2. Endometriosis Treatment General Measures • Diagnosing the disorder is usually accomplished with a laparoscopy procedure. A laparoscope (telescopic instrument with fiber optic light) is inserted into the abdomen through a small incision, and visual examination of abdominal organs is possible. • Treatment after diagnosis will vary depending on the stage of the disease and the patient's age and desire to have children. • If you want children, consider pregnancy as soon as possible. Pregnancy may offer some relief from the disorder. Delaying pregnancy may result in infertility. • Ask your doctor about the use of sanitary napkins or tampons. • Use heat to relieve pain. Place a heating pad or hot-water bottle on your abdomen or back, or take warm baths to relax muscles and relieve discomfort. For some women, cold therapy is more helpful. Place an ice pack on the lower abdomen. • Laser surgery or electrocoagulation may be used to remove the abnormal growths. • Surgery to remove implants, or a hysterectomy to remove the uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries in women who don’t want to become pregnant. • For additional information or help in finding a support group: Endometriosis Association, 8585 N. 76th Place, Milwaukee, WI 53223, (800) 992-ENDO (3636); www.endometriosisassn.org Medication • You may use nonprescription drugs, such as nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), to relieve minor pain. • Stronger pain relievers may be prescribed. • Oral contraceptives, progestogens, danazol, gonadotropin-releasing hormones (Gn-RH) are commonly-used drugs for treating endometriosis by suppressing ovarian function. Activity • Exercise, such as walking, helps in relieving pain and reduces estrogen levels, which may slow the growth of endometriosis. • Some activity restrictions may apply following surgical therapies. Diet Some diet changes may help. Avoid caffeine. It seems to aggravate pain in some women.
Notify Our Office If • You or a family member has symptoms of endometriosis. • The following occur during treatment: intolerable pain or unusual or excessive vaginal bleeding. • New, unexplained symptoms develop. Drugs used in treatment may produce side effects. • Symptoms recur after treatment.
< Previous Topic
