“Heat is a fantastic solution to tackle cramping pain, as it increases blood flow to the pelvic area which helps to relax muscles and ease cramps,” Anna agrees. “A hot water bottle or a heat belt are perfect natural remedies for travelling due to their portability, and also their ability to provide a constant source of heat which makes managing challenging symptoms much easier on-the-go.”
Bring electrolyte sachets
Travelling, and flying in particular, can dehydrate us, and the more dehydrated we are, the more likely it is that our endometriosis symptoms flare up. I make sure to drink plenty of water in the days leading up to travelling, and then, on the day itself (once I’m through airport security), I’ll decant a sachet of electrolytes into my drink and sip on these throughout the day. Not only do they help me manage my bloating, but they also help me minimise cramps, feel less fatigued and also seem to ease muscle spasms in my legs.
“Our hormones play a key role in regulating hydration, and dehydration can disrupt cortisol and aldosterone levels, worsening symptoms such as fatigue and stress. Electrolyte sachets are an excellent addition to your travel kit, helping maintain proper hydration levels and replenish essential minerals crucial for muscle function and reducing cramping,” Anna adds.
Pack a portable TENS machine
I was recommended to use a TENS machine by a doctor many years ago and it’s travelled with me in my hand luggage ever since – in fact, so impressed have I been by its pain-relieving abilities, my trusty gadget also played a pivotal role in the recent birth of my daughter. The machine works by delivering low-level electrical impulses that block pain signals from reaching the brain and may encourage the release of endorphins.
Anna explains, “TENS units are a practical solution for endometriosis as they are usually fairly compact, which makes them easy to travel with, in addition to providing immediate relief, which makes them a must-have for those unexpected flare-ups.”
Wear compression garments
Though they perhaps aren’t the chicest of travel accessories, wearing compression socks has helped immeasurably reduce swelling and pain in my legs, which can generally occur when flying but is also worsened considerably by endometriosis. And, as long as the air conditioning at my destination allows, I pull the socks on each night too to help ease the fatigue and swelling in my legs that has built up over the day while on holiday.
“Compression garments are great for travelling generally, as they improve circulation and reduce swelling caused by sitting for long periods. For endometriosis, these garments can be helpful by removing additional discomfort, as there is already enough pain,” Anna explains.
Request extra hotel pillows to keep your legs elevated at night
Asking the hotel or Airbnb for extra pillows is one of my favourite travel tips, as it doesn’t require any pre-planning, takes up no room in your suitcase and is really effective at helping ease lower leg cramping and water retention, which is one of the endometriosis symptoms that I find can flare up the most during travel.
Anna explains that this is due to the improved blood flow that comes from elevation, which reduces pelvic congestion and, in turn, can ease painful symptoms. “A pillow is a great option for keeping your legs elevated as it is convenient and readily available when travelling and can minimise discomfort after long periods of sitting or standing,” she says.
Book a massage for the day before you travel
Though a massage is always enjoyable, booking one in before travel also has a practical purpose when it comes to travelling with endometriosis. Getting a massage the day before helps me to get ahead of any debilitating symptoms that might occur during a long journey, as well as alleviating any extra stress, which can also further exacerbate symptoms.
Anna suggests that “addressing any potential muscle tightness or inflammation prior to travel can minimise pelvic discomfort and make your body more resilient to the physical demands of prolonged travel. Massages are also a fantastic way to promote overall relaxation in the body, reducing stress and improving overall feelings of wellness.”
