Learning to manage your pain rather than the pain managing you is a very important factor in your care, you will be given advice on how to take medications in conjunction with other treatments and lifestyle changes to improve your quality of life.
For more information, read the Endometriosis UK factsheet on pain management for endometriosis.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen and naproxen, are usually the preferred painkiller used to treat endometriosis.
This is because they act against the inflammation (swelling) caused by endometriosis, as well as helping to ease pain and discomfort. It is best to take NSAIDs the day before (or several days before) you expect the period pain.
Paracetamol can be used to treat mild pain. It is not usually as effective as NSAIDs, but may be used if NSAIDs cause any side effects, such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea.
Codeine is a stronger painkiller that is sometimes combined with paracetamol or used alone if other painkillers are not suitable. However, constipation is a common side effect, which may aggravate the symptoms of endometriosis.
TENS machines (Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation). For some patients (especially those that do not like to take tablets) a small portable TENs machine helps provide pain relief. Your Specialist nurse or the pain management team can provide you more information on how to use and where to buy a TENs machine from.