An Intro to Endo
Endometriosis is a complex and multifactorial condition that involves the growth of endometrial tissue outside of the uterus, typically in the pelvic region. The pathophysiology of endometriosis is not fully understood, but there are several theories that attempt to explain how it develops and progresses.
One of the most widely accepted theories is retrograde menstruation, which suggests that endometrial cells are shed during menstruation and travel backwards through the fallopian tubes into the pelvic cavity. These cells then implant and grow in various locations, forming endometrial lesions. This theory is supported by the fact that endometriosis is more common in women who have heavy or prolonged periods, which increase the likelihood of retrograde menstruation.
Another theory is that endometrial cells may spread through the bloodstream or lymphatic system to other parts of the body. This is supported by the fact that endometriosis can occur in rare locations outside of the pelvis, such as the lungs or brain.
Once endometrial cells have implanted and begun to grow outside of the uterus, they can cause a range of symptoms and complications. Endometriosis lesions can become inflamed and irritated, leading to pain and discomfort. They can also bleed during menstruation, causing heavy or irregular periods. In some cases, endometrial tissue can form adhesions, which are bands of scar tissue that can cause organs to stick together and impair their function.
The immune system also plays a role in the development and progression of endometriosis. Women with endometriosis have been found to have abnormalities in their immune cells, which may allow endometrial cells to survive and grow outside of the uterus. Additionally, inflammation caused by endometriosis can further impair immune function, creating a vicious cycle of inflammation and tissue growth.
As Naturopaths, we believe in addressing the root causes of endometriosis, rather than simply treating the symptoms. Here are some natural approaches that I recommend to my patients with endometriosis:
Reduce inflammation: Endometriosis is an inflammatory condition, so reducing inflammation in the body can help alleviate symptoms. Eating an anti-inflammatory diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats, can be helpful. In addition, avoiding inflammatory foods like sugar, processed foods, and alcohol can also be beneficial.
Support liver function: The liver plays an important role in processing and eliminating hormones, so supporting liver function can be helpful for women with endometriosis. Eating liver-supportive foods like cruciferous vegetables, leafy greens, and beets can be helpful, as can taking supplements like milk thistle or dandelion root.
Manage stress: Stress can exacerbate symptoms of endometriosis, so finding ways to manage stress is important. Practicing yoga, meditation, or deep breathing can be helpful, as can getting regular exercise and prioritizing self-care.
Address hormonal imbalances: Endometriosis is often linked to hormonal imbalances, so addressing these imbalances can be helpful. This can involve working with a healthcare provider to balance hormones naturally, using herbs or supplements like vitex, maca, or DIM.
Consider acupuncture: Acupuncture is a form of traditional Chinese medicine that can be helpful for managing pain and reducing inflammation in women with endometriosis. Many women find that regular acupuncture treatments help reduce pain and improve overall well-being.
Treat the gut: there are microbes in the gut that secrete inflammatory compounds, microbes that secrete toxins that can trigger the autoimmune response that can create these endometrial lesions, and microbes that also secrete bi-products (beta-glucoronidase) which impede the body's ability to clear oestrogen effectively.
As Endometriosis is such a multi-factorial, complex condition and you are feeling lost with all the information out there please feel free to give us a call so that we can guide and support you as the best course of treatment.