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Types of Treatment
Nonsurgical options are preferred for children and teens who are not trying to get pregnant. This treatment usually begins with hormone therapy. The path to treatment differs depending on individual's symptoms. Adolescent treatments may vary from that of adults. Below shows examples of some treatments common for adolescent endometriosis. Due to the age of patients, it is important to be mindful of the long-term symptoms of each treatment.
1. At Home Relief Techniques
At home treatments are the first steps for patients with menstrual pain. These can provide temporary relief during their cycle. They may not always be effective in allowing the patient to live a more "normal" day to day life, but can be a great option while awaiting more formalized care. These include over the counter pain relievers, heating pads, rest, herbal supplements or tea, and light exercise depending on patient mobility.
2. Hormone Therapy
Hormone therapy, such as birth control, can also be prescribed. Hormone treatments lessen the production of estrogen and progesterone, hormones that promotes endometrial tissue shedding. The continual use can also help shrink endometrial tissue. These effects can limit pain. The combined hormone pill or progesterone only pill can be used, but effects can be varied per individual. Side effects for every patient should be monitored and medicine adjusted accordingly. If the pain persists for months even after these treatments, different measures are taken.
Types of Hormone Therapy
Combined Oral Contraceptives
Oral contraceptives with combined hormones contain synthetic estrogen and progesterone. These can be taken for long durations of time with little to no long-term effects. The "pill" being so inexpensive is one positive to this hormone therapy. The dosage and type varies for every individual, as does the side effects. Some individuals suggest taking the pill for 3-4 month blocks followed by a 1 week break. It is best to trial the various versions and dosages to seek the one that suites each individual best.
Intrauterine Device (IUD)
IUD's come in many types. Those that have hormonal doses are the most compatible with treating endometriosis. Copper IUD's are not effective because of the lack of hormones in the device. IUD's can decrease lesion size and menstrual pain. Often times, these are not the first choice of treatment as they do not regulate ovulation and the process of insertion can be difficult for the doctor and extremely painful for the patient due to the cervical canal size. If this is not the case, these options can be beneficial because they are long-term and do not require the patient to remember to take a daily pill. This can be a good option for teens who have a lot of things going on and this responsibility can be a bit much for them.
Progesterone Therapy
The hormone Progesterone will help to thin the lining of the uterus. This can help lighten or stop regular periods and help reduce spotting in a patient. The thinning effect will also help to reduce lesion amount and size. This treatment is often given in pill form. It is often referred to as the "mini pill". Unlike combined oral contraceptives, there is no need to take a break between pill packs. This oral contraceptive shows the best results when it is taken for a long duration of time.
GnRH analogues are a modified version of a hormone that releases gonadotropin. This release controls the menstrual cycle. The treatment slows or stops the production of estrogen, effectively limiting pain and symptoms. This medication can be administered through injections or a nasal spray. The frequency of injections and dosage varies from patient to patient.
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