Endometriosis refers to the presence of endometrial tissue outside the uterine cavity. These ectopic endometrial tissues bleed during the menstrual cycle, but since the blood cannot be expelled as it would inside the uterus, they cause a series of symptoms.

Endometriosis can occur in many body parts, such as the ovaries, pelvic peritoneum, and rectovaginal septum. The exact cause of endometriosis is not fully understood, but it may be related to factors such as genetics, immunity, endocrine function, and retrograde menstruation.

When diagnosed with endometriosis, many women feel anxious and helpless, not knowing how to cope. Don't worry, this article introduces four effective coping methods:

1. Medication Therapy

Medication therapy is one of the common treatments for endometriosis. Commonly used medications include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), progestins, oral contraceptives, and gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists (GnRH-a).

NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen and naproxen, can effectively relieve pain symptoms. Progestins and oral contraceptives inhibit ovulation and endometrial proliferation, reducing menstrual blood volume and bleeding from ectopic endometrial tissue, thus alleviating symptoms.

GnRH-a can inhibit ovarian function, keeping estrogen levels in a postmenopausal state and causing the ectopic endometrial tissue to shrink. However, using these drugs may cause side effects such as hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness.

2. Surgical Treatment

For patients with severe symptoms, ineffective medication treatment, or the presence of ovarian cysts, surgical treatment may be a necessary option. Surgical methods include conservative surgery, semi-radical surgery, and radical surgery.

Conservative surgery mainly involves the removal of ectopic lesions while preserving normal uterine and ovarian tissues, suitable for young patients with fertility needs.

Semi-radical surgery involves the removal of the uterus and one or both ovaries, suitable for older patients who do not have fertility needs but wish to retain ovarian function. Radical surgery involves the removal of the uterus, both ovaries, and all ectopic lesions, suitable for patients with severe conditions, older age, and no fertility needs.

After surgery, patients' symptoms usually show significant improvement, but there is still a particular risk of recurrence.

3. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Treatment

In TCM, endometriosis is believed to be related to qi stagnation and blood stasis, cold congealing blood stasis, and phlegm-dampness obstruction. TCM treatment methods include internal use of Chinese medicine, acupuncture, and moxibustion.

Internal use of Chinese medicine involves syndrome differentiation and treatment based on the patient's specific condition. Formulas such as Fuyan Pill are prescribed, which clear heat and detoxify, activate blood and resolve stasis, strengthen the spleen and remove dampness. 

The pill can eliminate pathological changes in gynecological tissues, regulate menstruation, and relieve pain symptoms. Acupuncture and moxibustion improve symptoms by stimulating acupoints and controlling the flow of qi and blood.

Although TCM treatment is relatively slow, it has fewer side effects and is a good choice for patients with severe symptoms or those who wish to achieve comprehensive regulation.

4. Lifestyle Adjustments

A good lifestyle is also essential for managing endometriosis. First, focus on a balanced diet, consume more foods rich in vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, and avoid excessive intake of high-fat, high-sugar, and spicy foods.

Second, moderate exercise, such as walking, yoga, and swimming, can help promote blood circulation and relieve pain.

Additionally, maintain a positive mindset and avoid excessive tension and anxiety. Excessive stress may lead to endocrine disorders and worsen the condition. Learning to relax and de-stress, such as listening to music, reading, and traveling, helps stabilize the condition.

Although endometriosis is a relatively tricky disease, the above four methods can effectively control the condition and improve patients' quality of life. Each treatment method has its indications and limitations, and patients should choose the appropriate treatment plan under the guidance of a doctor based on their condition, age, and fertility needs.

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