Managing Pain with Balance, Not Just Surgery
If you’re living with severe period pain, painful intercourse, or pelvic discomfort that doesn’t go away, endometriosis might be the cause. While many women think surgery is the only answer, hormonal therapy can be a powerful, non-invasive way to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
At Dr. Richa Gangwar’s clinic in Lucknow, we help women understand all their options — and hormonal therapy is often a gentle yet effective first step. Here’s how it works and what you can expect.
What Is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus (endometrium) grows outside the uterus — commonly on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, bladder, or intestines. This tissue:
- Responds to monthly hormones, just like the uterus
- Bleeds and breaks down during periods
- Has no way to exit the body, causing pain, inflammation, and scar tissue
Symptoms can include:
- Severe menstrual cramps
- Pelvic pain between periods
- Painful bowel movements or urination
- Pain during intimacy
- Difficulty conceiving
Why Hormonal Therapy?
Endometriosis is hormone-sensitive, meaning estrogen fuels the growth of endometrial tissue. Hormonal therapy works by:
- Lowering estrogen levels in the body
- Reducing or stopping ovulation
- Thinning the endometrial tissue — both inside and outside the uterus
- Easing inflammation and pain
The goal is not to cure endometriosis (which currently has no permanent cure), but to control symptoms and prevent progression.
Types of Hormonal Treatments for Endometriosis
💊 1. Combined Oral Contraceptives (Birth Control Pills)
These pills contain both estrogen and progestin.
How they help:
- Regulate or stop monthly bleeding
- Reduce pelvic pain and cramps
- Can be used cyclically or continuously to prevent periods
They are commonly used in young women not trying to conceive and are safe for long-term symptom control.
💉 2. Progestin-Only Therapies
Includes:
- Oral progestin tablets
- Progestin-releasing IUD (like Mirena)
- Injectable progestin (DMPA)
How they help:
- Suppress menstrual cycles
- Thin the uterine lining
- Reduce endometrial growth and bleeding
These options are ideal for women who cannot take estrogen or who prefer a long-term, low-maintenance solution.
🧬 3. GnRH Agonists and Antagonists
These are advanced hormonal therapies that create a temporary menopause-like state.
How they help:
- Dramatically reduce estrogen
- Shrink endometrial lesions
- Provide relief from severe pain
Because they can cause temporary side effects like hot flashes or bone loss, they are usually used for short periods (3–6 months) and may be combined with “add-back” therapy to protect bone health.
🩺 4. Danazol (Less Common)
Danazol suppresses ovulation and lowers estrogen but may have more side effects, such as acne or voice changes. It is less commonly used today due to better-tolerated alternatives.
Choosing the Right Hormonal Treatment
The best option depends on:
- Severity of symptoms
- Age and fertility goals
- Response to previous treatments
- Medical history (such as blood pressure, diabetes, or PCOD)
At Dr. Richa Gangwar’s clinic, we work closely with each woman to create a personalized care plan that prioritizes comfort, safety, and long-term wellbeing.
Can Hormonal Therapy Help with Fertility?
Hormonal therapy cannot improve fertility directly, since it suppresses ovulation. However, it:
- Controls endometriosis progression
- Reduces inflammation
- Prepares the body for future pregnancy plans
Women trying to conceive may be advised non-hormonal treatments or a temporary hormonal plan followed by fertility guidance.
What to Expect During Treatment
Most women report:
- Reduced period pain within 2–3 months
- Fewer heavy bleeding days
- Improved energy and mood
Possible side effects may include:
- Mild nausea or breast tenderness
- Mood changes
- Breakthrough bleeding initially
All hormonal treatments are monitored regularly at our clinic to ensure safety and adjust as needed.
When Hormonal Therapy May Not Be Enough
In some cases, hormonal treatment may not fully relieve symptoms. This may be due to:
- Severe scarring or adhesions
- Ovarian endometriomas (chocolate cysts)
- Advanced stage endometriosis
In such cases, we may recommend laparoscopic surgery to remove visible lesions — followed by hormonal therapy to prevent recurrence.
Final Thoughts: You Deserve Relief
Living with endometriosis is not just about physical pain — it affects your mental, social, and emotional health. Hormonal therapy is a gentle yet effective first-line option that can help you reclaim control over your life.
At Dr. Richa Gangwar’s clinic in Lucknow, we are here to support you with:
- Accurate diagnosis and education
- Non-surgical and surgical options
- Fertility counselling if needed
- Compassionate, ongoing care
