infertility: Endometriosis is a common cause of infertility, as it can lead to the formation of adhesions and scar tissue that can interfere with the normal function of reproductive organs.
Fatigue: Many report experiencing chronic fatigue and low energy levels.
Digestive issues: Endometriosis can cause gastrointestinal symptoms such as bloating, constipation, diarrhea, and nausea, particularly around menstruation.
Irritative bladder symptoms: Those with endometriosis often experience simultaneous urinary urgency, frequency and pain in the absence of infection.

Chronic Overlapping Pain Syndromes

Vulvodynia
Interstitial Cystitis/Painful Bladder Syndrome
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Pelvic Pain/Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
Endometriosis

Chronic Overlapping Pain Syndromes

Vulvodynia
Interstitial Cystitis/Painful Bladder Syndrome
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Pelvic Pain/Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
Endometriosis

Endometriosis Requires a Multidisciplinary Approach

The average delay in diagnosis is 7-10 years, which can further exacerbate chronic pain.

Often, first-line therapies for symptom reduction may contribute to other pelvic pain diagnoses, though may be effective for symptom management in endometriosis.

90% of those with endometriosis have pelvic pain/pelvic floor dysfunction, and pelvic floor PT can address a number of symptoms associated with endometriosis.

It is important to address all pain generators, addressing the lesions is only one aspect of addressing the needs of these individuals for the best outcome possible.

Endometriosis Requires a Multidisciplinary Approach

The average delay in diagnosis is 7-10 years, which can further exacerbate chronic pain.

Often, first-line therapies for symptom reduction may contribute to other pelvic pain diagnoses, though may be effective for symptom management in endometriosis.

90% of those with endometriosis have pelvic pain/pelvic floor dysfunction, and pelvic floor PT can address a number of symptoms associated with endometriosis.

It is important to address all pain generators, addressing the lesions is only one aspect of addressing the needs of these individuals for the best outcome possible.

Surgical vs Non-surgical Options for Endometriosis

Diagnostic and Treatment Challenges

Laparoscopic surgery for both diagnosis of endometriosis and treatment of lesions with excision surgery is the preferred option, though finding a specialist may be a challenge for many.
Because of the significant overlap between other chronic overlapping pain conditions, even with the best surgery, there may be other pain generators present that still need to be addressed.

Diagnostic and Treatment Challenges

Laparoscopic surgery for both diagnosis of endometriosis and treatment of lesions with excision surgery is the preferred option, though finding a specialist may be a challenge for many.
Because of the significant overlap between other chronic overlapping pain conditions, even with the best surgery, there may be other pain generators present that still need to be addressed.

Endometriosis Treatment:
How We Can Help You

Endometriosis can cause chronic pain, discomfort, and a host of other symptoms that interfere with daily life. Our personalized approach to pelvic floor physical therapy aims at targeting the root causes of your discomfort, offering relief and improved functionality. Our services include:

Endometriosis Treatment:
How We Can Help You

1. Comprehensive Evaluation:

We’ll conduct a thorough assessment to identify the specific factors contributing to your symptoms and design a customized treatment plan.

2. Manual Therapy:

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

3. Therapeutic Exercise:

We’ll guide you through targeted exercises specific to your needs, promoting healing and helping to prevent future issues.

4. Patient Education:

We’ll empower you with knowledge and tools to manage your symptoms and maintain your progress long after your therapy sessions have ended.

5. Assessment and Plan:

Based on your history and objective findings, we help to identify and address all of the pain generators to give you the best outcomes. This may include manual therapy, exercises, education, and/or referrals to other specialists including mental health experts, pain management, endometriosis surgeons.

6. Multidisciplinary Care Planning:

We understand that managing endometriosis is multifactorial and relies on a team of knowledgeable professionals, we will be able to provide resources and appropriate referrals to address the myriad of symptoms and overlapping conditions that are often involved with endometriosis.

Take Control of Your Pelvic Health Today

Don’t let endometriosis hold you back any longer. Discover the benefits of our specialized pelvic floor physical therapy services and take the first step toward a healthier, happier future. Contact us today to schedule your initial consultation and begin your journey to relief, recovery, and renewed confidence.

Take Control of Your Pelvic Health Today