Endometriosis: It takes a village

Endometriosis: It takes a village to treat

If you’re dealing with endometriosis, you know it’s not just “bad cramps” or “a heavy period.” It can affect your bladder, bowels, pelvic floor, sex life, energy, mental health, and more.

The truth is, no single provider can treat endometriosis fully on their own. It takes a team. It takes a village. And when the right providers work together, the results can be life-changing.

Here’s what that village can look like and how each role supports your healing.

Gynecologist or Endometriosis Specialist

This is usually the first stop. A knowledgeable gynecologist can help with diagnosis, imaging, and management. But if you suspect endo or haven’t gotten relief with basic birth control or pain meds, ask for a referral to a true endometriosis specialist.

They may recommend laparoscopic excision surgery, which is the gold standard for removing endometrial tissue. Not every OB-GYN is trained in this, so finding the right surgeon matters.

Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist

This is where I come in. Endometriosis can cause the pelvic floor to tighten and guard against pain. Over time, this creates its own pain cycle. Pelvic PT can help you:

• Release tension and trigger points in the pelvic muscles

• Improve mobility of the uterus, bladder, and surrounding tissues

• Address painful sex, bowel movements, or bladder issues

• Rebuild strength and function after surgery

  
  

Even if the endo lesions are removed, your body may still be stuck in a pattern of pain. PT helps retrain those patterns.

Mental Health Therapist

Chronic pain takes a toll. It’s exhausting, isolating, and often traumatic. Therapy provides tools for coping with anxiety, grief, and the emotional weight of feeling unheard or misdiagnosed for years. A good therapist can also help with pain-related PTSD or body-based trauma.

Dietician or Functional Medicine Provider

For some people, dietary changes can help reduce inflammation and improve symptoms. This might include reducing certain trigger foods, supporting gut health, or addressing hormonal imbalances. It’s not a cure, but it can be part of a holistic support plan.

Pain Management Specialist

If you’re in constant pain, a pain management provider may offer medications, nerve blocks, or other options to help you function while working on long-term solutions. Pain care should always be compassionate and tailored to your goals.

You Are the Center of the Team

You are the one living with this. Your voice matters. The best care happens when providers work together and listen to you, not just talk at you.

If you’ve felt dismissed or shuffled from appointment to appointment without relief, please know there are clinicians out there who get it and want to help. You should not have to fight this battle alone.

Endometriosis is complex, but you are not broken. Healing is not always linear, and there is no single magic fix. But with the right support team, you can absolutely feel better.

Build your village. You deserve it.