Complementary therapies for endometriosis associated pain: An extensive survey

Abstract

Objective

Our primary objective is to evaluate the use of complementary therapies among women with endometriosis to manage chronic pelvic pain. As a secondary objective, the study aims to assess satisfaction levels with these therapies and respondents' perceptions of their impact on the disease.

Material and methods

Patients were recruited at Centre Hospitalier des Escartons de Briançon, with help from EndoFrance Association and social media. Women with a history of endometriosis and chronic pain were invited to complete an anonymous online form via Google Forms.

Results

Between March and July 2022, 24.337 patients were invited to complete a questionnaire, with 778 responses, resulting in a 3.2% response rate. The average age of respondents was 35 years. Among those, 671 patients (86%) were using non-pharmacological therapies for endometriosis-related pain. The most common treatments included osteopathy (56%), anti-inflammatory diet (56%), sophrology (46%), yoga (46%), and physiotherapy (42%), with many using multiple treatments. Satisfaction levels ranged from 69% to 27%, with osteopathy and yoga being the most appreciated. Furthermore, 58% of patients reported reducing their conventional analgesic intake. Despite the widespread use of complementary therapies and 83% of patients discussing them with healthcare providers, 43% of respondents expressed distrust in their doctors regarding these therapies.

Conclusion

Complementary medicine is commonly utilized by women with endometriosis to alleviate pain, potentially decreasing reliance on conventional medications. As such, it represents a valuable alternative and supplementary option for pain management. Consequently, it should be considered as part of the treatment plan for all women with endometriosis.