Treatment Can Reduce Chronic Pain Caused by Endometriosis

Planned Parenthood of Wisconsin (PPWI) discusses the importance of bringing awareness to this difficult disease

Endometriosis affects more than five million women in the U.S. and in some cases, is associated with infertility. Many experience severe, chronic pain with this disease. Throughout March, Endometriosis Awareness Month, Meg Robertson, Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner and Director of Clinical Services at Planned Parenthood of Wisconsin is discussing this crucial topic to spread the word that there are viable treatments for this disease. PPWI sees many patients suffering from the debilitating symptoms of endometriosis and wants to let people know that we can help.

“While there is no cure, the most effective treatment for the symptoms of endometriosis is hormonal medication, such as birth control pills,” said Meg Robertson, Director of Clinical Services at PPWI. “Birth control is basic health care and significantly improves the lives of women living with this painful condition.”

Background Information on Endometriosis
Endometriosis has been estimated to affect up to 15% of women of reproductive age. It occurs when tissue from the lining of the uterus (the endometrium) grows outside of the uterus. Typically it occurs in the pelvis, including the uterus, ovaries and fallopian tubes, but it has also been found in other areas of the body such as the abdomen, colon and lungs.

Symptoms of Endometriosis
The most common symptom is chronic pain, usually in the pelvic region, and most often during menstrual periods. Other symptoms include intestinal pain, spotting or bleeding between periods, pain during sex and infertility.

Action Steps to Take if You’re Experiencing Endometriosis Symptoms

• Don’t be discouraged. Make an appointment with a trusted health care provider. PPWI offers affordable, quality care and can help you manage your endometriosis symptoms and provide a referral to a specialist, if needed.
• Play an active role in your health care by keeping a diary of your symptoms leading up to your appointment.
• Have an honest discussion with your health care provider about your symptoms.

“Planned Parenthood of Wisconsin provides affordable, quality care and can help patients manage their endometriosis pain,” said Robertson. “As one of Wisconsin’s oldest and most trusted health care providers, PPWI encourages every woman to visit her health care provider for regular checkups and discuss any changes she notices in her body."

Women can make an appointment online at any of our 22 health centers.

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Planned Parenthood of Wisconsin is a nonprofit health care provider caring for 60,000 patients annually at 22 health centers. 97 percent of Planned Parenthood’s care is preventive health services including well woman exams, breast and cervical cancer screenings, birth control, HIV screening, and STD treatment.