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EndometriosisWomen's Health Information Package
DefinitionEndometriosis is a condition in which endometrium, the tissue that normally lines the uterus, grows elsewhere in the body. This can cause heavy or abnormal bleeding patterns, and 40 percent of women with endometriosis have difficulties with fertility. The condition is often painful, and can have a profound impact on a woman's quality of life.
About the information resourcesThe resources on endometriosis contained in this information package were compiled following an extensive search of Women's Health Victoria 's (WHV) Clearinghouse Resource Collection database. The resources contain information relating to:
Included are details of relevant books, journals, articles, web sites, pamphlets, videos or DVDs that have been independently reviewed by a health professional. The emphasis is on the Australian situation and a social model of health and feminist approach provide the framework within which information is provided. Where possible, illustrations of women's experiences are provided. All of these resources and a range of others (not listed here) covering many topics from both medical and alternative therapy perspectives are available from the WHV Clearinghouse Resource Centre. A description of how Women's Health Information packages are developed and resources chosen is available here.
General1. Explaining endometriosis (2nd ed) This book, written by Australian women living with endometriosis, provides a consumer's perspective of Australian and international research. It covers causes and development of endometriosis, and answers many questions about biomedical and complementary therapies. It is a detailed book directed at women who want more than just basic information, and health professionals who want to understand a variety of treatment options.
 2. The gynecological sourcebook (4th ed) An invaluable guide for consumers, this book explains environmental and medical factors in the development of endometriosis. It offers medical, surgical, herbal, dietary and exercise options in treatment, as well as the potential side effects. It is also worthwhile for clinicians wanting to offer their clients a more holistic approach to endometriosis management.
3. Endometriosis : the complete reference for taking charge of your health This book is a well-researched, extensive source of information. Medical, surgical and dietary approaches are addressed, which can assist clinicians in taking a holistic approach to treatment. There is a section on women's stories, and a list of frequently asked questions to help dispel endometriosis myths.
4. Endometriosis Full text available here. Directed at clinicians, this article looks at the current medicosurgical options for treatment, and critically assesses their efficacy and side effects, and the impact treatments can have on a woman's life.
5. Endometriosis: will identifying risk factors enable an early diagnosis? Useful article for clinicians' understanding of risk factors, clinical manifestations, and treatment options in endometriosis. The approach is mainly biomedical, but the importance of listening to women's health concerns is emphasised.
Complementary therapies and nutritional approaches6. Women, hormones and the menstrual cycle : herbal and medical solutions from adolescence to menopause (2nd ed) This book provides both a medical and complementary medicine approach. It is a definitive work on herbal therapies for health professionals and interested consumers. The book has been written with a woman-centred focus. The author is a highly qualified Melbourne-based herbalist, who has a background in nursing and midwifery. Note: the layperson's version of the book, Women's trouble, by Ruth Trickey and Kaz Cooke (Allen & Unwin, 1999) is a handy resource for women who want an overview of complementary therapies.
7. Endometriosis : natural and medical solutions This is an easy-to-read, humorous look at living with endometriosis, including treatment options from the complementary and biomedical perspectives. Naturopathic consultant, Ruth Trickey, is a respected expert on herbal therapies for women's health. A helpful resource for clinicians wanting to expand their treatment options, and for women wanting to know more about their bodies.
8. Natural therapies for the treatment of endometriosis Full text available here (PDF 146KB) A useful reference tool that explains endometriosis, and outlines how herbal medicine, homoeopathy, nutrition, Chinese medicine, Ayurveda, chiropractic, massage and yoga can assist in treating the condition. There is also a resource list for further reading. The author is a respected Melbourne naturopath.
9. When menstruation misfires: herbs for endometriosis Excellent article for clinicians seeking a better understanding of the naturopathic / herbal approach to treating endometriosis.
10. Endometriosis: a key to healing through nutrition This book provides comprehensive information about how nutrition can help manage the symptoms of endometriosis. It includes information on specific food, recipes and practical tips. A useful resource for women wanting to have greater control over their health.
Research11. Laparoscopic surgery for subfertility associated with endometriosis (review) Full text available here. This review assesses the outcomes of laparoscopic surgery in treating endometriosis and associated subfertility. The article acknowledges the importance of discussing possible options with the woman to find what suits her best, and assesses randomised controlled trials carried out on laparoscopy for infertility.
12. Focus group study of endometriosis: struggle, loss and the medical merry-go-round An illuminating Australian study into women's experiences of living with endometriosis, finding a doctor who suited their needs, and regaining control over their lives.
13. Women's experience of endometriosis An excellent article on how endometriosis affects all aspects of a woman's quality of life: physical, psychosexual, social, and work. This qualitative analysis is important reading for health professionals to better understand the challenges women frequently encounter when seeking clinical assistance with endometriosis.
14. How strong is the evidence of a link between environmental chemicals and adverse effects on human reproductive health? Full text available here. This is a thought-provoking article for clinicians to consider when looking for causes of endometriosis. The author suggests that more research is needed, but there are website links to find regularly updated information on environmental chemicals.
15. Understanding and managing endometriosis Full text available here (PDF 97KB) This resource has been compiled by an Australian support group. It gives women information about diagnosis, treatment options, and living positively with endometriosis. There is a section specifically for younger women, and links to numerous endometriosis sites on the Internet. A handy glossary of medical terms is a good reference for consumers. A useful site for health promotion.
16. Preparing for a laparoscopy Full text available here (PDF 73KB) This brochure provides practical information for women preparing for a laparoscopy - a procedure used for diagnosing and treating endometriosis. The procedure is explained simply, and consumers are informed about what to expect before, during and after laparoscopy.
17. Tips for dealing with painful intercourse This article is directed at consumers, and offers tips on minimising pain during vaginal intercourse. The advice given is practical and can be implemented by women and their partners.
Web sites18. Endometriosis Association of Victoria The web site of a self-help organisation, which provides support and information for women with endometriosis. The site offers numerous links to other Australian and international resources. The glossary of medical terms is particularly helpful.
19. Treating Endometriosis This site gives women an overview of endometriosis, including medical and surgical options and side effects. The site is a portal into the clinics offered by the Royal Women's Hospital, and has links to fact sheets in languages other than English.
20. Better Health Channel: Endometriosis This website is maintained by the Victorian Department of Human Services, and is a useful starting point for women needing an overview of endometriosis and its treatment. There are referral phone numbers, and links to related issues such as hysterectomy.
An international private web site partly funded through sales of the video 'Endometriosis the Inside Story', as well as sponsored links to online booksellers. Provides consumer information, research articles and details of support groups and seminars around the world. A comprehensive site for health professionals and consumers.
The editorial board of this international website includes an Australian representative. There is a wealth of information on this site, including resources for consumers and clinicians. Issues including fertility, young women's health, diet, new research and resources are covered. There is coverage of medical, surgical and other treatment options, as well as women's stories and quality of life experiences.
Languages other than EnglishIf you are looking for information on a variety of health topics in languages other than English try searching:
Some services available in Victoria1. Endometriosis Association of Victoria : http://www.endometriosis.org.au Provides information and support Phone (03) 9457 2933; Email: info@endometriosis.org.au 9am-4pm Tuesdays and Thursdays; answering service at other times
2. ECCA (Endometriosis Care Centre of Australia) : http://www.ecca.com.au Private clinic that uses medical and complementary approaches to treating endometriosis Phone (03) 9415 6855; Fax 03 9416 4274; Email: admin@ecca.com.au
3. Epworth Endometriosis Centre : http://www.endometriosis.com.au/ Private clinic established in conjunction with the Endometriosis Association Phone (03) 9428 7743
4. Gynaecology Clinic at the Royal Women's Hospital : http:// www.rwh.org.au Public hospital with a range of gynaecological, obstetric and health information services Phone (03) 9344 2183
Resources reviewed July 2005 For details on how to locate any of this information or to confidentially discuss any of this information, contact your local Women’s Health Service or the RWH Women's Health Information Centre phone line, Monday to Friday 9am-5pm on (03) 9344 2007; Country Callers: 1800 442 007; or email. Health professionals and other service providers wishing to access the services of the WHV Clearinghouse contact us by phone: (03) 9662 3755, fax: (03) 9663 7955; or email. Other resource information on various health topics can be accessed via the Clearinghouse Resource Collection database. Online access is available here.
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