Endometriosis is a complex and often debilitating condition that affects an estimated 1 in 10 women worldwide. Yet far too little is known about this chronic disease, which causes women to deal with intense pain, bleeding and possible infertility.
What do we know?
What is endometriosis?
Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to endometrium (endometrium) grows outside the uterus, such as on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or even on organs such as the bladder and intestines. This tissue responds to hormonal changes in your cycle, causing it to thicken and bleed. Because the blood and tissue outside the uterus has nowhere to go, it causes inflammation, pain, adhesions, and scarring.
Symptoms vary widely, but often include:
- Severe menstrual pain
- Chronic pelvic pain
- Pain during sex
- Bowel or bladder complaints
- Difficulty getting pregnant
Complications and risks
Endometriosis can not only cause severe pain and fertility problems, but in severe cases can be life-threatening. Because the tissue can spread to other organs - such as the intestines, bladder or even the lungs - it can lead to serious complications such as bowel obstruction, breathing problems or organ failure. The resulting inflammation and adhesions can not only impair the function of these organs, but also cause chronic pain and serious health risks. This highlights how important it is to address not only the symptoms, but also the cause of endometriosis.
What do we know for sure about endometriosis?
But despite years of research, many aspects of endometriosis are still a mystery. What we know is that genetics play a role; if your mother or sister has it, you have an increased chance of getting it too. Hormonal imbalance, particularly estrogen dominance, seems to promote the growth of endometriosis tissue.
In addition, the immune system plays an important role. In women with endometriosis, the immune system appears to be less effective at clearing misplaced endometrial tissue. It is also thought that environmental factors, such as exposure to toxins (for example, BPA in plastic), may have an influence.
But the exact cause of endometriosis remains unclear. Why do some women get it and not others? And why do some women with severe endometriosis have hardly any symptoms, while others with mild forms experience severe pain? This lack of answers makes treating the disease especially challenging.
Why is so much unknown about endometriosis?
Despite endometriosis being one of the most common gynecologic conditions, research on this disease remains underfunded. This is partly because women's complaints have historically been given less priority in medical research. There are also no simple tests available; endometriosis can only be definitively diagnosed through laparoscopy, a surgical procedure that is not without risk.
In addition, symptoms are often nonspecific and may resemble other conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (PDS) or bladder infections. This leads to confusion among health care providers and a delay in making a diagnosis.
Why is hormone therapy just a band-aid on the wound?
Mainstream doctors recommend hormone therapy as the only "solution," and, in severe cases, surgery to remove the adhesions or cysts. Endometriosis is not curable according to mainstream medicine, only symptom relief is possible. Hormones, such as the birth control pill or a hormone IUD, suppress your menstrual cycle, which can reduce symptoms. But this approach does not address the underlying cause. As soon as you stop taking hormones, the symptoms may return. In addition, these treatments often have side effects, such as mood swings, weight gain and decreased libido.
What do alternative therapies say about endometriosis?
Alternative medicine looks at endometriosis differently. There are theories about what causes endometriosis in the body as well as ways to address these causes.
Chinese medicine
According to Chinese medicine, endometriosis results from a stagnation of Qi (life energy) and blood in the pelvic area. This can be due to stress, an unhealthy lifestyle or emotional blockages. Treatments such as acupuncture and herbal remedies can be used to improve blood flow, reduce inflammation and restore hormonal balance.
Other theories
Some therapists point to the role of gut health in endometriosis. A leaky gut (leaky gut) can exacerbate inflammation in the body, which has a negative effect on endometriosis. Emotional and traumatic experiences are also sometimes linked to the development of chronic conditions such as endometriosis. Addressing these factors through therapy or mindfulness can help reduce stress and pain.
Natural treatments: where do you start?
Curing endometriosis is a quest, but not impossible. Countless experiences show that there are options to greatly reduce or even eliminate endometriosis. But where do you start? Here are some tips:
1. Diet
- Avoid pro-inflammatory foods such as sugar, red meat, caffeine, gluten, soy, dairy and processed foods.
- Choose an anti-inflammatory diet with plenty of vegetables, healthy fats (such as omega-3 from fish or flaxseed), and antioxidants.
2. Supplements
Herbs and nutrients can help, depending on the cause of the endometriosis. It is important to focus on anti-inflammatory herbs and herbs that stimulate circulation to drain trapped blood.
- Omega-3 fatty acids: Act as an anti-inflammatory.
- Curcumin (from turmeric): Reduces inflammation and promotes blood circulation.
- Vitamin D: Helps regulate the immune system.
- Magnesium: May relieve menstrual cramps.
3. Motion
Light forms of exercise, such as yoga, walking and pilates, can improve circulation and reduce stress. Avoid intense exercise if you find it worsens your symptoms.
4. Stress reduction
Chronic stress worsens hormonal imbalance and inflammation. Try daily relaxation techniques, such as meditation, breathing exercises or mindfulness. Massage and heat (such as a hot water bottle) can also help reduce tension in the pelvic area.
5. Liver support
Your liver plays a crucial role in breaking down excess hormones such as estrogen. Support your liver by drinking plenty of water, herbal teas such as milk thistle or dandelion, and avoiding alcohol.
Having to constantly search for solutions to endometriosis can be incredibly frustrating and exhausting. It sometimes feels like fighting an invisible enemy, while the answers often remain vague. But know that you are not alone in this struggle. A healthy lifestyle can already make a huge difference. By paying attention to your diet, exercise, stress management and holistic support, you can find relief one step at a time. It's a process, but with the right support and dedication, you can learn to manage this condition and improve your quality of life.
