Which of the following is a common treatment option beyond hormonal therapy for endometriosis?

For women with endometriosis, hormonal therapy is often the first-line treatment, but there are several options that can be used if patients do not respond adequately or have specific needs. Progestins and GnRH (gonadotropin-releasing hormone) agonists are commonly employed in the management of endometriosis as they help to reduce estrogen levels, which can alleviate pain and decrease the size of endometrial lesions.

Progestins work by preventing the growth of endometrial tissue and can cause atrophy of existing lesions, while GnRH agonists induce a state of temporary menopause by suppressing ovarian function. This reduces cyclical hormone fluctuations that contribute to endometriosis symptoms. These treatments are effective for many patients and can significantly improve quality of life.

Other treatments, while potentially beneficial in some contexts, do not serve as primary interventions for endometriosis. Antidepressants may help manage associated symptoms of depression or anxiety but do not directly address the underlying pathology of endometriosis. Acupuncture is considered a complementary treatment and might provide some symptom relief through pain modulation, but it is not a recognized primary treatment for endometriosis. Intrauterine devices can also be used for contraception and to manage heavy menstrual bleeding, but they are