Endometriosis

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW:

Endometriosis is a disease that occurs when tissues of the endometrium grow outside the uterus (womb). The endometrium is the lining of the uterus. The uterus is where a baby grows when a woman is pregnant. Normally, the endometrium sheds when you have a monthly period. Endometrial tissue may get trapped in your ovaries, fallopian tubes, or bladder. Patches of tissue may form and grow between these organs, making them stick together. This may cause inflammation (swelling) and pain. You may have pain before or during your monthly period. You may also have pain when urinating, having a bowel movement (BM), or during sex. Endometriosis may be found by blood tests, an ultrasound, or surgery. Treatment includes medicines or surgery. Symptoms such as painful monthly periods and pain between periods may decrease with treatment.

INSTRUCTIONS:

Take your medicine as directed:

Call your primary healthcare provider if you think your medicine is not working as expected. Tell him if you are allergic to any medicine. Keep a current list of the medicines, vitamins, and herbs you take. Include the amounts, and when, how, and why you take them. Take the list or the pill bottles to follow-up visits. Carry your medicine list with you in case of an emergency. Throw away old medicine lists.

• NSAIDs: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) medicine may decrease swelling and pain or fever. This medicine can be bought with or without a doctor's order. This medicine can cause stomach bleeding or kidney problems in certain people. Always read the medicine label and follow the directions on it before using this medicine.
  
  

Eat healthy foods:

Choose healthy foods from all the food groups every day. Include whole-grain bread, cereal, rice, and pasta. Eat a variety of fruits and vegetables, including dark green and orange vegetables. Include dairy products such as low-fat milk, yogurt, and cheese. Choose protein sources, such as lean beef and chicken, fish, beans, eggs, and nuts. Ask how many servings of fats, oils, and sweets you should have each day, and if you need to be on a special diet.

Ask for information about where and when to go for follow-up visits:

For continuing care, treatments, or home services, ask for more information.

Wellness hints:

• Use a heating pad (set on low) or take a warm bath when having abdominal or pelvic pain.
  
  
• Avoid wearing tight clothing.
  
  
• Constipation: Do not try to push the bowel movement out if it is too hard. High-fiber foods, extra liquids, and regular exercise can help you prevent constipation. Examples of high-fiber foods are fruit and bran. Prune juice and water are good liquids to drink. Regular exercise helps your digestive system work. You may also be told to take over-the-counter fiber and stool softener medicines. Take these items as directed.
  
  
• Exercise: Exercise makes the heart stronger, lowers blood pressure, and helps keep you healthy. Begin to exercise slowly and do more as you get stronger. Talk with your primary healthcare provider before you start an exercise program.
  
  
• Manage your stress: Stress may slow healing and lead to illness. Learn ways to control stress, such as relaxation, deep breathing, and music. Talk to someone about things that upset you.

CONTACT A CAREGIVER IF:

• You have questions or concerns about your endometriosis, treatment, or medicine.
  
  
• Your symptoms return after treatment.

SEEK CARE IMMEDIATELY IF:

• You have pain in your abdomen or lower back that does not go away after taking medicines.
  
  
• You have heavy or unusual vaginal bleeding.

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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

Learn more about Endometriosis (Aftercare Instructions)