Endometriosis - Home Treatment

SYMPTOMS & TREATMENTS

Home treatment may ease the pain and discomfort of endometriosis. You can supplement your medical treatment plan with one or more of the following measures.

  • Take an anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) such as ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil) on a regular schedule. Check with your doctor before you use a nonprescription medicine for more than a few days. (If there is a chance that you are or could soon become pregnant, do not use an NSAID. NSAIDs have been linked to increased miscarriage risk, especially when used at the time of conception and when an NSAID is used for longer than a week.7)
    • Start taking the recommended dose as soon as your discomfort begins or the day before your menstrual period is scheduled to start.
    • Take the medicine in regularly scheduled doses. Taking the medicine only when your pain is “really bad” is not as effective.
    • If one type of NSAID does not relieve your pain, try another type. Or try acetaminophen, such as Tylenol.
  • Apply heat to your lower abdomen with a heating pad or hot water bottle, or take a warm bath. Heat improves blood flow and may relieve pelvic pain.
  • Lie down and elevate your legs by placing a pillow under your knees. When you lie on your side, bring your knees up to your chest to relieve back pressure.
  • Use relaxation techniques and biofeedback. For more information, see the topic Stress Management.
  • Exercise regularly. It improves blood flow, increases certain pain-relieving substances naturally made by the body (endorphins), and reduces pain.
By: Healthwise StaffLast Revised: July 28, 2009
Medical Review: Sarah Anne Marshall, MD - Family Medicine
Deborah A. Penava, BA, MD, FRCSC, MPH - Obstetrics and Gynecology

© 1995-2011 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated. This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.

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