Endometriosis is a gynaecological disease defined by the presence, outside the uterus, of fragments of uterine mucosa (endometrium) or endometrial tissue.
After ovulation, the uterine lining thickens to prepare for the potential implantation of a fertilised egg. If fertilisation does not occur, menstruation follows. In the case of endometriosis, some endometrial cells migrate outside the uterus and settle on other organs in the abdomen, where they provoke an inflammatory reaction and form lesions and scars.
Characteristics and Hormonal Sensitivity
Endometriosis lesions display the same characteristics as the uterine lining. Thus, they are sensitive to ovarian hormones (oestrogen) and, during each menstrual cycle, they grow and bleed. This is why endometriosis is described as an oestrogen-dependent disease.
Endometriosis manifests in women of childbearing age (that is, during the period of genital activity), sometimes as early as puberty and the first menstrual periods. It is a chronic illness that regresses at menopause. It may present itself as pelvic, abdominal, or more diffuse pain, or it may be painless and cause infertility.
Relieving Endometriosis Pain
The management of endometriosis pain includes non-drug approaches such as Anti-Pain TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation).
Electrostimulation Sessions for Endometriosis
Short-term effect: Treatment is inspired by the "Gate Control" theory.
Short- and medium-term effect: Low-frequency stimulation (Muscular Pain progamme) mainly increases endorphin production and reduces muscle tone.
With Compex, you can alternate TENS sessions and relaxation sessions to relieve pain.
Setting Up Compex Programmes
ANTI-PAIN TENS Programme
✅Programme: TENS
Duration and course of treatment: Throughout the acute phase and as long as inflammatory signs persist.
As soon as the first signs of pain appear and until they disappear, connect your TENS at least once a day. There are no time contraindications; you may carry out several stimulations on the same day.
📍 Electrode placement:
If pain is felt in the back, you may choose to place the electrodes on the back. The important thing is to place the electrodes on the painful area or to frame it.
🧘 Body position:
Place yourself in the most comfortable neutral position (lying down or semi-seated).
⚙️ Intensity setting:
Desired effect: Achieve a pronounced tingling sensation, but not painful.
Gradually increase stimulation intensity until you feel a distinct tingling sensation. Raising the stimulation intensity to a higher level does not provide additional effectiveness and may trigger muscle contractions, which are undesirable for this treatment.
For devices equipped with mi-TENS technology: As soon as a contraction is detected, stimulation intensity is automatically reduced.
Muscle Pain Programme
Thanks to its parameters, the Muscle Pain programme promotes the release of muscle contractures. It therefore primarily contributes to improved comfort and wellbeing.
Compex muscle relaxation session
📍 Electrode placement
For electrode placement, the T10 vertebra appears to be the most appropriate location (lumbar area, innervation of the genital and uterine systems).
🧘 Body position
Adopt the most comfortable neutral position (lying down or semiseated).
⚙️ Intensity adjustment
The stimulation intensity should be adjusted to a sufficient level to produce a sensation of muscle twitching. The intensity can be freely adjusted throughout the session according to personal comfort and perception.
Bibliographical References
Conclusion
Electrostimulation is a relevant and accessible approach for managing pain associated with endometriosis. Thanks to programmes specifically designed to address both pain and muscle tension, Compex devices enable regular use that can be adapted to each user’s needs and sensations.
When applied from the onset of pain and integrated into a comprehensive care strategy, TENS helps limit the daily impact of the condition. By offering a safe, autonomous, and nondrug alternative, electrostimulation stands out as a valuable ally in improving comfort and overall wellbeing for women affected by endometriosis.
