The hidden pain of endometriosis

Endometriosis is a debilitating condition and the cause of pain and frustration for many young women.

It can feel like barbed wire is wrapped tightly around you, ripping your insides apart, but as the symptoms are unseen it makes the condition difficult to explain and manage.

Endometriosis is an inflammatory condition which causes endometrial-like tissue to grow outside of the uterus (womb) where it is normally found. 

It can occur in the pelvic and abdominal cavity and because it is endometrial-like tissue it responds to monthly hormonal changes.

Endometriosis is often only diagnosed as a woman is trying to fall pregnant and is confirmed either through a pelvic examination and ultrasound imaging or via a laparoscopic investigation.

The symptoms are varied but one of the most common issues is painful periods, other symptoms include:

• Heavy periods and spotting in between periods
• Pain with sex
• Pain and or difficulty when urinating
• Constipation and painful passing of stool as sometimes the endometrial adhesions affect the large intestine
• Diarrhea due to the local irritation at the colon
• Rectal bleeding
• Difficulty with falling pregnant
• Constant or cyclical bouts (during periods) of abdominal pain and lower back pain which can refer into the groin and the leg.
• Tight muscles within the pelvic floor

Consult your doctor and or gynaecologist if you are struggling with these symptoms, they will assess you and be able to assist with medication.

In some cases laparoscopic surgery is indicated to remove adhesions too.

Less commonly known is that a physiotherapist with training in pelvic/women’s health is also able to help you.

We can assist by:

• Working on the scar tissue post laparoscopic surgery
• Ensuring the pelvic floor muscles are functioning correctly and not tight or in spasm
• Pain management
• Teach you how to ease the emptying of your bladder and bowel

For those of you who are fighting this condition it takes tremendous courage, determination and tenacity.

Know that there is hope and there are professionals trained to help you to manage your symptoms. You do not need to suffer alone.

Salt Rock resident Tarryn Graham has a BSc in Physiotherapy from Stellenbosch University, and has a special interest in and further training in women’s health physiotherapy. She has 10 years’ experience in women’s health and pelvic floor physiotherapy.