Osteopathy

Chronic Pelvic Pain: Endometriosis

Chronic pelvic pain is a condition that affects many women, and one of its most common causes is endometriosis. Characterised by the growth of tissue like the lining of the uterus outside the womb, endometriosis can cause debilitating pain and significantly impact a woman's quality of life. It’s a condition that is often misunderstood, and many women endure years of suffering before receiving an accurate diagnosis.

What is Endometriosis?

Endometriosis occurs when endometrial-like tissue grows outside the uterus, typically on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or the tissue lining the pelvis. Each month, this tissue responds to hormonal signals just like the uterine lining, thickening, breaking down, and bleeding. However, unlike the tissue inside the uterus, the blood has nowhere to go, which can lead to inflammation, scar tissue formation (adhesions), and severe pain.

The pain associated with endometriosis can range from mild to severe and is often experienced during menstruation, but it can also occur during or after sex, urination, or bowel movements. Other symptoms may include fatigue, bloating, irregular bleeding, and infertility.

How Prevalent is Endometriosis in Australia?

Endometriosis is more common than many people realise, with some recent statistics shedding light on the scale of the condition in Australia.

Prevalence: It is estimated that 1 in 7 Australian women of reproductive age are affected by endometriosis, making it a leading cause of chronic pelvic pain.

Age of Onset: Endometriosis can develop in adolescent girls, but it is typically diagnosed in women between the ages of 25 and 35.

Diagnosis Delays: One of the most concerning aspects of endometriosis is the delayed diagnosis. On average, it takes 7 to 10 years from the onset of symptoms for a woman to receive a definitive diagnosis. During this time, many women are told their pain is “normal” or linked to other conditions.

Impact on Quality of Life: Endometriosis significantly impacts a woman’s daily life, with studies showing that it can result in lost workdays, decreased productivity, and, in severe cases, reduced fertility. Women with endometriosis are also at higher risk for mental health issues, including depression and anxiety, due to the ongoing pain and the challenges associated with diagnosis and treatment.

How a Pelvic Floor Osteopath Can Help Manage Endometriosis Symptoms

Although there is currently no cure for endometriosis, there are several ways to manage symptoms and improve quality of life. One of the most effective complementary approaches to managing chronic pelvic pain from endometriosis is through the help of a Pelvic Floor Osteopath.

Pelvic floor osteopathy is a form of manual therapy that focuses on treating the musculoskeletal system, particularly the muscles and joints of the pelvic area. By using gentle hands-on techniques, a pelvic floor osteopath can help in trying to reduce/ help the symptoms associated with endometriosis. This could be done with a mixture of treatment approaches such as direct pelvic floor release, Working through life style factors, stress, breathing techniques as well as other musculoskeletal approaches.

When to Seek Help from a Pelvic Floor Osteopath

If you are living with chronic pelvic pain and suspect you may have endometriosis—or if you’ve been diagnosed with the condition—working with a pelvic floor osteopath can be an excellent way to manage your symptoms.

You should consider seeking help from a Pelvic Floor Osteopath if you are experiencing:

Ongoing pelvic pain, especially during menstruation or sexual intercourse

Difficulty finding relief through conventional treatments

Pain or discomfort related to your bladder or bowels

A desire to address your pain

References:
https://endometriosisaustralia.org/?gad_source=1&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIjq718IefiwMVU6lmAh32kRPeEAAYASAAEgJDJPD_BwE