Endometriosis is a disease where the cells that line the uterus are found in other parts of the body. Common implant sites are the outside of the uterus, the ovaries, and the pelvic side wall. However, they have been documented in almost every part of the body. Their presence causes pain, inflammation, and eventual scarring and anatomical distortion. In addition to its other symptoms, endometriosis is associated with fatigue.

Now the reason for the fatigue is not quite clear. It could be simply a reaction to the constant inflammation in the body, it could be a reaction to the increased stress from dealing with chronic pain, it may be due to autoimmune processes of the disease. No one is sure.

How do you cope when you're energy levels are much lower than they used to be? How do you get through the day when you wake up exhausted?

Get the Best Quality Sleep you can

However endometriosis causes fatigue one thing is clear. If you are suffering, sleep doesn't usually come easily. And interrupted sleep or simply the lack thereof will only make your energy levels lower.

Make time for sleep. Turn in early. Give yourself permission to rest, knowing how desperately your body needs it. Know that its OK to ask your doctor for help in the way of sleep aids if pain, depression, or anxiety make restful sleep impossible.

Make your bed as comfortable as possible

Clean, soft sheets and cozy comforters are nice to curl up in even when sleep itself is elusive. Try using pillows as support behind your back, between the knees, or even under a swollen belly. Invest in new bedding, such as your budget allows, to enhance comfort. Choose colors that your find soothing.

Experiment with Aromatherapy

Certain scents do seem to effect our moods and energy levels. Enhance your sheets with aromas that help induce sleep, such as roman chamomile and lavender. Use shower gels which include peppermint or rosemary for a bit of help waking up in the mornings. Light scented candles. Just be sure to choose products which include natural essential oils and not imitations.

Sleep when you can

Don't feel guilty or lazy if you find that you need naps or to "sleep in". If your work schedule or family duties require getting up at 6:30, make a promise to yourself to get to bed by 10:30 most nights. Try and avoid, if at all possible, subjecting your body to rotating shifts or split shifts as these will only aggravate symptoms of insomnia and unrefreshing sleep.

Do What you Can WHEN You can

Clean in small bursts instead of trying to go for 2 hours straight. Scatter your weekly tasks throughout the week instead of trying to do everything in one day. Prioritize what truly needs to be done, and let what can wait for another day. Learn to stop and say no to outings or obligations that bring you no joy, serve no true purpose, and will only serve to exhaust you.

Try and find easier ways to do what needs to be done

Fold your laundry sitting down, get a stool in your kitchen so you don't have to stay on your feet, have playtime with your kids on the couch or in bed.

Take Care of Your Body

Be honest with yourself if you find that there are certain things you can't do anymore. Remember that pushing beyond your limits will only result in more fatigue, and possibly an increase in pain, irritability, and other symptoms. Give yourself permission to stop and rest when needed.

Maximize Good Days

If nothing else appreciate them. Use them. Whether it be to catch up on needed tasks or just to be able to enjoy a longed for outing. For many endo sufferers days without fatigue are rare and precious commodities.