Endometriosis and Exercise
Endometriosis is a gynaecological condition where endometrial tissue which normally lines the uterus, grows on the outside of the uterus. This tissue can grow on a variety of areas, including, but not limited to the fallopian tubes, ovaries and the lining of the pelvis. With the hormonal changes experienced during the menstrual cycle, specifically increases in oestrogen, scar tissue and adhesions form. This condition is incredibly painful leading to inflammation, cramping, bloating and pelvic pain.
Exercising with Endometriosis Tips:
Exercise results in an increase in antioxidant and anti-inflammatory markers in the body which is incredibly important when working with inflammatory conditions such as endometriosis;
Increased cramping and pelvic pain often results in the body going into protective spasm. More commonly there is a lot of time spent in the ‘fetal position’ causing tension in hip flexors, abdominal wall and pelvic floor;
Working on a combination of stretching and strengthening these areas is key when first returning to exercise;
Addressing a hypertonic pelvic floor through exercises revolving around percentage contraction and relaxation of the pelvic floor, is the first step before introducing more complex exercise prescription.