Endometriosis is so much more than just having a painful period.
It is a chronic inflammatory condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus, commonly affecting areas around the ovaries, fallopian tubes and pelvis.
For many women, symptoms can be dismissed as ‘normal period pain’ for years before receiving a diagnosis.
Here are some of the most common questions I get asked about endometriosis.
What are the symptoms of endometriosis?
Symptoms can vary significantly between women. Common symptoms include:
- Painful periods
- Pelvic pain
- Pain during or after intercourse
- Heavy or irregular bleeding
- Pain with bowel movements or urination
- Bloating and digestive symptoms
- Fatigue
- Difficulty conceiving
You don’t need to have every symptom to have endometriosis, and some women are asymptomatic!
What causes endometriosis?
There isn’t one known cause of endometriosis. It is thought to involve a combination of genetic, hormonal, immune and inflammatory factors.
Endometriosis is an oestrogen-responsive condition, but it isn’t as simple as having ‘too much oestrogen.’
As a Naturopath, Ash will work with you to piece together your ‘endo’ picture. Whether that’s to support you pre-diagnosis, or after surgery to help prevent lesion growth again.
Can endometriosis be treated naturally?
While Naturopathy cannot remove endometriosis lesions, it can support the body alongside appropriate medical care.
A Naturopathic approach may focus on inflammation, pain, digestive health, nutrient status, hormonal metabolism, stress and overall wellbeing.
Your treatment will always be individualised as it is such a multifactorial condition.
Can a Naturopath help with endometriosis?
100%.
Naturopathic care can complement your medical and gynaecological treatment by supporting the factors that may influence symptoms and quality of life.
This may include nutrition, targeted nutrients, herbal medicine and lifestyle strategies where appropriate.
