What are the treatment options for endometriosis?

Endometriosis is a disorder in which tissue that lines the uterus can be found on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or intestines. Patricia Geraghty, MSN, WHNP, shares common treatments that help manage pain and estrogen production.

Transcript

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Treating endometriosis focuses on managing the pain and managing the estrogen production.

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Some of the medical treatments involve acetaminophen with or without non-steroidal anti-inflammatories for pain and inflammation.

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Combined hormonal contraception, such as the pill or the vaginal ring, reduces menstrual bleeding by reducing the growth of those endometrial implants.

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We can also alter the messages from the brain that stimulate the growth. GNRH triggers menses.

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GNRH agonists overwhelm the system and turns it off. And a new method, GNRH antagonists,

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sort of dials down the system, reducing estrogen production, which then reduces growth in those implants.

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Surgical removal of the implants can also be used. This is typically reserved for when a woman is trying to get pregnant,

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because in all of these cases, endometriosis process continues and is ongoing.

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So ongoing management is also needed. Endometriosis is a serious and chronic condition.

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It can be progressive, worsening with time. It can lead to chronic pain and infertility.

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However, it has also been shown to sometimes spontaneously improve. We don't understand who or why some women experience

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such different paths. The condition does seem to run in families, with a slightly higher risk among sisters

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or even among cousins. If you suspect you might have endometriosis, see your healthcare clinician.