Endometriosis Awareness Month
March is Endometriosis Awareness Month 〰️
Endometriosis is a condition that occurs when the uterine lining tissue grows outside of the uterus. Symptoms are variable, which may contribute to the 7 to 12 year delay in diagnosis, but are often debilitating and have a significant impact on the quality of life of the individual. Endometriosis affects approximately 10% of reproductive-aged women in Australia.
Endometriosis is more than just a reproductive disorder, it involves the immune system, gut microbiome and nervous system and must be treated accordingly.
Common symptoms of endometriosis include:
〰️painful periods: pelvic pain and cramping, lower back and abdominal pain
〰️pelvic pain and cramping unrelated to menstruation
〰️pain with bowel movements
〰️excessive bleeding
〰️infertility
〰️digestive symptoms: constipation, diarrhoea, bloating & nausea
〰️pain with intercourse
〰️ fatigue
Naturopathic treatment considerations for endometriosis include:
〰️Turmeric: has been shown to reduce endometrial lesions and inhibit enzyme secretion which causes rapid tissue and cell growth within endometrial lesions
〰️NAC (N-Acetyl Cysteine): reduces inflammation, decreases abnormal cell growth and supports liver detoxification
〰️ PEA (Palmitoylethanolamide): inhibits mast cells and assists with pain management
〰️Reducing chemical exposure: endotoxins contribute to the pathogenesis of endometriosis as they encourage proliferation of endometrial tissue. Avoiding plastics, non-organic food & chemicals in personal care and cleaning products is advised
〰️Cruciferous vegetables: help to support liver detoxification which is crucial for excreting toxins in endometriosis. Cruciferous vegetables include broccoli, cauliflower, kale, Brussel sprouts
〰️Anti-inflammatory diet: endometriosis in an inflammatory condition, therefore reducing inflammation through the diet is important. Inflammatory dietary sources include gluten, dairy, sugar, alcohol & caffeine
〰️Fibre: fibre binds to excess oestrogen and assists excretion
