Endometriosis: Symptoms, Causes, and Natural Treatments

Endometriosis: Symptoms, Causes, and Natural Treatments

The Best Remedies for Endometriosis and Alternative Treatments to the Pill

Endometriosis is a gynecological condition that, despite affecting a large number of women, is difficult to diagnose, as very little is known about it, making it challenging to identify the right therapy and remedies to treat it. While there are only theories about the causes of endometriosis, many studies highlight how women in competitive environments, with unbalanced lifestyles, affected by stress, and disconnected from their emotional needs are more likely to experience the disorder. Let's see together how we can support the body in case of endometriosis by improving nutrition and lifestyle and resorting to some natural treatments and remedies that strengthen the immune and endocrine system, help manage stress, and alleviate pain.

Thickened Endometrium: Natural Cures for Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a chronic gynecological disease that involves the settlement and development of endometrial tissue outside its usual location. The endometrium is the mucosa that lines the inner walls of the uterus, and during the menstrual cycle it thickens in preparation for a possible pregnancy, shedding later to be released along with menstrual blood: in the case of endometriosis, this tissue, normally present only in the uterine cavity, tends to grow abnormally inside and outside of it, reaching the areas of the pelvic peritoneum - pelvic fossae, rectovaginal septum - but also the pelvic organs, such as the intestines, bladder, and ureter, where it continues to grow in response to hormonal stimuli. There have even been reported cases of endometriosis in the liver, brain, and lungs.

The growth of endometrial tissue on the surface of other organs, such as ovaries, vagina, bladder, fallopian tubes, or intestines, can cause severe pelvic pain, but also lead to more serious complications and affect the psychological health of women: it, in fact, causes chronic inflammation of the tissues of the affected organs and the formation of scar tissue, which could lead to infertility and difficulty conceiving or alterations in the menstrual cycle.

Endometriosis is a condition that affects, in Italy, about 10-15% of women of childbearing age, but also women in menopause; despite this, very little is known about the nature and causes of this disease, which varies drastically from person to person in its manifestation and symptoms, making not only the diagnosis complex but also the identification of suitable remedies and treatment.

Although the causes of endometriosis are uncertain, a strong correlation between the disease and lifestyle, habits, and the balance of a woman's emotional and psychological sphere has been emphasized: many studies have shown that multitasking women, experiencing high levels of stress and a chaotic life, inserted into competitive and conflicting contexts regulated by patriarchal and masculine hierarchies are more likely to develop endometriosis. In tradition, endometriosis is also called the "bloody sacrifice of the goddess", and it can be read as a call from the woman's body, signaling that something is not working as it should and that her physical and emotional needs are not being heard.

Due to this strong association of endometriosis with lifestyle, low immune defenses, stress levels, and overall psychophysical health, in addition to medical therapies such as the pill, which often result in harmful side effects for women, it is possible to resort to natural treatments for endometriosis: from nutrition, to regulating one's daily habits, to supplements and herbal remedies to counteract pain and support the immune and endocrine system and regulate stress levels, let's discover the most effective remedies for endometriosis.

Read also: Natural Remedies for Menopause

Causes of Endometriosis

The causes of endometriosis are still relatively unknown; scientific studies conducted so far on this condition have only allowed for theoretical hypotheses about the associated risk factors.

Some hypotheses indicate that endometriosis is a genetic condition, and therefore hereditary, while other factors, such as cases of male endometriosis, suggest that it is an abnormal transformation of endometrial tissue in peritoneal cells. Among the possible causes of endometriosis identified are: - Retrograde menstruation, which is the implantation of endometrial tissue that sheds during menstruation in sites outside the uterus, passing through the fallopian tubes; - Genetic causes, meaning a hereditary predisposition; - Congenital pathology, meaning endometrium in sites other than the uterus (ectopic endometrium) is already present at the fetal level; - Hormonal causes, related to estrogen activity that would cause the abnormal transformation of certain cells into endometrial cells; - Metaplasia, which is an alteration of the tissue lining the pelvis; - Unbalanced diet and irregular lifestyle, as endometriosis is strongly associated with weakened immune system, hormonal levels, and blocked pelvic energy. In ancient times, endometriosis was also called the "professional woman's disease," as there was a high prevalence of the condition among women who worked a lot. This led to the belief that endometriosis was caused by not having pregnancies or postponing them (in favor of work), which is often still identified as a risk factor for the disease; in reality, this is not the case, and likewise, getting pregnant is not a cure for endometriosis, as many claim. It is more plausible that it was rather women who postponed pregnancy to pursue their career in competitive and male-dominated fields, subjected to altered lifestyles and high stress and pressures, who developed endometriosis, reinforcing the correlation between the development of endometriosis, an irregular lifestyle, and a poor connection with their female needs and nature. Numerous studies have indeed shown a high prevalence of the condition among women under high stress, who demand a lot from themselves, who rest little, who are in highly competitive and patriarchal contexts like the business world, who do not receive the right emotional support in their lives, and whose emotional needs clash with their role and functioning in the external world. This has strengthened the theory that endometriosis is highly dependent on conflict and competitiveness, arising when a woman does not listen to her emotional demands, as if the body were calling her attention to these deep needs. In these cases, it is referred to as a blockage of pelvic energy, as the uterus is considered a portal of life, an organ full of creative and sexual energy. Endometriosis: Symptoms The symptoms of endometriosis can vary from woman to woman and are often common to those of other pathologies, making the diagnosis of the disease difficult and the identification of the right treatment even more complex. Endometriosis is also often a silent pathology, as it is completely asymptomatic for many women. The predominant symptom of endometriosis is pain, caused by inflammation, which can sometimes be so acute and chronic as to affect the normal performance of daily activities. In particular, endometriosis manifests with: - Chronic pelvic pain; - Pain during sexual intercourse (Dyspareunia); - Menstrual pain (Dysmenorrhea); - Pain during urination; - Pain during bowel movements. In addition to pain, which becomes particularly acute during the menstrual cycle, other symptoms associated with endometriosis are:
  • Irregular menstrual cycle;
  • Menstrual flow too heavy or too light;
  • Abdominal bloating;
  • Intestinal problems and constipation;
  • Diarrhea or constipation;
  • Difficulty in conceiving.

Due to the variety of symptoms associated with physical pain, different treatments and cures are prescribed for endometriosis, although there is no definitive cure for the treatment of the condition. In addition to drug therapy, it is possible to treat endometriosis with natural remedies and treatments, supplements, and plants and herbs that help counteract the pain. Let's take a closer look at the main natural remedies for endometriosis. 

Diagnosis: How to Understand if it is Endometriosis?

The diagnosis of endometriosis is very complex due to the variety of symptoms often associated with other issues, and in most cases it is even accidental: many women turn to the gynecologist for routine checks or menstrual cycle anomalies or pelvic pain and discover endometriosis. 

The diagnosis of endometriosis is further complicated by the variability of factors and the involvement of different organs. Generally, the diagnosis is made not only by analyzing the symptoms but also by a vaginal examination, a pelvic ultrasound, and tissue analysis.

meditation helps in the treatment of endometriosis

Endometriosis: Treatment and Care

Currently, there is no definitive cure for endometriosis; the therapies used are mainly aimed at controlling the progression of the disease, counteracting the symptoms and relieving pain, but also at combating infertility.

There are several treatments for endometriosis, from medical therapy, to the use of supplements and herbal remedies, to simple observation and care of nutrition and lifestyle.

Medical therapy for the treatment of endometriosis does not cure the disease, but helps reduce pain and symptoms. It usually consists of administering drugs that block ovarian hormones, responsible for the excessive growth of the endometrium: these drugs induce a temporary menopause, which can lead to the classic symptoms of menopause, such as sweating and hot flashes, vaginal dryness, osteoporosis, and potentially infertility.

Another remedy used in the treatment of endometriosis is progesterone-based drugs and birth control pills (estrogen-progestin combinations), although it has been found that this is also only useful in relieving symptoms of endometriosis and does not represent a definitive cure for the condition. On the contrary, the pill blocks hormone production often leading to a series of complications and well-known problems for women.

In some more severe cases of endometriosis, surgical intervention is even resorted to, which involves the removal of endometrial tissue and any cysts, and is performed laparoscopically; however, surgery is performed only in cases of severe endometriosis and in the absence of alternatives, as although it aims to resolve organ damage, it can not only compromise a woman's reproductive potential by reducing her ovarian reserve, but can also lead to experiencing psychological issues such as depression.

These treatments for endometriosis - with the exception of surgery - do not represent a definitive cure; they often merely help alleviate symptoms, and even more often result in other disorders and problems for women, who through these drastic therapies - removal of the uterus, cycle blockage, hormone production blockage - see their organism and fundamental functionalities altered and distorted, not only the reproductive one but also hormonal regulation, sexual activity satisfaction, intestinal and bladder function.

How to Treat Endometriosis Naturally

In most cases, when endometriosis is not in a severe stage, the focus is generally on improving lifestyle and diet, with the inclusion of anti-inflammatory and immune-regulating foods, vitamins, and minerals.

As we have seen from the impact of lifestyle, psychological and environmental pressures on the causes of menopause, the treatment of endometriosis must also necessarily involve valuing the woman as a woman, rather than depriving her of her fundamental functions, reconnecting with her feminine nature by taking care of her body and mind.

We have seen that endometriosis has a multifactorial etiology, in which various causes can contribute, including pelvic energy blockage, immune system and endocrine system problems, lifestyle, and diet.

It is very important to address all these aspects in the treatment of endometriosis; natural treatments and an improvement in diet and lifestyle have proven to be valuable allies in reducing endometriosis symptoms, reducing associated pain, and improving the body's immune defenses and endocrine system functionality. From anti-inflammatory herbs and plants to some dietary adjustments, we discover the best natural remedies for endometriosis.

natural remedies for endometriosis

Natural Remedies for Endometriosis: Anti-Inflammatory Herbs and Plants

In the treatment of endometriosis, anti-inflammatory care is certainly one of the most effective remedies. As we know, endometriosis causes chronic inflammation in the pelvic area and can affect various organs, causing pain and suffering in women.

Reducing pain and symptoms is the main goal in treating endometriosis: for this reason, anti-inflammatory plants and herbs can be used as natural remedies to alleviate pain and soothe inflammation.

Among the main anti-inflammatory plants are:

  • Curcumin
  • Devil's claw
  • Raspberry leaf

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In the anti-inflammatory treatment for endometriosis, magnesium intake can also be included, an important mineral to relax muscles, while massages in the pelvic area with natural essential oils can help alleviate pain.

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Natural Treatments for Endometriosis: Immune System Support

As we have seen among the risk factors of endometriosis, there is a weakness in the immune system, which can be caused by various factors such as stress, irregular lifestyle, and inadequate nutrition. To treat endometriosis, it is necessary to strengthen the immune system by taking:

  • Probiotics and prebiotics, to strengthen the intestinal flora;
  • Vitamin D, with a dosage of at least 2000 units per day, and 4000 units in case of deficiency, until normal values are restored;
  • Zinc and Selenium, which play a role in the immune system and help regulate the menstrual cycle.

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In addition to these supplements, for immune system support, it is important to address stress and immune response regulation: two types of herbal remedies have proven effective in treating endometriosis focusing on the immune and endocrine systems: adaptogenic plants to support the body in times of stress and immunoregulatory plants, which act on immune system balance. 

In particular, the most suitable adaptogenic plants for women with endometriosis are:

  • Eleuthero
  • Ginseng
  • Astragalus
  • Tulsi
  • Rhodiola
  • Ashwagandha
  • Licorice
  • Schisandra

 

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For immune system support during endometriosis, intake generally includes:

  • Echinacea
  • Gentian
  • Aloe vera
  • Astragalus
  • Angelica
  • Garlic
  • Turmeric
  • St. John's Wort
  • Blackcurrant
  • Calendula
  • Goji berries
  • Black cumin or Nigella

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natural remedies for endometriosis and immune system support

Natural Remedies for Endometriosis: Endocrine System Support

Although supporting the endocrine system and regulating hormone levels are essential in treating endometriosis, studies have shown that the progression of endometriosis and the growth of endometrial tissue are dependent on estrogen, particularly on an increase in estrogen in the blood, and the lack of progesterone action on estrogen dominance.

For the treatment of endometriosis, it is necessary to restore hormonal balance, and for this reason, the administration of estrogen in women with endometriosis is not recommended: instead, phytoestrogens are advised, which are plant-based estrogens, weaker than real estrogens, that deceive the body by producing less estrogen and counteracting its effects, thus performing an anti-estrogenic activity. Phytoestrogens can be found in various foods, such as cruciferous vegetables (e.g. broccoli, cabbage), soy, tofu, and legumes.

For hormone regulation, progestin plants are often recommended, which increase progesterone, the steroid hormone also used in the production of the contraceptive pill and to prevent endometrial pathologies, with a substantial reduction in the painful symptoms of endometriosis. Among the main natural progestins are chaste tree and damiana, flax seeds and wild yam, which act on the endocrine system and stimulate progestin activity, reducing inflammation from endometriosis.

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Treatments for Endometriosis: Diet and Nutrition

A correct diet is fundamental in the treatment of endometriosis and positively influences reducing symptoms and alleviating pain and inflammation, but not only that: several studies have shown how it is also important in the prevention of endometrial pathologies.

For those suffering from endometriosis, a balanced diet is therefore recommended, tailored to the season and constitution, rich in healthy, preferably organic foods, with raw elements in winter and warming foods with long cooking times in winter.

The diet should be low in animal fats and hormones, but rich in fiber, fatty fish, fruit and vegetables, nuts, whole grains and legumes, phytoestrogenic foods like soy, flax seeds, sprouts, and omega 3, which reduce inflammation and seem to have an effect in slowing down endometrial growth. It is also important to supplement with vitamin B, vitamin D, and minerals such as zinc and magnesium.

In the right diet to counteract endometriosis symptoms, one should avoid or strongly limit the consumption of alcohol, theine, and caffeine, and all inflammatory foods like red meat, egg yolk, and dairy products, preferring instead foods, herbs, and plants that help detoxify the body and cleanse it, such as burdock and dandelion.

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Lifestyle, Physical Exercise, and Listening to One's Needs in Endometriosis Treatment

As seen, the relationship between lifestyle and nutrition and endometriosis has been proven by several studies, so improving these aspects is one of the first steps to naturally treat endometriosis and reduce symptoms and pain.

It is therefore essential to try to reduce stress, to rest, to nurture creativity and connect with your body, and to engage in light physical exercise, which helps reduce pelvic pain and inflammation.

Women's holistic health depends greatly on feeling capable, empowered, independent, on having physical and emotional stability, on listening to their own needs. As we have seen, there are many studies that agree on how endometriosis is a disease of "competitiveness" and "conflict: unhealthy relationships, unmet emotional needs, dissatisfaction are all factors causing stress and incidents in the blockage of pelvic energy, therefore pursuing a healthy lifestyle, seeking psychological as well as physical balance, and connecting with oneself and others by seeking one's own expression and listening to one's needs is essential to reduce the pressure and expectations that the external world often places on women.

 

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