If you’re dealing with pain and inflammation from endometriosis, you’re not alone. About 1 in 10 women and girls deal with this condition, which is caused by tissue that behaves like the uterus lining but grows outside of the uterus. During a woman’s menstrual cycle, it grows and sheds but has no place to exit the body, leading to symptoms that can be severe and disrupt daily life.
In addition to seeking medical treatment, there are several ways you can reduce the severity of endometriosis symptoms by changing your day-to-day habits. If you’re interested in seeing how these tips can help you, read on!
In recent years, researchers have found that eating the right foods may have an impact on endometriosis. This disease is linked with inflammation, prostaglandin metabolism (hormones that contribute to regulating menstruation), and estrogen activity, so foods that affect these processes are key. To start seeing how diet affects your symptoms, start with these steps:
A 2021 study found that 44% of participants who tried dietary changes reported an average score of 6.4 out of 10 effectiveness for reducing pelvic pain. Talk with a doctor to see how you can develop a meal plan that is right for you.
Endometriosis certainly can contribute to stress, but stress itself is a factor that can worsen endometriosis symptoms. Stop this cycle by taking proactive steps to center yourself and reduce stress in your life where you can. Try a few of these stress-relieving tactics and see what works for you:
Many people with endometriosis have trouble getting a restful night of sleep. Unfortunately, a study from 2020 found that poor sleep in women with endometriosis led to increased depression, bladder pain, and a worse overall quality of life. However, practicing good sleep hygiene habits can help. Try incorporating the following into your routine:
If you’re experiencing pain, working out is probably the last thing on your to-do list. But being active for just 30 minutes a day can make an impact on endometriosis symptoms. Some of the benefits of routine exercise include:
It generally takes four to seven years for a person with endometriosis to be diagnosed, and many people may feel lost and confused while struggling to understand what’s going on with their health. It may stress your relationships, and many people report difficulties with their sex life, social life, and finances due to symptoms and related issues. It’s important to know that you’re not alone. Whether it’s having a candid, open conversation with your partner or seeking help from a counselor or support group, you can take proactive steps to ease the burden of endometriosis and have an enjoyable, fulfilling life.
These tips can help your day-to-day life, but remember to consider the help of a medical team, as well. With issues like difficulty getting pregnant, severe pain, and overall decreased quality of life, it’s important to get treatment for endometriosis. Whether you’re looking for help with infertility due to endometriosis or just general symptom relief, our OBGYNs at St. Luke's Health have the tools and experience to help. Find a doctor and get started today.
Sources:
Tips for Living With Endometriosis | Healthline
How To Cope With Endometriosis | Medical News Today
Endo and Me: Tips From Women Who Know | Healthgrades
Dietary Practices of Women with Endometriosis: A Cross-Sectional Survey | National Library of Medicine
A Quantitative Analysis of Sleep Quality in Women with Endometriosis | National Library of Medicine