Pain relief
- anti-inflammatory painkillers, such as ibuprofen or naproxen
- paracetamol, alone or with anti-inflammatories
- heat, TENS machines and physiotherapy can also help
Hormone treatments
These reduce or stop periods, which can ease symptoms:
- the combined pill, often taken back to back
- progestogens, as tablets, the implant or injection
- a hormonal coil (IUS)
- GnRH analogues, which cause a temporary, reversible menopause. They are usually given with add-back HRT
Hormone treatments do not affect fertility in the long term, but they stop you getting pregnant while you take them.
Surgery
Keyhole surgery can remove or destroy areas of endometriosis. Complex endometriosis, such as in the bowel or bladder, should be treated at a specialist endometriosis centre. A hysterectomy may be considered for some people, but it does not always cure endometriosis.
Fertility
If you are trying for a baby, surgery or IVF may help. Talk to your specialist about your plans before treatment.
Pain and emotional support
Long-term pain can affect your mood. A pain management service or talking therapy can help.
Sources we used
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