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Does your (progesterone only) hormonal treatment cause fatigue? Was it better once you changed to estrogen-progesterone pill?

A MyEndometriosisTeam Member asked a question 💭
Maastricht, NL

I got a diagnosed some months ago but I have a hard time adjusting to it. My medication is working but I am experiencing intense body fatigue and aches. I’ve changed two types of hormones so far, but both progesterone only. I’m considering changing to an estrogen-progesterone pill but I’m scared about the side effects. I’m also having a hard time connecting to people as I feel that I don’t relate to them, my friends are living their normal lives whereas I am in a day to day struggle. Anyways if… read more

March 30
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Reactions
A MyEndometriosisTeam Member

I can definitely relate. It’s hard not to feel disconnected when you’re in so much pain or too sick to be social. Sometimes you just need someone who gets it—you’re not alone.

March 30
A MyEndometriosisTeam Member

Hi, how has it been since? did you decide to switch in the end?

June 28
A MyEndometriosisTeam Member

Have you been on a combo bc pill before?
I would say tho everyone is different depending on the side effects you get from each bc,
Also you mentioned you just started it some months ago I think you need at least 4-5 months for your body to get use to the new bc pill. Hope you feel better.

March 31
MyEndometriosisTeam

Does progesterone-only hormonal treatment cause fatigue, and does switching to an estrogen-progesterone pill help?

Fatigue is a very common symptom with endometriosis itself, affecting people twice as often as the general population. The fatigue you're experiencing could be related to the endometriosis rather than Show Full Answer

Does progesterone-only hormonal treatment cause fatigue, and does switching to an estrogen-progesterone pill help?

Fatigue is a very common symptom with endometriosis itself, affecting people twice as often as the general population. The fatigue you're experiencing could be related to the endometriosis rather than specifically the progesterone-only treatment.

Several factors contribute to endometriosis-related fatigue:
- Inflammation from the condition itself
- Pain interfering with sleep quality
- Anemia from excessive bleeding
- Mental health impacts like anxiety and depression

While hormonal treatments like birth control pills are part of managing endometriosis, the search results don't specifically compare fatigue levels between progesterone-only versus combination estrogen-progesterone pills. Some strategies that may help with your fatigue include:
- Following your complete treatment plan consistently
- Taking iron supplements if anemia is contributing
- Trying gentle physical activity, which research shows may reduce fatigue and pain
- Seeking mental health support, as psychological stress affects over 68% of people with endometriosis
- Discussing medications like Elagolix with your doctor, which has helped ease fatigue in some people

It's completely understandable to feel isolated. A MyEndometriosisTeam member shared similar feelings about struggling with daily pain while friends live normal lives. The emotional toll is real, and seeking support—whether through therapy or connecting with others who understand—can make a difference.

Talk to your doctor about your fatigue concerns before switching medications. They can help weigh the benefits and risks of different hormonal options for your specific situation.

March 30

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