5 Ways to Manage Endometriosis Naturally
Managing endometriosis requires a multifaceted approach. Here are 5 proven ways to reduce symptoms and improve your quality of life:
- Dietary Changes:
- Eliminate inflammatory foods like dairy, bread, and pasta.
- Focus on fresh, whole foods such as fish, seafood, rice, and vegetables.
- Replace dairy with alternatives like soy milk.
- Natural Supplements:
- Milk Thistle: Supports liver function and detoxifies excess estrogen.
- Probiotics: Promote gut health and hormone regulation.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Reduce inflammation and support immunity.
- Vitamin B6: Boosts progesterone and aids liver function.
- Alternative Therapies:
- Seek guidance from a Kinesiologist for physical and dietary adjustments.
- Explore therapies like acupuncture or yoga for pain management.
- Mindful Eating and Body Awareness:
- Pay attention to how your body reacts to different foods.
- Gradually reintroduce foods to identify triggers (e.g., IBS).
- Practice mindful eating to improve digestion and overall health.
- Emotional and Mental Well-being:
- Address emotional challenges like depression and anxiety through self-care.
- Join support groups or societies for endometriosis to connect with others.
- Prioritize mental health through relaxation techniques or therapy.
What is endometriosis?
Endometriosis, pronounced en-doe-me-tree-O-sis, is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the womb, unlike typical menstruation where it grows inside. This displaced tissue becomes trapped within the body, triggering a chronic inflammatory response. Over time, this inflammation can lead to the formation of scar tissue, known as adhesions, and fibroids.
These adhesions often develop within the pelvic region, causing organs such as the ovaries to adhere to each other or to the pelvic sidewall. Endometriosis implants can also affect other parts of the body where the tissue is found. The formation of scar tissue and adhesions can cause organs that are normally separate to become fused together, leading to complications such as pain, infertility, and other symptoms associated with endometriosis.
The disorder commonly results in severe discomfort during activities like sexual intercourse, bowel movements, and urination. Unfortunately, it can also lead to infertility. Those affected often endure chronic pelvic pain, abdominal bloating, nausea, and fatigue. Emotionally, individuals with endometriosis may experience challenges such as depression, anxiety, and episodes of fainting.
Endometriosis affects approximately 10% of women and girls of reproductive age. Managing this condition requires a multifaceted approach to alleviate symptoms, reduce inflammation, and address the impact on quality of life.
How Endometriosis Affected Me
Worrying about my period
In 1993, my husband and I embarked on a backpacking adventure to Thailand. It was my first time in Asia, and the anticipation of the trip filled me with excitement.
Little did I know, this journey would alter the course of my life forever.
In the weeks leading up to our holiday, I was plagued with worry, not just about when my period would arrive, but also about the intense symptoms I would endure.
Thankfully, it began about five days before our flight. I spent those days fervently hoping it would end in time for a smooth journey, as my periods often played tricks by stopping and starting unpredictably. They were also incredibly painful.
This time, fortunately, it ended as hoped. Grateful to the universe, I spent the flight immersing myself in learning Thai.
However, I knew another period would likely come during our time in Thailand. To prepare, I packed my usual stash: six boxes of Super Plus Tampax, four packets of Super Plus sanitary towels, and plenty of painkillers.
Thailand
A Turning Point
Thailand captivated me with its amazing cuisine and overall charm, but one thing caught me off guard: the absence of fresh milk. As someone accustomed to enjoying coffee with plenty of fresh milk, this was a notable surprise.
It wasn’t a disappointment, as I’m adaptable, but it puzzled me, especially with cows roaming freely around. I couldn’t understand why milk wasn’t available when there were so many cows. It turns out, these cows weren’t bred for milk production.
Back then, Westerners in Thailand often used powdered milk in tea or coffee. I found powdered milk unappealing due to its chemical taste, so I opted for black coffee or tea instead.
However, my perspective shifted one day when a local woman suggested trying soy milk. To my delight, soya milk added a creamy texture to my coffee that I found quite enjoyable. It was a pleasant discovery to adapt to the culinary delights of Thailand.
Not having any dairy
As you can see from the picture, it’s another adorable animal. Animals hold a special place in my heart, which is why I’ve been involved in helping animals in Cambodia.
During the next three weeks, I made a significant dietary change by cutting out dairy, bread, and pasta. Instead, I opted for soy milk in my coffee and focused on a diet of fresh fish, seafood, rice, vegetables, soups, and noodles. Thai cuisine, bursting with flavours, was a delight to my palate and left me feeling nourished and energised.
This shift in diet also had a positive impact on my health. It wasn’t fattening, and importantly, it helped me manage my struggle with Bulimia Nervosa.
With the support of my two friends, I sought and received the necessary help to embark on a path of recovery. If you’re interested in learning more about my journey, feel free to find out more.
But one day
A Surprising Discovery
One morning, I woke up to find blood in my pants and was immediately thrown into shock because I hadn’t experienced any prior pain. Concerned that something might be wrong, I checked the lump in my ear—it was as large as it usually gets just before my period starts. This lump would consistently appear right before each period and vanish as soon as it ended.
This peculiar period only lasted three days and wasn’t very heavy. It left me puzzled and unable to understand what was happening. Even an extra-large Tampax lasted only two hours.
I felt a slight ache in my stomach, but it wasn’t severe. Taking just one paracetamol (instead of my usual two, plus two ibuprofen) quickly relieved any discomfort within 30 minutes.
I was bewildered by the experience. Initially, I attributed it to being on holiday and relaxed, but I couldn’t shake the nagging question of why this was happening.
Why oh why
Intrigued by this, I went to talk to the local Thai women. I wanted to understand more about their menstrual health.
I discovered that they were unfamiliar with conditions like endometriosis or any significant period-related issues. Most of them reported never experiencing heavy periods, and those who did have pain likened it to mild discomfort.
I was perplexed. Why were Thai women seemingly unaffected by these issues that plagued me and many others? Determined to uncover the reason behind this, I delved deeper into research.
Returning home from this enlightening holiday, my next period reverted to its usual pattern: severe pain, heaviness, and clots.
Yet, I still felt a lingering sense of relaxation from my time in Asia. There’s something about the region that injects a tranquil Buddhist essence, even when you’re no longer physically there.
Reflecting on this, I speculated that perhaps the difference lay in the food. It was time to experiment with my diet and its impact on my body, hoping to uncover clues that could lead to better managing my health.
A Kinesiologist’s Guidance
Booking an appointment with a Kinesiologist was a leap into the unknown for me, as many people had never heard of this practice and some thought I was taking an unconventional path.
I first learned about Kinesiology from an article where a woman with fibroids had found relief through this method, prompting me to give it a try.
The Kinesiologist I saw was a man who resembled an old professor from the days of Albert Einstein, and his office resembled an ancient library.
He instructed me to lie on a bed and proceeded to move my arms and legs into various positions. Initially, I was bewildered by the process—it felt like he was simply wiggling my limbs.
Then, he placed his hands on my stomach. I’ve always disliked people touching my stomach, so I was uneasy. He calmly mentioned,
“I am going to adjust your womb; it’s in the wrong position.”
I had no clue what he meant, and surprisingly, there was no discomfort during the procedure. At that moment, I wondered if he might be a bit eccentric.
He then outlined a dietary plan for me, recommending the elimination of certain foods for six weeks followed by a gradual reintroduction.
Additionally, he provided a list of natural vitamins that he suggested I incorporate into my daily routine. It was a lot to take in, but I was willing to try anything that might offer relief.
2. Natural Supplements for Endometriosis Relief
Managing endometriosis often requires a holistic approach, including dietary changes and natural supplements. Below are some key supplements that can help reduce inflammation, balance hormones, and support overall health for those living with endometriosis.
1. Milk Thistle
- What it does: Milk thistle contains silymarin, a powerful antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties. It supports liver function, helping the body detoxify excess estrogen, which can contribute to endometriosis.
- Learn more: Milk Thistle Benefits
- Buy now: NOW Foods, Milk Thistle Extract, Double Strength, 300 mg, 200 Veg Capsules
2. Probiotics
- What they do: Probiotics are beneficial gut bacteria that play a crucial role in hormone regulation. The estrobolome in probiotics produces enzymes that help metabolize estrogen, promoting hormonal balance.
- Learn more: Probiotics Explained
- Buy now: Lake Avenue Nutrition, Acidophilus and Bifidus, Probiotic Blend, 8 Billion CFU, 60 Veggie Capsules
3. Omega-3 Fatty Acids
- What they do: Omega-3s are known for their anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the chronic inflammation associated with endometriosis. They also support immune system function.
- Learn more: Omega-3 Fatty Acids
- Buy now: NOW Foods, Omega-3 Fish Oil, 1,000 mg, 180 EPA – 120 DHA, 200 Softgels
4. Vitamin B6
- What it does: Vitamin B6 helps increase progesterone production, which can counteract the effects of excess estrogen. It also supports liver function in removing unneeded estrogen and boosts the immune system.
- Learn more: Vitamin B6 Benefits
- Buy now: NOW Foods, B-6, 100 mg, 250 Veg Capsules
Why These Supplements Matter
Endometriosis is a complex condition that often involves hormonal imbalances, chronic inflammation, and ithat is why these supplements matter.
Endometriosis is a complex condition that often involves hormonal imbalances, chronic inflammation, and immune system challenges. Incorporating these natural supplements into your routine, alongside a healthy diet and lifestyle, can provide significant relief and improve your quality of life.
Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplements, especially if you’re on medication or have underlying health conditions.
The Results of My Dietary Changes
Taking the vitamins and making significant changes to my diet was a transformative experience.
For six weeks, I focused on consuming only chicken, fish, and vegetables, eliminating tea, coffee, and anything sweet. It was all part of clearing my body, as advised by the Kinesiologist, before gradually reintroducing foods to identify triggers for my IBS.
Reintroducing food was an eye-opening process. It quickly became clear that certain foods like bread, pasta, and milk exacerbated my symptoms, causing pain.
This newfound awareness of how my body reacted to different foods was enlightening. I realised the importance of listening to and understanding my body—a stark contrast to the common belief that you either endure discomfort or rely on medication.
As a result of these dietary changes and heightened awareness, my subsequent periods showed marked improvement. Though I still experienced some pain, it was significantly reduced from before.
This experience instilled in me a lifelong commitment to mindful eating and body awareness. It not only helped me manage my health but also allowed me to effectively control my weight by making informed choices about what I eat. After all, you are what you eat.
Takeaway
Endometriosis remains a challenging condition for medical professionals and patients alike. The exact causes and a definitive cure are still unknown, contributing to delayed diagnosis and misidentification with other conditions like pelvic inflammatory disease, IBS, or ovarian cysts. This often results in a prolonged journey to accurately diagnose the condition.
If you suspect you may have symptoms of endometriosis, seeking medical attention promptly is crucial. Early diagnosis can lead to better management of symptoms and quality of life.
In my quest for understanding and managing endometriosis, I joined the Endometriosis Society for support. I also took proactive steps, such as adjusting my diet and seeking alternative therapies like Kinesiology, which significantly improved my symptoms.
Despite reaching out to share my experience with the society, I did not receive a response. Nonetheless, I’ve continued to advocate for self-care and proactive health management, sharing my journey with others who may benefit.
For those seeking additional resources, websites like Activebeat offer valuable information, and books can provide deeper insights into managing endometriosis.
While the path to managing endometriosis can be challenging and requires dedication, the potential benefits of improved health and well-being make it worthwhile.
If you or someone you know is navigating this condition, exploring various resources and approaches can make a meaningful difference.
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