{"id":10358,"date":"2023-01-25T20:52:28","date_gmt":"2023-01-25T20:52:28","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/?p=10358"},"modified":"2023-07-03T15:49:38","modified_gmt":"2023-07-03T14:49:38","slug":"what-is-an-endometriosis-flare-up","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/what-is-an-endometriosis-flare-up\/","title":{"rendered":"What is an endometriosis flare up? Tips for exercising with endo"},"content":{"rendered":"<style>img#mv-trellis-img-1::before{padding-top:192.1200750469%; }img#mv-trellis-img-1{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-2::before{padding-top:149.92679355783%; }img#mv-trellis-img-2{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-3::before{padding-top:149.92679355783%; }img#mv-trellis-img-3{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-4::before{padding-top:150%; }img#mv-trellis-img-4{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-5::before{padding-top:149.92679355783%; }img#mv-trellis-img-5{display:block;}<\/style>\n<p>Despite what many may think, endometriosis (also known as &lsquo;endo&rsquo;) is more than just a painful period.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Millions of women worldwide suffer with this painful condition, many of which have to live with pain on a daily basis, not just during their period. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As an invisible illness, it can be hard for people to understand that endometriosis can have a significant impact on those living with the disease.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Run With Caroline founder <a href=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/about-me-info\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"1598\">Caroline<\/a> was diagnosed with endometriosis in 2019 so she knows the impact that the disease can have on everyday life:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>&ldquo;Before I was diagnosed with endometriosis, I experienced symptoms that would quite literally stop me in my tracks.&nbsp;If I decided to go for a run, pain would often cut my long run short.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Since my diagnosis, I have had to approach my life and exercise routine differently. Although I&rsquo;ve found ways to manage the disease, I am still coming to terms with my diagnosis. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Endometriosis flare ups are commonplace for some of those living with the disease, so you really have to learn ways to manage your symptoms.&rdquo;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you&rsquo;re suffering with endometriosis flare ups and wondering how best to deal with them, especially during exercise, then this guide has got you covered. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In this guide we&rsquo;ll explore:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>What is endometriosis?&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>What causes endometriosis?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>What are symptoms of endometriosis?&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>What is an endometriosis flare up?&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>What causes an endometriosis flare up?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>What are the symptoms of an endometriosis flare up?&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>How long does an endometriosis flare up last?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>5 tips for exercising with endometriosis&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Where can I find out more about endometriosis?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Ready?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Let&rsquo;s go!&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"533\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-533x1024.png\" alt=\"endometriosis flare up\" class=\"wp-image-10360\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-533x1024.png 533w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-156x300.png 156w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-768x1475.png 768w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-500x960.png 500w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-625x1200.png 625w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-150x288.png 150w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up.png 1000w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 48px), 720px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"eager\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"533\" height=\"1024\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20533%201024'%3E%3Crect%20width='533'%20height='1024'%20style='fill:%23e3e3e3'\/%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" alt=\"endometriosis flare up\" class=\"wp-image-10360 eager-load\" title=\"\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 48px), 720px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up.png\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-1\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-533x1024.png.webp\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-533x1024.png.webp 533w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-156x300.png.webp 156w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-768x1475.png.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-500x960.png.webp 500w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-625x1200.png.webp 625w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-150x288.png.webp 150w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up.png.webp 1000w\" data-svg=\"1\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What is endometriosis?&nbsp;<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Endometriosis (pronounced endo-mee-tree-osis) is an inflammatory disease where tissue normally found in the lining of the womb grows in other parts of the body such as the ovaries, bladder, bowel and appendix.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It is estimated that 1 in 10 women have endometriosis, and it can affect any woman of reproductive age.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Shockingly, it takes on average 8 years to receive a diagnosis for endometriosis.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>According to a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5737931\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">2018 study<\/a>, despite a range of symptoms, diagnosis of endometriosis is often delayed due to lack of non-invasive, definitive and consistent biomarkers for diagnosis of endometriosis.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It is also thought that there are still problems with misinformation in the medical community when it comes to diagnosing endometriosis. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The primary cause of this is that women&rsquo;s reproductive health conditions like endometriosis tend to receive less funding for research. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In addition, a lot of damaging taboos still exist today when it comes to menstrual health. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>According to an article from Medical News Today:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Women&rsquo;s reproductive health attracts far less research funding than almost all other medical research.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Society&rsquo;s reluctance to speak plainly about periods is one of the reasons why issues with women&rsquo;s reproductive health are so underrecognised and under researched.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Related: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/how-to-stop-vaginal-chafing-when-running\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"10386\">How to stop vaginal chafing when running<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What causes endometriosis?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>There are several theories behind what causes endometriosis, but more research is needed to understand the primary causes of the condition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>According to the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/conditions\/endometriosis\/#:~:text=The%20cause%20of%20endometriosis%20is,defence%20against%20illness%20and%20infection\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">NHS<\/a>, several theories have been suggested, including:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Genetics <\/strong>&ndash; the condition tends to run in families and affects people of certain ethnic groups more than others.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>A problem with the immune system<\/strong> &ndash; the body&rsquo;s natural defence against illness and infection.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Endometrium cells spreading through the body<\/strong> &ndash; in the bloodstream or lymphatic system.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Unfortunately, there is no cure for endometriosis.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Related:&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/successfully-running-with-a-chronic-illness\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"5301\">6 tips for successfully running with a chronic illness<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-1-683x1024.png\" alt=\"endometriosis flare up\" class=\"wp-image-10362\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-1-683x1024.png 683w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-1-200x300.png 200w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-1-768x1152.png 768w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-1-640x960.png 640w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-1-720x1080.png 720w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-1-800x1200.png 800w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-1-150x225.png 150w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-1.png 1000w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 48px), 720px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-1-683x1024.png.webp\" alt=\"endometriosis flare up\" class=\"wp-image-10362 lazyload\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-1-683x1024.png.webp 683w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-1-200x300.png.webp 200w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-1-768x1152.png.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-1-640x960.png.webp 640w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-1-720x1080.png.webp 720w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-1-800x1200.png.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-1-150x225.png.webp 150w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-1.png.webp 1000w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 48px), 720px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-1.png\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-2\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Related: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/exercise-after-hernia-surgery\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"11927\">Exercise after hernia surgery: The complete guide for women<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What are the symptoms of endometriosis?&nbsp;<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Endometriosis has a wide range of symptoms and symptoms can vary person to person.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The top reported pain is pelvic pain, and often the pain correlates with the menstrual cycle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>One study on 246 women at reproductive age with confirmed endometriosis concluded that 77.2% of women were symptomatic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Adding that the most common complaints were:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Pelvic pain (71.1%)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Dysmenorrhea (menstrual cramps) (69%)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Dyspareunia (painful intercourse) (45.2%)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>The severity of the disease often doesn&rsquo;t correlate with the intensity of symptoms.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Some women, for example, have a severe form of the disease but don&rsquo;t have painful symptoms.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Other women on the other hand have a mild form of the disease but suffer with painful symptoms.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In addition, other conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can cause similar symptoms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It is for these reasons that endometriosis is often hard to diagnose or is mis-diagnosed as a bowel or digestive disorder. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/32007945\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">One 2020 United States study<\/a>&nbsp;recorded that:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>75.2% of patients with endometriosis reported being misdiagnosed with another physical health condition.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>95.1% of patients were diagnosed with a mental health problem. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>49.5% of patients reported being diagnosed with both before they received an endometriosis diagnosis.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>According to a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC7277332\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">2020 study<\/a>, patients with the symptomatic course of the disease present higher levels of stress, somatisation and fatigue in daily life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Symptoms of endometriosis include:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Painful periods&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Heavy periods<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pelvic pain&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bloating (also known as &lsquo;endo belly&rsquo;)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Brain fog<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Tiredness and fatigue<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Leg pain<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/lower-back-pain-after-running\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"9123\">Lower back pain<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pain on either side of the pelvis&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pain during and after sex&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pain when urinating<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pain when pooping<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Blood in your poop&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Constipation&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Diarrhoea&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Nausea&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Infertility&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Difficulty getting pregnant<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bleeding before and after your period<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Related:&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/should-you-work-out-on-your-period\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"10067\">Should you work out on your period? 6 best exercises to do on your period<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Related: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/does-chocolate-help-with-period-cramps\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"10912\">Does chocolate help with period cramps? Everything you need to know<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What is an endometriosis flare up?&nbsp;<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>An endometriosis flare up is when symptoms become exacerbated.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Flare ups intensify symptoms of the disease and typically subside after a few hours, but they can be debilitating.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>They can be triggered by a number of different things &ndash; more on that below.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Related:&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/what-is-runners-face\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"9465\">What is runner&rsquo;s face? Causes + 10 prevention tips<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What causes an endometriosis flare up?&nbsp;<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>An endometriosis flare up can be caused by:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Changes in the menstrual cycle &ndash; <\/strong>some women experience flare ups at different times of their menstrual cycle, for example in the days leading up to their period.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Changes in activity levels <\/strong>&ndash; increased or decreased activity levels can cause symptoms to flare up&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Changes in diet <\/strong>&ndash; some inflammatory foods like caffeine, alcohol and red meat are thought to exacerbate endometriosis symptoms.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Changes in the weather &ndash; <\/strong>some women with endometriosis have reported that cold weather can cause their symptoms to flare up<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Changes in stress levels &ndash; <\/strong>increased levels of the stress hormone cortisol can cause endometriosis to flare up&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Changes in sleep &ndash; <\/strong>a bad night&rsquo;s sleep or poor sleep habits can cause symptoms to worsen.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Related:&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/what-does-running-do-for-your-body\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"10159\">What does running do for your body? 10 benefits of running<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-2-683x1024.png\" alt=\"endometriosis flare up\" class=\"wp-image-10363\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-2-683x1024.png 683w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-2-200x300.png 200w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-2-768x1152.png 768w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-2-640x960.png 640w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-2-720x1080.png 720w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-2-800x1200.png 800w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-2-150x225.png 150w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-2.png 1000w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 48px), 720px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-2-683x1024.png.webp\" alt=\"endometriosis flare up\" class=\"wp-image-10363 lazyload\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-2-683x1024.png.webp 683w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-2-200x300.png.webp 200w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-2-768x1152.png.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-2-640x960.png.webp 640w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-2-720x1080.png.webp 720w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-2-800x1200.png.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-2-150x225.png.webp 150w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-2.png.webp 1000w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 48px), 720px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-2.png\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-3\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Related: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/moisture-wicking-underwear\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"11039\">Moisture wicking underwear: Benefits + where to buy<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What are the symptoms of an endometriosis flare up?&nbsp;<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>You may be wondering: &ldquo;What does an endometriosis flare up feel like?&rdquo;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Flare up symptoms can vary person to person, but reported systems are:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Severe pelvic pain&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bloating&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Diarrhoea&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Nausea<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Tiredness and fatigue&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Lower back pain&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Leg pain&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A burning sensation in the pelvis<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A tugging sensation in the pelvis<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>To give you an idea of how bad an endometriosis flare up can get, here are how some women describe a endometriosis flare up:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>&ldquo;It feels like my insides are being carved out like a pumpkin.&rdquo;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>&ldquo;It feels like someone is prodding my insides with a hot poker.&rdquo;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>&ldquo;It feels like there is an animal trapped inside my pelvis and lower back and it&rsquo;s trying to claw its way out.&rdquo;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Related:&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/how-to-get-a-runners-body\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"9863\">How to get a runner&rsquo;s body: Characteristics + 6 training tips<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>How long does an endometriosis flare up last?&nbsp;<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Depending on the severity of symptoms, a flare up can last anywhere between a few minutes to a few hours.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Some women experience multiple flare ups in a single day.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Other women experience only one or two over a period of a few months.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It really depends on your own unique set of symptoms.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Related:&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/exercise-during-ivf\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"10211\">Can you exercise during IVF? Tips + exercises to avoid<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1000\" height=\"1500\" src=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-4.png\" alt=\"endometriosis flare up\" class=\"wp-image-10365\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-4.png 1000w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-4-200x300.png 200w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-4-683x1024.png 683w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-4-768x1152.png 768w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-4-640x960.png 640w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-4-720x1080.png 720w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-4-800x1200.png 800w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-4-150x225.png 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 48px), 720px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1000\" height=\"1500\" src=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-4.png.webp\" alt=\"endometriosis flare up\" class=\"wp-image-10365 lazyload\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-4.png.webp 1000w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-4-200x300.png.webp 200w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-4-683x1024.png.webp 683w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-4-768x1152.png.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-4-640x960.png.webp 640w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-4-720x1080.png.webp 720w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-4-800x1200.png.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-4-150x225.png.webp 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 48px), 720px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-4.png\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-4\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>5 tips for exercising with endometriosis<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Now you know more about endometriosis, here are tips for exercising with endometriosis.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>#1 Be kind to yourself<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When you have a chronic illness, it&rsquo;s important you know your limitations and treat yourself with kindness.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you&rsquo;re used to exercising regularly, a new diagnosis may mean you have to limit the amount of exercise temporarily if it is causing your symptoms to flare up.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Exercise can help with symptoms &ndash; it&rsquo;s important you are not completely inactive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, it&rsquo;s all about finding the right balance and taking rest days when you need to.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>#2 Take it slowly<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Huge increases in activity levels can cause symptoms to intensify, so take it slowly if you&rsquo;re starting a new fitness routine or training for a distance event.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Living with a chronic illness is all about compromise and finding the routine that works for you and your health needs.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>#3 Consider low impact exercise<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Low impact exercise like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/walking-one-hour-a-day\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"10335\">walking<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/benefits-of-yoga-for-runners\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"5449\">yoga<\/a> are great alternatives if you find activities like running and high intensity training exacerbate your symptoms.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It&rsquo;s important you respect your body and not do exercises that feel uncomfortable for you.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Activities like yoga are also great for menstrual pain and there are many yoga poses that are shown to alleviate pelvic pain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>#4 Be prepared<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you&rsquo;re planning a long run then it&rsquo;s important you be prepared in case an endometriosis flare strikes.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Consider planning a route that is close to home or close to public transport in case you need to stop your run.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>#5 Adjust your training plan<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>With a chronic illness, depending on your symptoms, you may not be able to attack your training plan like you once did.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>By making small changes, you will still be able to enjoy exercise and stay active but on your terms.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-3-683x1024.png\" alt=\"endometriosis flare up\" class=\"wp-image-10364\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-3-683x1024.png 683w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-3-200x300.png 200w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-3-768x1152.png 768w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-3-640x960.png 640w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-3-720x1080.png 720w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-3-800x1200.png 800w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-3-150x225.png 150w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-3.png 1000w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 48px), 720px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-3-683x1024.png.webp\" alt=\"endometriosis flare up\" class=\"wp-image-10364 lazyload\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-3-683x1024.png.webp 683w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-3-200x300.png.webp 200w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-3-768x1152.png.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-3-640x960.png.webp 640w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-3-720x1080.png.webp 720w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-3-800x1200.png.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-3-150x225.png.webp 150w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-3.png.webp 1000w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 48px), 720px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/endometriosis-flare-up-3.png\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-5\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Where can I find out more about endometriosis?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Here are some resources if you want to find out more about endometriosis:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.endometriosis-uk.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Endometriosis UK<\/a> &ndash; a UK-based charity to help those living with the disease overcome the impact of endometriosis.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/nancysnookendo.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Nancy&rsquo;s Nook Endo<\/a> &ndash; an endometriosis learning library founded by Nancy Peterson who has paved the way for endometriosis support and care over the last 40 years.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.endofound.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Endometriosis Foundation of America (EndoFound)<\/a> &ndash; a US-based non-profit that aims to increase disease recognition, provide advocacy, facilitate expert surgical training and fund endometriosis research.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.endoblack.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Endo Black<\/a> &ndash; a black-women-led organisation advocating for African American women and women of colour living with endometriosis.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.endometriosisaustralia.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Endometriosis Australia<\/a> &ndash; an Australian-based charity that aims to increase recognition of endometriosis, provide endometriosis education programs and help fund endometriosis research.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Despite what many may think, endometriosis (also known as &lsquo;endo&rsquo;) is more than just a painful period.&nbsp; Millions of women worldwide suffer with this painful condition, many of which have to live with pain on a daily basis, not just during their period. As an invisible illness, it can be hard for people to understand &hellip;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":10361,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":"","disable-in-feed":false,"article-schema-type":"","disable-critical-css":false},"categories":[123,301],"tags":[300],"mv":{"thumbnail_id":10361,"thumbnail_uri":"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/new-blog-posts-19-300x300.png"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/10358"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=10358"}],"version-history":[{"count":21,"href":"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/10358\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":11947,"href":"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/10358\/revisions\/11947"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/10361"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=10358"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=10358"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=10358"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}