Many women can go through life without knowing that they have endometriosis. They might experience normal levels of pain during periods and sexual intercourse whilst most women with endometriosis feel debilitating abdominal cramps and pelvic pain. However, conceiving a child could be a problem for almost all women with endometriosis and when they visit the doctor, they come to know about this condition.
What is Endometriosis?
The endometrium is the inner lining of the uterus that gets thickened in anticipation of pregnancy every month, and when the pregnancy does not occur, it sheds itself and that is what we call periods. Sometimes the endometrial tissues can grow outside the uterus, usually behind the cervix or it can also grow in other organs like lungs or intestines. It acts the same way as the endometrium lining inside the uterus but since it is not in its regular place, it starts creating different issues for the person.Â
It is not that every woman experiences the same symptoms when it comes to endometriosis as the stage and severity of the disorder may vary. Some women may even dread when their periods are nearing. It could be a monthly ordeal for women who have endometriosis experiencing painful periods, experiencing painful intercourse, going through infertility, etc. Some of the early symptoms of endometriosis include:
- Severe, debilitating abdominal cramps.
- Pelvic pain, usually worse during a period.
- Long periods.
- Heavy menstrual flow.
- Nausea and/or vomiting.
- Pain/cramping during or after sexual intercourse.
- Bowel and urinary disorders.
- Painful bowel movements or urination during menstruation, etc.Â
Sex plays a vital role in a couple’s life, and when endometriosis debilitates the partner, it can be worrisome. Does that mean one cannot have sex at all? No, it takes some patience, compassion, and understanding between the partners to make things work. There are many things one can try to still have a successful intimate life even with endometriosis.Â
BE STRAIGHT FORWARD
First and foremost, being honest with your partner is extremely important. You cannot silently bear the pain while your partner is probably unaware of what is going on with you. S/he may get the wrong signal that you either don’t like them or that s/he is doing something wrong, which might make them less confident. Hence it is better to have a heart-to-heart talk with your partner about your situation and tell him/her exactly what you are going through. Allow them to contribute to making this work in whatever way they can.
REDUCE STRESS
Stress can lead to a lot of issues including inflammation, which also plays a main role in endometriosis. So it is extremely important to reduce stress for which you can try meditation, yoga, develop new hobbies, or just spend time with pets and loved ones.Â
DURING THE MOON CYCLE
Most women with endometriosis find it comfortable to have intercourse in the beginning few days of their monthly cycle. That is once they are done menstruating till the time they ovulate and get ready for the next period. After ovulation till the beginning of the period is a time where the endometrium is stimulated by the estrogen and the endometriosis tissues too will be influenced by this. Physical therapy for the pelvic floor involves certain exercises that relax the muscles in the pelvic area, which can aid in rather pain-free sex for women with endometriosis.Â
EXPLORE
Trying different positions will not only arouse your partner’s interest but can help lower pain. Certain positions like spooning, raised hips can be comparatively less painful than the missionary position. Any sexual position in which the uterus is tilted backward can be helpful; however if there are any adhesion created by endometriosis, it can be very painful. Also, quick thrusting can cause a lot of pain, you can talk frankly with your partner about slowing things down a bit instead of thrusting deeply. It need not always be sex with penetration, as oral and other forms of sex also can interest you and your partner.Â
LUBRICATION
Women with endometriosis usually feel dry in their vaginal area, and using lubrication can ease the pain. In addition, a good amount of foreplay can be extremely satisfying and not to mention exciting but will also help your body lubricate.
MEDICAL HELP
If the pain is unbearable, then taking certain painkillers an hour before the act can help you feel relieved. Considering the fact that ibuprofen present in most painkillers can potentially harm you in the long term. Red Moon CBD-Infused ultra-thin pads can provide that natural relief from pain. The last resort would be surgery to remove all those painful implants, of course, your doctor will be able to advise what is best for you instead of abusing painkillers available over the counter.
Having endometriosis doesn’t mean an end to your sex life. A holistic approach with proper medications and counseling can help you achieve a great sexual experience.