Endometriosis is an incurable condition that can rob affected women of much of their quality of life. Pain is just one aspect of it. Psychological stress also adds to the burden, which can extend across all areas of life. Cognitive Behavioural Hypnotherapy can help patients address all effects of endometriosis.
The impacts of endometriosis are far-reaching
In brief: With endometriosis, the endometrium is found outside of the uterus. During the monthly menstruation, inflammation occurs in the body, which can cause discomfort not only during menstruation but also at other times. Depending on which organs are affected, various symptoms can appear.
Physical symptoms of this disease include:
Severe pain during menstruation
Pain during intercourse
Heavy menstrual bleeding
Dizziness, exhaustion
Constipation, diarrhoea
Nausea, vomiting
Infertility
Psychological symptoms of endometriosis include:
Loss of self-esteem
Anxiety and panic attacks
Depression
There are many misconceptions that make diagnosing and treating endometriosis even more difficult. For example, the woman's age doesn't matter. Endo-related conditions can manifest at any point in a woman's life and have even been detected in embryos.
While it’s true that an individual's pain perception doesn’t necessarily match the severity of the disease, this does not mean that endo-related symptoms are "just in the head."
Often, those affected experience that their symptoms are not being taken seriously. This not only delays the start of therapy but adds further stress. It is also unhelpful that the cause of the disease is still unknown, and medical treatment often focuses mainly on pain control.
Some believe it is an immune system disorder, while other studies dispute this. However, this doesn’t mean that patients should go without support, and there is still hope.
Pain Management through Hypnotherapy
In my practice, I use techniques to help patients manage all the symptoms they experience with endometriosis. This allows them to approach daily life with renewed energy. We can start even before a diagnosis has been made by a doctor. I assist my clients in preparing for upcoming appointments, helping them gain the strength and confidence to discuss their condition with their gynaecologist.
Once a diagnosis is made, we will focus on:
Relaxation exercises
Mental health
Pain management
Stress combined with pain increases suffering. Therefore, during hypnotherapy, we use relaxation techniques to lower overall stress levels. Often, improvements in symptoms can be observed simply through this.
Relaxation also occurs when we become aware of our thought patterns. Chronic conditions often lead to cognitive distortions. The effect of this is that we further limit ourselves and suffer from anxieties, even though there is no medical reason to do so.
Finally, we use Endometriosis Hypnosis to deeply strengthen the positive connection between relaxation and helpful thoughts. Additionally, my patients learn techniques that can alleviate acute pain.
I tailor my approach to the individual concerns of my clients. For instance, if a woman’s primary issue is her digestive system, we can work on managing gastrointestinal problems. If fears related to sex have developed, we will focus on those.
The personal approach of Cognitive Behavioural Hypnotherapy is what is most important to me. Women with endometriosis often experience that they are not listened to or taken seriously. In my practice, there is a safe space where concerns can be discussed calmly and openly. I accept your pain as you feel it, without judgment. This also applies to associated issues like anxiety related to work absences, fertility issues, or relationship problems.
This can also help women with endometriosis
In this article, I offer my support to help you manage endometriosis with hypnosis. However, there are other tips that I would like to share, based on feedback from affected individuals. What works for one person might not work for another, so experimentation is key.
For pain relief:
Heating pad
TENS machine*
Regular gentle exercise
Massages, acupuncture
Dietary changes*
Dietary supplements*
CBD oil*
Pain medication*
Hormone therapy*
For mental health:
Support groups
Support from friends, family, acquaintances
Open and honest communication about your suffering**
*For these approaches, you should consult a qualified expert.
**Endometriosis is a disease. There is nothing to feel embarrassed about or ashamed of.
References
FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions about Endometriosis Hypnotherapy
Can hypnotherapy help with endometriosis?
Yes, hypnosis can help patients better manage their endo symptoms, both the pain and the psychological distress that often accompany endometriosis.
Can endometriosis regress?
There have been cases where endometriosis has regressed, particularly during pregnancy or with consistent use of hormonal contraceptives. However, this does not constitute a cure. Even surgery to remove the endometrium outside of the uterus is not always permanently successful.
What is the best treatment for endometriosis?
This varies from person to person. What works for one patient may have no effect on another. It also depends on whether the goal is solely pain management or if mental health concerns should be addressed as well.
What stops endometriosis?
Unfortunately, nothing stops it permanently. Pregnancy, continuous use of hormonal contraceptives, and surgery can help reduce endometrial lesions, especially in the case of adenomyosis. However, there is no guarantee of permanent healing.