Skip to main content

You Don't Have to Suffer with Endometriosis Pain; We Can Help

You Don't Have to Suffer with Endometriosis Pain; We Can Help

Endometriosis is a gynecologic condition that occurs when the tissue that normally lines the inside of your uterus starts growing outside it. It affects about 11% of women of reproductive age, and it has the power to significantly impact your quality of life.

Not all women with endometriosis experience pain, but it’s the most common symptom by far. The pain can range from mild to debilitating — and if you have endometriosis, you deserve to find treatment that works.

  1. Michael Coppa, MD, and our team can help. We specialize in gynecology care, and in this blog, we explore the common types of endometriosis pain and what you can do to find relief.

Common types of endometriosis pain

Endometriosis varies in severity, and different women can experience very different symptoms.

The pain from endometriosis can manifest in several ways, including:

Although it’s not a type of physical pain, endometriosis can also cause infertility. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, you don’t have to keep suffering.

Your treatment options for endometriosis

Living with endometriosis can be challenging, and you shouldn’t try to ignore or simply suffer through your symptoms. Dr. Coppa offers several different treatments for endometriosis pain.

The best treatment (or combination of treatments) for you depends on the severity of your symptoms and your overall health. We start with a comprehensive exam, review your symptoms, then develop a treatment plan to help you start feeling better.

Here are some of the most common treatment options for endometriosis pain:

Lifestyle changes

A few lifestyle habits can help you manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. Start by maintaining a healthy diet and exercising regularly. If you have acute pelvic pain or cramping, use a hot water bottle or heating pad to lessen the pain.

For some women, stress makes inflammation and endometriosis pain worse. Get in the habit of practicing relaxation techniques, like meditation or deep breathing, to manage your stress levels.

Pain medication

Over-the-counter pain medication like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help alleviate endometriosis pain. But they only provide temporary relief and may not be effective for severe endometriosis pain.

Hormone therapy

Hormone therapy can help regulate your menstrual cycle and reduce the growth of endometrial tissue. Depending on your needs, Dr. Coppa may recommend hormonal birth control like the pill or an intrauterine device (IUD), progesterone therapy, or gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist therapy.

Physical therapy

Sometimes, pelvic muscle tension or weakness can worsen endometriosis pain. In these cases, physical therapy can be an effective way to manage your pain. 

Dr. Coppa may recommend working with a physical therapist to strengthen your pelvic floor muscles, improve your core strength, and reduce pain.

Complementary and alternative medicine

Several complementary and alternative medicine approaches show promise in managing endometriosis pain. These methods include:

If you’re curious about trying alternative medicine, talk with Dr. Coppa beforehand. Some supplements can interfere with other medications.

Surgery

Most women find relief from their endometriosis pain with a combination of the above treatments. But in some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove endometrial tissue or cysts that have formed. Dr. Coppa uses robotic surgery, a minimally invasive method, to remove the inflamed tissue and treat your endometriosis.

Endometriosis pain can be difficult to manage, but you’re not alone. Dr. Coppa and our team are here to help you find an endometriosis treatment plan that alleviates your pain and improves your quality of life.

Call one of our offices in Cranston, Providence, or Smithfield, Rhode Island, or request your first appointment online now.

You Might Also Enjoy...

5 Important Facts About Depo-Provera

Depo-Provera® is a birth control option that offers long-lasting protection with no daily maintenance. If you’re considering this birth control shot, here are five key facts to help you make the right decision for your health and your lifestyle.
How to Prevent Vaginal Atrophy After Menopause

How to Prevent Vaginal Atrophy After Menopause

Vaginal atrophy is common after menopause, but that doesn’t mean it’s inevitable. Discover how to safeguard your sexual health with strategies that alleviate symptoms and help you maintain better vaginal wellness.

5 Treatable Causes of Vaginal Bleeding

Vaginal bleeding is unavoidable if you’re menstruating, but heavy, irregular, or otherwise unusual bleeding can be cause for concern. Fortunately, treatment can help manage your symptoms. Here’s what you need to know.