Illustration by Mira Norian for Verywell Health
Medically reviewed by Cordelia Nwankwo, MD
Though there is no cure for endometriosis, living a symptom-free life is possible.
Endometriosis affects about 190 million people of reproductive age worldwide. Because this condition can look different from one person to the next, treatment options and self-care strategies can be tricky to navigate.
That’s why we’ve created our Endometriosis Self-Care Center, where you can find advice about managing symptoms, selecting treatment, rethinking your diet, and controlling stress. We’ve also included stories from real women who share their unique perspectives and best advice.
Overall, my top advice for navigating endometriosis care is to:
Find the right specialist: Look for a doctor who takes your symptoms seriously. Get a second and third opinion if need be.
Form a medical team: It’s not just a gynecologist. Sometimes it requires working with other specialties, nutritionists, mental health providers, pelvic floor therapists, and fertility specialists.
Change your diet: This can go a long way to help with endometriosis. Focus on a low-inflammatory diet, decrease red meat intake, and try and avoid processed foods.
Relieve stress: Invest in things that relieve stress. Try yoga, massage, or acupuncture. These methods, in turn, will help your symptoms as well.
We hope this information inspires you to find the care that works for you.