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View Full PDFEndometriosis in Teens:
Living with Endometriosis
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Adolescence and young adulthood are challenging times. Including a diagnosis of endometriosis can certainly add to typical stresses. Your daughter's treatment team is aware of both the physical and psychological implications of teens living with endometriosis. Her treatment plan will consider her age, level of maturity, and lifestyle.
It is essential that your daughter have a clear understanding of endometriosis so that she can learn to live with her disease. Reading about endometriosis and asking for resources from her health care provider are good ways to accept her diagnosis and find ways to effectively cope with pain and potential side effects from medical treatment. Many adolescents and young women are hesitant to have discussions about their bodies with their parents, particularly regarding gynecological issues or concerns. It is important for your daughter to develop a sense of autonomy and responsibility for her body. However, parents often feel "out of the loop" when their daughters do not talk about their feelings and thoughts freely. It is vital to clearly communicate your willingness to listen to your daughter and discuss her diagnosis of endometriosis. Sometimes the most supportive conversations between parents and their adolescents occur in the most casual of settings, such as in the car or on a walk. Regardless, it will be comforting to her if you are available and willing to talk when she feels like sharing her concerns.
What else do I need to know about endometriosis?
- Young women CAN suffer from symptoms of endometriosis. Medical studies have found this disease in teenagers and young children.
- Endometriosis is NOT an STD (sexually transmitted disease).
- Chronic pelvic pain is not normal. Most young women have none or mild to moderate menstrual cramps one or two days a month. If your daughter is absent from school excessively due to pelvic pain or menstrual cramps, consult with her health care provider.
- Endometriosis occurs among women of ALL races.
- Getting pregnant does NOT cure this disease but may improve symptoms for some women. Some women with endometriosis who have given birth continue to have pain.
The goals of your daughter’s treatment should be aimed at relieving her pain, controlling the progression of her endometriosis and preserving her fertility for future childbearing. Comprehensive and early treatment can make a big difference in improving her quality of life. Medical science is constantly moving ahead. Ask your daughter's health care provider for more information about teens and endometriosis.
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Updated: 9/11/2009
