Exercising to Improve Symptoms of Endometriosis

We all know that exercise is one of the most beneficial ways to relieve stress, even though we sometimes don’t want to do it. Those who live with endometriosis often find that exercise also works for their painful symptoms as it releases endorphins, which help to ease and slow pain. Let’s look at why, and the ways, exercising to improve symptoms of endometriosis may work for you.

Start Slowly

If you decide to give this idea a try, don’t do too much on day one. The idea is to move. Start with walking for 15 minutes a few times a week. Walking boosts those happy endorphins and reduces the nasty stress hormones. It can also reduce inflammation.

Resist your impulse to stay on the sofa and not move. Even a little movement can help curb the pain of endometriosis.

Try Yoga

Yoga gives your body the low impact stretching it needs. Check out some common poses to get you started if you’re not ready to join a class just yet. There are several unique poses that have been used specifically by women with endometriosis!  Even a little bit of stretching can reduce pain from endometriosis.

Do What You WILL Do

That may sound confusing, but it simply means to find your happy place. You may not be able to endure heavy-duty cardio workouts because it aggravates your pain. If walking and swimming are more your speed and they help relieve your symptoms, then stick with that plan. In other words, don’t start something you can’t do comfortably. This situation will only leave you to end up doing nothing.

Any type of activity will boost your mood and help you to avoid depression and anxiety, which are commonly associated with endometriosis due to the significant toll that the condition can take on a woman’s life.

Keep It Consistent

Regular movement or exercise is the key. Pelvic pain, cramping, and bleeding are not exactly an inducement to exercise, but trust that it will help you both physically and mentally.

Exercising consistently helps to provide protection against inflammation, and doing it regularly also reduces estrogen production that can worsen symptoms of endometriosis.

Consider a Physical Therapist

Find a physical therapist who specializes in pelvic floor exercises. When you have endometriosis, you can develop scar tissue that binds together important tissues and organs. A physical therapist can help you with a customized plan for strengthening muscles and ligaments near your vagina, bowels, and bladder to reduce endometriosis pain.

More research is needed to find the most beneficial amount of exercise to improve symptoms of  endometriosis. Meanwhile, keep moving and find the best amount and type of exercise that works specifically for you.

Talk to your gynecologist at Associates In Women’s Health about what exercises you do right now, and what other types of physical activity would be a safe addition or alternative.

As always, if you have any further questions or would like to schedule an appointment, please call (402) 697-7200 today!

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