March is endometriosis awareness month and today’s health note ???? is all about highlighting the important non-period related symptoms that women experience that could be part of endometriosis.

Endometriosis is a condition that affects many women, but it’s not just about having painful periods. In fact, some of the most troubling symptoms of endometriosis happen outside of your menstrual cycle. These can have a negative impact on your day-to-day wellbeing.

???? One of the most common non-period-related symptoms is chronic pelvic pain. This is a deep, constant pain in the lower abdomen, which can last for days or weeks. It doesn’t always happen around your period, and for many women, it’s there all the time.

???? Another symptom can be pain during sexual intercourse (known as deep dyspareunia). This kind of pain is usually sharp or deep, and it can make intimacy very uncomfortable, affecting both your physical and emotional health.

???? Endometriosis can also mess with your digestive system. Gut issues like cyclic bloating, diarrhea, and constipation are common, especially when the endometriosis affects parts of the bowel. Painful bowel movements (dyschezia) or even painful urination (dysuria) can also occur.

???? And let’s not forget about the exhaustion! Women with endometriosis often feel an overwhelming sense of fatigue, even after a full night’s rest. This can make it hard to get through the day, impacting both work and social life.

???? Perhaps most concerning for many is infertility. Endometriosis is one of the leading causes of infertility, and can be what finally makes a diagnosis of endometriosis known.

???? The tricky part? Endometriosis is difficult to diagnose. Many of these symptoms can overlap with other conditions like IBS, pelvic inflammatory disease, or simply be dismissed because of how we’ve normalized women’s health issues.

???? It can take up to 9 years (yes, you read that right) for women to get the right diagnosis. Often, the only way to confirm it is through surgery, which can be an invasive process and a long wait.

???? That’s why it’s so important to listen to your body and advocate for yourself. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, don’t be afraid to reach out to a healthcare provider who understands the complexities of endometriosis.

???? Naturopathic Doctors can suggest diet + lifestyle factors, plus herbs and supplements
???? Acupuncture can help with pain, reduce stress, and promote relaxation
???? Physiotherapy, with a pelvic floor focus, to help with any low back, pelvic, and/or bladder symptoms
???? Chiropractic adjustments, especially in the lumbar spine, sacrum, and pelvis, can improve mobility, reduce nerve irritation, and alleviate musculoskeletal pain

PS. endometriosis goes far beyond just painful periods. You deserve to have your symptoms investigated and managed. We’re here to help ???? Some of our practitioners have openings this week!

We love a team approach!!

In conjunction with your Primary Care Provider and/or your OB/GYN, at Roots to Branches Whole Health Clinic we have a variety of practitioners to help you manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life with endometriosis and its challenging symptoms.

Practitioner update ????????:  Dr. Stephanie Galea DC, is no longer accepting new clients!  If you are seeking chiropractor care for yourself or your littles, Dr. Shannon Gow DC, is accepting new clients and gradually starting to take over some of Dr. Steph’s load as she prepares for her maternity leave.  You can get to know Dr. Shannon by following her on Instagram HERE, or Book your appointment HERE

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