Endometriosis Awareness

Endometriosis Awareness: Why It Matters and How We Can Make a Difference

Endometriosis is a condition that affects an estimated 1 in 10 women, yet it remains one of the most misunderstood and often under-discussed topics in healthcare. As pelvic floor physical therapists, we have a unique and meaningful opportunity not just to treat the physical symptoms, but also to advocate for greater awareness. In this post, I want to share with you why spreading awareness about endometriosis is so important and how we, as a community, can help bring this condition into the light.

What is Endometriosis?

Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the lining inside the uterus (called the endometrium) grows outside the uterus. These growths can appear on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and even on other organs, sometimes beyond the pelvic region. This can cause a range of symptoms, including severe pelvic pain, heavy periods, painful intercourse, and even challenges with fertility.

The frustrating part? Endometriosis is often hard to diagnose. Many women experience symptoms for years before they receive a proper diagnosis, and unfortunately, too many are told that their symptoms are “just part of being a woman.” This can make those affected feel isolated or misunderstood. That’s why awareness is key—so women don’t have to suffer in silence and so they can get the support and care they truly deserve.

Why Is Endometriosis Awareness So Important?

Faster Diagnosis & Better Care
On average, it takes about 7-10 years for someone with endometriosis to get the correct diagnosis. By raising awareness, we can help people recognize the signs and encourage them to seek care sooner. The earlier endometriosis is diagnosed, the sooner women can start managing their symptoms and finding effective treatments.

Expanding Treatment Options
While there is no cure for endometriosis, there are many ways to manage the condition. Surgery, hormonal therapy, pain management, and physical therapy can all play a role in helping someone live more comfortably. Unfortunately, many people aren’t aware that pelvic floor physical therapy can make a significant difference. A skilled therapist can help reduce pelvic pain, improve function, and address issues like incontinence or pain during intercourse—important tools in helping women live their lives to the fullest.

Breaking the Stigma
For many, the symptoms of endometriosis are dismissed as “normal” period pain or something that should just be tolerated. But this is far from true. By raising awareness, we can break the stigma that surrounds menstruation and pain, and create a more supportive environment where women feel empowered to speak up. This is so important because when women feel heard, they’re more likely to seek help and find the support they need.

Empowering Women
One of the most powerful things we can do is help women feel empowered in their own healthcare journey. When people understand that their symptoms are valid and that they’re not alone, they’re more likely to pursue the resources and care they need. It’s crucial that women feel supported not just physically, but emotionally as well. The more we talk about endometriosis, the less isolated those with the condition will feel.

Advocating for More Research
The more awareness we create, the more momentum we generate for research into endometriosis. There’s still so much we don’t know about its causes, and much more that can be done to improve treatment and care. By raising our voices together, we can help ensure that endometriosis gets the attention and funding it needs for advancements in both research and patient care.

How Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy Helps

As pelvic floor physical therapists, we see firsthand how endometriosis can affect people’s lives. Chronic pelvic pain, tight muscles, and pelvic floor dysfunction can all be a result of endometriosis. This is where pelvic floor therapy can truly make a difference.

Pelvic floor therapy can help people with endometriosis in several ways:

• Relaxing tight muscles: Many women with endometriosis experience pelvic floor muscle tension, often because of the pain or inflammation in the area. Therapy can focus on gently relaxing these muscles, which can help reduce pain and improve function.

• Improving posture and movement: Pain and discomfort can cause people to adopt poor posture or movement patterns, which can make symptoms worse. Through physical therapy, we can help people re-align and move more freely without triggering additional pain.

• Pain management: Techniques like myofascial release, soft tissue mobilization, and stretching can help manage and reduce pain. Learning strategies to cope with flare-ups can also be a huge benefit.

• Empowering self-care: Education is key. We work with patients to teach them how to manage their symptoms at home. This may involve breathing exercises, stretching routines, and lifestyle adjustments to make day-to-day living more manageable.

How You Can Help Spread Awareness

You don’t have to be a healthcare professional to make a difference when it comes to raising awareness about endometriosis. Here are a few simple yet powerful ways you can help bring this important issue into the spotlight:

1. Share Your Story
   If you or someone you know is living with endometriosis, sharing your experience can be incredibly powerful. Talking about the symptoms, struggles, and victories not only helps raise awareness, but it also gives others the courage to speak up and seek help. Whether it’s on social media, with friends, or through support groups, your story could make someone else feel heard and understood.

2. Educate Those Around You
   The more people know about endometriosis, the better. If you hear someone dismissing period pain or thinking it’s “just part of being a woman,” gently share what you know about endometriosis. You don’t have to be an expert—just sharing the basic facts can help break down the stigma and get people talking.

3. Support Endometriosis Organizations
   There are many organizations dedicated to raising awareness, providing resources, and funding research for endometriosis. Consider supporting these groups, whether it’s by donating, participating in awareness events, or simply following them on social media to help spread their message. Every bit of support helps push the conversation forward.

4. Encourage Others to Seek Help
   If you know someone who may be struggling with endometriosis but hasn’t been diagnosed or is hesitant to seek care, encourage them to talk to their doctor. Sometimes, all it takes is a nudge from someone who understands that their symptoms are valid to take the first step toward getting the right care.

5. Get Involved in Awareness Campaigns
   Participating in campaigns like Endometriosis Awareness Month or other local awareness efforts can be a great way to contribute. Whether it’s wearing yellow, sharing posts, or attending events, these small actions can make a big difference in educating the public and advocating for those who live with the condition.

Conclusion

Endometriosis is something that touches so many lives, yet for too long it’s been misunderstood or overlooked. By spreading awareness, sharing information, and supporting each other, we can break the silence and ensure that everyone living with endometriosis gets the care and support they deserve. Together, we can make a difference—whether it’s by talking openly about the condition or helping others find the resources they need to manage their symptoms.