Pain management with Endo

I’m sorry to hear you’re having pain. First, I want to say that, even though I’m not sure your age, there isn’t a “too young” for a laparoscopy to diagnose or treat endometriosis. Although, I know doctors routinely dismiss endometriosis pain in teenagers. I’d suggest seeing a different doctor if your current provider is telling you that your age prevents you from surgical treatment (no matter how old you are).

With that said, I’ve had 3 surgeries for endometriosis and none have helped ease my period pain. What’s helped the most is a prescription anti-inflammatory called a COX-2 inhibitor. It blocks pain caused by prostaglandins, this is a chemical released into the body to trigger uterine contractions. While I can’t give you medical advice, I’d suggest talking to your doctor about it if they’ve never mentioned it before.

Here’s more on that: https://endometriosis.net/living/period-pain-treatment

As far as diets, I can say that a low-FODMAP, gluten-free, plant-based diet low in processed foods and sugar has helped my general overall pain, including joint pain. My doctor also suggested I take a magnesium supplement since that can help ease some types of cramping. It hasn’t helped my type of cramping, but it’s worked wonders for friends of mine.

Here is article on herbs and supplements for period pain: https://endometriosis.net/complementary-alternative-treatment/herbs-supplements

And here are are few more articles on ways to relieve period pain that might be helpful: https://endometriosis.net/symptoms/period-pain ; https://endometriosis.net/living/diet-inflammation ; https://endometriosis.net/living/research-diet

Wishing you well! - Keri (endometriosis.net team member)

Gosh, so sorry to hear you are in such pain and not having much luck with finding a doctor to truly help you manage it 🙁 That makes me sad. I would have to agree with Keri as far as the age thing. I don't really agree with the doctors saying you are "too young" for surgery. Like she said, we aren't sure of your exact age but I have talked to many who have had surgery even at the age of 12. To be able to receive a proper diagnosis, and find some relief. It is so frustrating doctors dismiss it so often. I was young when my symptoms started. But they kept telling me it was all in my head. It wasn't until I was in my late 20's someone finally diagnosed me.


Definitely see if you can find another doctor. I had to get 2nd, 3rd, even 8th opinions before I found someone who would truly sit, listen to me, and agree to the things I said I wanted/needed done.


But as Keri pointed out, I too, did not find relief from surgeries. It helped in some ways, because I had other things going on. But all in all, I definitely still experience pain. I have had 4 surgeries so far, and we are already planning a 5th. BUT, I can also say, some people truly do find relief from surgery. I think it really depends on the doctor you have and their skills/expertise in endometriosis. And what you do after surgery to continue to try and heal.


For me, honestly, diet seems to be the only thing that helps my pain. I jump between the LOWFODMAP/AIP diet. It is a lot of trial and error figuring out what exactly bothers me and causes more pain and inflammation. Basically, gluten, dairy, soy, sugar, fried stuff, high carbs, red meats- to name a few, are definite no no's.


My other go to, really is just my heating pad. Sometimes light walking, stretching, a TENS unit- are my go to's as well. I have tried numerous supplements but haven't found anything but magnesium to help.


Keri left a lot of great links to look at so I won't bombard you with more. But I just wanted to chime in and share my experience too.


I really hope you are able to find relief from the pain. I know it is so exhausting to have to deal with. If you ever need anything or want to chat more, I am here. Please message anytime. Sending you hugs and good thoughts. -Kimberli (advocate)