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When you talk to your gynecologist about finding a treatment that works for you, be specific about your symptoms. This can lead to a better understanding of your unique situation, which is helpful in creating a treatment plan.
Painkillers:
Both prescription and over-the-counter painkillers can decrease inflammation and may help with endometriosis-associated pain.
Hormonal birth control:
Hormonal birth control can prevent estrogen fluctuation, which may reduce endometriosis-associated pain during the period. Hormonal birth control can be used in several ways. Some include:
Laparoscopy (LAP-uh-RAHSK-uh-pee):
A laparoscopy is a minimally invasive surgery that can be used to diagnose endometriosis and remove lesions, which can relieve endometriosis pain. If you are considering a laparoscopy, ask your doctor about the different methods, including:
Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist medications:
Usually taken as an injection or nasal spray, GnRH agonist medications reduce estrogen production. Low estrogen levels can help reduce lesion growth and relieve endometriosis pain.
Hysterectomy (HISS-ter-REKT-uh-mee):
A hysterectomy is the surgical removal of the uterus (and sometimes one or both ovaries), which can relieve pain. A hysterectomy is generally viewed as a last-resort treatment because of its complexity and irreversibility.
When you sign up for SpeakENDO emails, tips, and resources, a donation will be made to the Endometriosis Foundation of America.