OWM Book Review: Coping with Endometriosis

   Coping With Endometriosis is an easy-to-read, compassionate book that provides concrete information about a common, but frequently misunderstood condition. Philips and Motta offer facts and information about symptoms and current treatment modalities, along with a host of strategies to promote an optimal level of well being.

   Endometriosis is largely unknown and misunderstood by the general public. A disease of the female reproductive system, endometriosis can cause painful growths, infertility, and bleeding. Subsequent psychological and emotional problems related to the disease also should not be ignored. The physical symptoms of the disease vary greatly and are often unpredictable. The main symptoms include pain, fatigue, heavy or irregular bleeding, fertility problems, and bladder or bowel complications. In addition to the physical symptoms of the disease, depression, anxiety, denial, self-blame, and anger may be present and are addressed in the text.

   The authors provide information about the normal menstrual cycle and describe situations where endometrial tissue is implanted outside the uterus and how this tissue responds to hormonal changes. Endometrial tissue has been found in and around the reproductive, gastrointestinal, and genito-urinary organs, as well as in the diaphragm, lung, brain, arm, and thigh regions. The endometrial tissue responds to monthly hormonal changes by swelling, filling with blood, and attempting to "shed" like the uterus. This ultimately results in a cycle that interferes with normal function.

   The answers to the questions of why endometriosis occurs and how endometrial cells travel to other areas of the body are still being researched. Several under investigation are discussed in the text. Usual and unusual symptoms are described in detail and treatment strategies are outlined. The authors stress that each patient is a unique individual, requiring a unique treatment regimen.

   Information is provided about medical, surgical, and nonmedical components of treatment. Medical options include Danazol, GnRH agonists, birth control pills, and new investigational drugs and their action in the disease course are described. Information about alternative therapies such as traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture/acupressure, herbal remedies, and massage therapy, as well as descriptions of surgical treatments such as laparotomy, hysterectomy, and other surgeries, are provided.

   An entire section of the book is devoted to dealing with the psychosocial aspects of the disease. Coping with emotions is discussed in detail. The reader is offered concrete suggestions that may provide a sense of support. In addition, a section is devoted to significant others to provide tips and strategies for living with a person suffering from endometriosis.

   Recent research on endometriosis focuses on a link between a disease and a woman's diet. A diet low in fat and high in fiber and antioxidants is encouraged. Foods containing vitamins B, C, and E, as well as minerals such as zinc, iron, calcium, and magnesium may help with symptom control. Exercise is also encouraged as a way to lower a woman's body fat, which will lower levels of estrogen and possible toxins that may worsen symptoms. Overall, exercise promotes an increased sense of well being and this, too, is beneficial. The patient suffering from endometriosis should do everything possible to gain a sense of empowerment and control.

   Because endometriosis is a disease that potentially affects more than 5 million women, teenagers, and their significant others, this book is a welcome source of information, both for those with the disease and those caring for them. Written without pretense and presented in a straightforward manner, the book addresses the disease with matter-of-fact directness and respect for the women it affects, repeating information where necessary to stress important points. The knowledge acquired by the patient, significant others, and caregivers dealing with endometriosis will promote optimal outcomes.