Complementary therapies for endometriosis associated pain: An extensive survey

Objective: Our primary objective is to evaluate the use of complementary therapies among women with endometriosis to manage chronic pelvic pain. As a secondary objective, the study aims to assess satisfaction levels with these therapies and respondents' perceptions of their impact on the disease. Material and methods: Patients were recruited at Centre Hospitalier des Escartons de Briançon, with help from EndoFrance Association and social media. Women with a history of endometriosis and chronic pain were invited to complete an anonymous online form via Google Forms. Results: Between March and July 2022, 24.337 patients were invited to complete a questionnaire, with 778 responses, resulting in a 3.2% response rate. The average age of respondents was 35 years. Among those, 671 patients (86%) were using non-pharmacological therapies for endometriosis-related pain. The most common treatments included osteopathy (56%), anti-inflammatory diet (56%), sophrology (46%), yoga (46%), and physiotherapy (42%), with many using multiple treatments. Satisfaction levels ranged from 69% to 27%, with osteopathy and yoga being the most appreciated. Furthermore, 58% of patients reported reducing their conventional analgesic intake. Despite the widespread use of complementary therapies and 83% of patients discussing them with healthcare providers, 43% of respondents expressed distrust in their doctors regarding these therapies. Conclusion: Complementary medicine is commonly utilized by women with endometriosis to alleviate pain, potentially decreasing reliance on conventional medications. As such, it represents a valuable alternative and supplementary option for pain management. Consequently, it should be considered as part of the treatment plan for all women with endometriosis.