Endometriosis is a common chronic inflammatory condition of the reproductive system, affecting women of all ages. Pelvic pain, especially menstrual pain or pain during ovulation, is the most universal sign, although the character and timing of the pain can be very variable. While some women may be completely asymptomatic, others feel pain that ranges from mild to excruciating and disabling. Sharp pains felt during intercourse and bowel movements are other possible symptoms. Some women experience infertility. Heavy periods can occur with endometriosis. Endometriosis may also cause fatigue, constipation, bloating, or nausea, especially during periods.
Causes
Endometriosis occurs when small pockets of the uterine lining grow outside the uterus in the pelvic area, for instance on the pelvic floor, bowels, bladder or ovaries. Less commonly, it can also extend into the cervix. The pain is believed to be due to the inflammation and irritation caused by the displaced tissue. Scars can form as a result of chronic inflammation, and this may lead to infertility. Potential triggers of uterine tissue displacement include:
Retrograde menstruation – when menstrual blood flows back through the fallopian tubes and into the pelvic cavity instead of out of the body. This is the most likely cause of endometriosis.
Genetics – People with first-degree relatives who have endometriosis are more likely to develop the condition.
Immune system dysfunction – The immune system may be unable to find and destroy endometrial tissue that grows outside the uterus.
Hormone imbalance – excess oestrogen may promote endometriosis.
Surgery – During abdominal surgery, such as a C-section or hysterectomy, endometrial tissue may be accidentally picked up and moved.
Transformation – Other cells in the body may become endometrial cells and start growing outside the endometrium.
Without intervention, endometriosis spontaneously remits almost entirely after menopause.
Lifestyle modification
Unrefined, cold-pressed seed and nut oils, e.g. flax seed oil, sunflower oil or walnut oil, contain essential fatty acids which the body uses to manufacture anti-inflammatory prostaglandins. Use these oils daily on salads or in sauces to help inhibit the body’s production of inflammatory substances and to correct the prostaglandin imbalance which often accompanies endometriosis.
Seafood and sea vegetables should be included in the diet. They provide iodine, a deficiency of which can trigger the development of endometriosis. Good food sources of iodine include kelp, dulse, Swiss chard, turnip greens, watercress, pineapples, pears, artichokes, citrus fruits, egg yolks, olives and seafood. The oil of fatty fish such as salmon or mackerel provides eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), which is used by the body to manufacture anti-inflammatory prostaglandins.
It is important to avoid animal meat and dairy products, since the excess oestrogen they contain will increase any susceptibility to endometriosis. Also, avoid chocolate, coffee, salt, sugar, fried foods and processed foods. These foods rob the body of essential nutrients and aggravate the symptoms of endometriosis. Regular physical activity can improve blood flow and trigger the body’s natural painkillers, endorphins. High-intensity exercise like running, swimming, and biking may be especially beneficial. Low-intensity exercise like yoga can also help with pelvic pain and stress.
Avoiding endocrine disrupting chemicals, such as those found in plastics, synthetic fragrances, cosmetics, and personal care products, will reduce the symptoms and severity of endometriosis. Good sleep hygiene – 7 – 8 hours sleep per night with a set routine – will help to reduce inflammation and pain associated with endometriosis.
Nutritional supplement treatment options
Iodine – Epidemiological studies show that a low iodine intake may lead to increased hormonal activity from the pituitary which in turn may lead to the development of endometriosis, as well as endocrine disorders such as hypothyroidism. If the diet available is poor in iodine, supplementation with sea kelp or iodine capsules is a good alternative.
In a study of women with pelvic pain due to endometriosis, supplementation with vitamin E and vitamin C for two months resulted in an improvement of pain in 43% of women, whereas none of the women receiving a placebo reported any relief from pain.
Other studies have reported moderate imbalances in prostaglandin levels in women who suffer from endometriosis. It is known that supplementation of omega-3 and / or omega-6 oils (according to individual need) can inhibit the action of pro-inflammatory chemicals in the body and optimize prostaglandin hormone levels.
Essential fatty acid therapy should be complemented by vitamin E, B vitamins, calcium and magnesium (according to individual need). These and other antioxidant vitamins and minerals may be important in the prevention of adhesion formation in endometriosis. (Studies indicate that free radicals are involved in some aspects of the disease process).
In addition, vitamin C with bioflavonoids provides cell membrane stability to keep excessive bleeding to a minimum. Vitamins A and E are likewise helpful for bleeding and hormonal balance. If heavy bleeding is a problem, iron levels should be monitored. Insufficient iron in the body can cause additional bleeding, besides causing anaemia. Vitamin C aids iron absorption.
Botanical treatment options
Herbs can be very helpful in supporting a healthy hormonal balance.
Vitex (Agnus castus) is recommended either alone or in combination with other herbs, such as dandelion root, prickly ash, and motherwort, by some practitioners to treat the symptoms of endometriosis.
Blue cohosh calms spasms and pain due to blood stagnation and stimulates the uterus.
Witch hazel also stimulates the circulation of blood without causing irritation.
Shepherd’s purse helps stop bleeding.
Dong quai, raspberry leaves and Siberian ginseng help relieve the symptoms.
For anaemia resulting from endometriosis, take the iron-building juice of stinging nettle.
Integrative options
Acupuncture has been reported anecdotally to help control the pain associated with some cases of endometriosis. One study found that auricular acupuncture (acupuncture of the ear) was as effective as hormone therapy in treating infertility due to endometriosis.
If you’ve found this post about endometriosis, you may also like:
Article contributed by Dr Tracy S Gates, DO, DIBAK, L.C.P.H., Consultant, Pure Bio Ltd. Copyright © Pure Bio Ltd 2024. All rights reserved. Pure Bio Ltd are a leading UK supplier of the highest quality PURE nutritional supplements, based in Horsham, West Sussex.
Proud Winners of Southern Enterprise Awards, Best Nationwide Hypoallergenic Nutritional Supplements Distributor 2022 and 2023. Visit www.purebio.co.uk for all your nutritional supplement needs
