Use the following websites to teach patients about the signs and symptoms, treatment options, and quality of life resources for girls and women with endometriosis.
http://endometriosis.org
This important resource, an international collaboration of healthcare providers, researchers, patients and others, focuses on how to treat, diagnose, and manage endometriosis. The website includes sections that cover the different types of medical and surgical treatment, as well as resources for coping and support. Under the resources tab, articles, clinical textbooks, and self-help books are available for patients and professionals.
Endometriosis Foundation of America (EFA)
http://www.endofound.org
According to its website, the EFA "strives to increase disease recognition, provide advocacy, facilitate expert surgical training, and fund landmark endometriosis research." The website provides information on how patients should talk with their primary care provider and answers frequently asked questions. A separate resource page lists fact sheets for pain management and infertility.
National Institutes of Health (NIH)
http://1.usa.gov/1EbCPYw
For a direct overview of endometriosis, tell patients about this NIH website. Here they'll find a breakdown of how endometriosis is diagnosed, signs and symptoms, risk factors, and treatment options. A "research roundup" summarizes current research and a section on clinical trials describes ongoing studies. Inform patients that if they're interested and meet the study criteria, they can consider joining one of the trials.
The Endometriosis Association (EA)
http://www.endometriosisassn.org
The number one objective for EA is to help prevent and find a cure for endometriosis. The association focuses on education and outreach to help meet this goal. Its website is a great source for patients, especially those looking for support. EA supplies a free information packet, physician resources, multilingual brochures, and a separate website in Spanish. Additionally, it provides information for healthcare professionals and featured books on the disease.