Endometriosis is a condition where cells from the uterine lining (endometrium) begin growing outside of the uterus. They may grow on the bladder, bowel, fallopian tubes, or even the ovaries themselves. Endometriosis can cause mild to severe pelvic pain that generally coincides with a woman's period but may constant in more acute cases. Endometriosis can even cause pain during sex and it is no exaggeration to say that the condition can truly make it difficult to go about one's daily activities. However, there are things that a woman with endometriosis can do which will help minimize the symptoms.

Cutting back on caffeine is one way to help minimize the effects of endometriosis. It is proven that caffeine promotes increased estrogen levels. While estrogen has not been specifically linked to the pain experienced during endometriosis, most healthcare professionals agree that the hormone certainly does not help the condition. As its best to be safe than sorry, reducing caffeine intake is a great idea for any woman with endometriosis.

Much of the pain associated with endometriosis is due to inflammation. Prostaglandins are known to cause inflammation within the body. To minimize the effects of the prostaglandins and reduce inflammation, try taking anti-inflammatories like ibuprofen. In most cases, over-the-counter anti-inflammatories will be sufficient to significantly reduce pain caused by endometriosis. However, in particularly severe cases, it may also be necessary to use pain killers such as codeine to cope with the condition.

As with any medical condition, endometriosis symptoms will be less severe if you maintain a proper diet and get plenty of sleep. Prolonged periods of activity mean that your body is constantly in motion and aggravating the inflamed areas affected by the endometriosis. Sleep allows the body to rest and the swelling to subside.

Eating a proper diet like the one advised by the FDA via their newly revised food pyramid is highly recommended. If the body is starved for nutrients or otherwise deprived, it is easier for endometriosis to spread to other areas of the body. It is important to remain healthy in order to prevent the condition from worsening.

Endometriosis has no known cure at present so the best people with the condition can hope for at present is to minimize the symptoms. Reducing caffeine intake, getting plenty of sleep and maintaining a proper diet, and using anti-inflammatories or pain killers seem to be the most effective means of coping with the symptoms. If you suspect that you may be suffering from endometriosis, be sure to consult with your physician immediately.