The impact of Endometriosis on Mental Health

Endometriosis is not widely known among people, however, is very common among women and those assigned female at birth with about 1-10 having this condition.

So, what is Endometriosis?

It's an inflammatory disease whereby tissue similar to the lining of the uterus (endometrium) is found outside of the uterus and is commonly found in the pelvic region, growing, spreading and causing pain. There have even been rare cases of endometriosis found in the lungs and the brain.

What are some of the symptoms of Endometriosis?

Symptoms vary from person to person with some people having little to no pain while others are left in debilitating pain and unable to work.

Symptoms include:

Painful periods

Back pain

Heavy bleeding when menstruating

Dizzy spells

Nerve pain

Pain with intercourse (dyspareunia)

Constipation

Diarrhoea

Pelvic pain

Digestion issues

Bladder Issues

Fatigue and weakness

Fertility issues

The list is almost endless and the symptoms above are just a few of them.

The links with having Endometriosis and suffering from poor mental health stems from the disease and its progression. Having a condition that often requires surgery after surgery, yet it can still grow back, and cause pain can have lasting effects on those with this disease including anxiety and depression. It can also cause rifts within relationships and also cause poor self-image due to fertility struggles, bloating, pain, fatigue and a change in body size. This condition can make you feel like a prisoner in your own body because you cannot escape it, it can make you question why this had to happen to you, it can also potentially lead to negative self-talk due to thoughts around your body 'not functioning' as it should and causing at times chronic pain. Endometriosis is often called the invisible disease as those with this condition often look fine from the outside however, maybe in terrible pain due to the damage the disease has caused in growing and at times adhering organs together, or from scar tissue created resulting from laparoscopic surgeries.

A multidisciplinary approach is at times used to manage this condition which may include:

Frequent GP visits

Pain medication

Contraception to slow endometriosis growth or to possibly minimise pain

Physiotherapy for pelvic floor issues

Dietician appointments

Pain Psychology

Yoga

Mindfulness

Again, there are other approaches not listed that may be used and integrated to help with pain, flareups, mental health and overall health.

Note: Endometriosis affects those that suffer from it differently, so some may have the condition and have almost no symptoms and pain, while others may experience chronic and debilitating pain.

How can you support someone suffering from this condition?

Learn a little more about it and just how it can affect a person in their entirety.

If they're in pain, offer assistance or just be there to support them.

Be there as a supportive, non-judgemental presence.

Ask if they'd like to talk about it.

Be that safe space for them.

For further information or if you had any questions regarding this post, you can comment below or email me at: halen@wellbeingcounselling.co.nz