Painful menstrual periods (dysmenorrhea) are the most common symptom of endometriosis. To relieve pain:
- Try a nonprescription medication, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
- Apply heat, such as a heating pad, hot water bottle, or warm bath, to the lower abdomen. Heat improves blood flow and may relieve pelvic pain.
- Lie down and elevate your legs by placing a pillow under your knees. When lying on your side, bring your knees up to your chest to relieve back pressure.
- Use relaxation techniques and biofeedback. See the topic Stress Management.
- Exercise regularly. It improves blood flow, increases certain pain-relieving substances naturally produced by the body (endorphins), and reduces pain.
- Try sexual activity, which may relieve pelvic cramping and backache but also may make pain from endometriosis worse.
Credits
| Author | Kathe Gallagher, MSW |
| Author | Ralph Poore |
| Author | Monica Rhodes |
| Editor | Kathleen M. Ariss, MS |
| Editor | Sydney Youngerman-Cole, RN, BSN, RNC |
| Associate Editor | Tracy Landauer |
| Associate Editor | Pat Truman |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | Deborah A. Penava, BA, MD, FRCSC, MPH - Obstetrics and Gynecology |
| Last Updated | August 1, 2007 |
Author:Kathe Gallagher, MSW
Ralph Poore
Monica Rhodes
Ralph Poore
Monica Rhodes
Last Updated: 08/01/2007
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