DEAR Dr. Fritz,
I have endometriosis. Are there other ways to help me other than the medications that I
am taking?
Thank you.
Mio Mia
***
Dear Mio Mia,
Here are some of the ways to help you beside the medications you are taking.
1. Sweat it out
Run, bike, or do other types of brisk exercise, so that the levels of estrogen may drop, and your periods can be fewer or lighter. Aerobic workouts can also help you make more endorphins and will make you less sensitive to pain.
2. Eat more fruits and veggies
Women who eat a plant-based diet are less likely to have endometriosis. Also increase your healthy fats like omega-3 fatty acids in salmon, tuna, and walnuts. Avoid beef, pork, and other red meat as they can raise estrogen levels, which helps endometriosis grow.
3. Don’t drink
Alcohol raises estrogen levels, giving you more painful endometriosis. But a glass of wine or beer once in a while may be okay.
4. Wrap in warmth
A hot water bottle or heating pad in your belly can help. Be sure they’re not too hot to burn you. A warm shower or bath or a soak in the tub can also help you relax.
5. Relax
Stress because of constant pain can make you more sensitive to pain. So, relax.
6. Have a massage
A study showed that women with endometriosis who have regular massages have fewer pains during their periods. Avoid belly massage as symptoms may worsen.
7. Try Acupuncture
This raises your blood flow and releases natural painkilling chemicals. Research shows that this can lessen endometriosis pain.
8. Avoid caffeine... if...
If you feel that caffeinated drinks worsen your symptoms, then switch to decaf.
9. Get emotional support
If you feel anxious or depressed, go to your friends and family or a mental health therapist.
Good luck!
Dr. Fritz
Photos from Pexels
***
(Dr. Fritz Legarde Espedilla is an aesthetic dermatologist and surgeon and a clinical sexologist. She is also trained in hypnotherapy and Medical Acupuncture. She is the co-host of digital page of Superbalita. She has been in the broadcast media for more than a decade and has written a book based on her 15-year stint with her radio program, "Healthy is Sexy Secrets ni Dr. Fritz." For your questions, you may send them to Dear Dr. Fritz, c/o
Sunstar-Davao Publishing Inc., Ebro-Pelayo Building, Jacinto St., Davao City, (former Department of Foreign Affairs office), across Ateneo de Davao University and beside Holy Child School of Davao, or you e-mail them to dokfritz@yahoo.com. If you don't wish your letter to be published, we regret that we cannot answer them. Thank you for your understanding.)