Living with Endometriosis
One of the most important aspects of living with endometriosis
is to keep it in perspective. For example, the statistics
tell us that around 40% of women with endometriosis
will experience infertility. Instead of focusing on
the possibility that you might have fertility issues,
remember that this statistic also means that 60% of
women will not have any fertility issues associated
with their endometriosis.
Endometriosis is one of the 'invisible' diseases, in
that you look OK and most people wouldn't know that
you have a health problem. This can mean that you may
get little or no sympathy when symptoms strike. While
you don't necessarily want to broadcast your condition
to everyone, it is a good idea to confide in a few close
friends and family members so that they know what you
are going through and can be supportive and understanding.
As far as having support goes, you will find there
are endometriosis support groups in some areas; find
out about these from your health care professional,
local health department or clinic. There are also online
endometriosis support groups. It is really healthy to
be able to talk to people who understand your situation,
so ask your doctor for ideas and contacts. Investigate all endometriosis treatment options and
speak to your doctor about them. If you don't feel you
are being helped to find a suitable treatment option,
seek another medical opinion or ask to be referred to
a gynecologist who specializes in endometriosis. Make
sure you give any doctor all the details about your
condition, accurate family history and your plans for
having children. Health professionals can help you best
when they have all the pertinent information.
Many women seek medical help for endometriosis treatment
to control their symptoms and help to limit the negative
impact they can have. Pain medication isn't the only
symptom relief available. Look into alternative therapies
and natural treatments to help alleviate symptoms and
even improve your endometriosis. Many women have had
good results with acupuncture, herbal medicine, naturopathy,
aromatherapy and homeopathy. Often a combination of
therapies provides the best results.
It is really important that you look after your general
health; being fit and healthy helps you cope with endometriosis
and its symptoms. Eat a nutritious and balanced diet,
focusing on fresh fruit and vegetables, wholegrains,
nuts, pulses, lean protein and low fat dairy. Avoid
highly processed foods and fast food which have few
nutrients but extra calories. Try to have at least 30
minutes of moderate exercise on most days of the week
to maintain your fitness and keep joints and muscles
working.
Physical activity burns extra calories, gives
you increased energy, lifts your mood and improves the
flow of blood to your organs so that they can function
more efficiently. If you don't feel like doing any exercise
when your symptoms are bad, try to get outdoors for
have a short, relaxed walk around your garden or neighborhood
for 5 or 10 minutes to lift your mood and spirits.
Emotional well-being is a vital area because endometriosis
can take a huge toll on your emotions and state of mind.
Living with endometriosis affects all areas of your
life and it is wise to be prepared for this and take
some positive actions to off-set the impact. Regular
exercise and a nutritious diet help a great deal as
do relaxation activities - try meditation, Tai Chi or
Yoga; take classes or follow a DVD in your own home.
Try not to isolate yourself because you are living with
endometriosis; we all need social contact, especially
women, who support and empathize with each other so
well. If you find that you are not coping well, consider
seeking professional help sooner rather than later;
you need all the support you can get when you are living
with endometriosis. |