Endometriosis

What causes endometriosis? The truth is, no-one knows for certain but a number of theories do exist. Sufferers may experience combinations of many underlying causes and no person is identical in their symptoms or causes. Possible theories include:

• Excessive oestrogen levels that may promote the proliferation of endometrial tissue. Oestrogen levels may be higher for a number of reasons, includingincreased production or decreased excretion
• Environmental toxins that may mimic hormones in the body, exacerbating endometriosis symptoms
• Inflammation may cause endometrial tissue to adhere to other tissues, an autoimmune component has also been linked to endometriosis
• There may also be a genetic component. Endometriosis has been linked to dysfunctions in embryonic development

A number of naturopathic options do exist for endometriosis. Naturopathy is a holistic modality, offering the benefits of the latest scientific and empirical evidence to tailor an individual treatment plan for each patient. Naturopathy aims for immediate symptomatic relief as well as long term management of the condition.
Dietary and lifestyle changes are essential for successful treatment and for maintenance of the condition long term to prevent reoccurrences. Herbal medicines and nutritional supplements are individually prescribed to:

• Balance hormones to improve the relative oestrogen excessand prevent reoccurrences by correcting underlying hormonal imbalance,rather than superseding the body’s own hormones
• Ensure normal menstrual flow and uterine function
• Improve fertility if required
• Decrease constriction of blood vessels and muscular spasm,thereby decreasing pelvic congestion and pain
• Rebalance immune system dysfunction to address auto-immunity basis
• Improve liver function which breaks down and removes excessoestrogen, other hormones and toxins
• Soften and heal scar tissue and adhesions, and drain cysts
• Calm and nourish the nervous system to cope with chronic pain and anxiety as well as balance mood swings
• Decrease heavy bleeding and spotting
• Regulate bowel habits and decrease constipation. Women withendometriosis commonly experience irritable bowel syndrome symptoms which complicate their pain and hormonal imbalance
• Address other symptoms commonly associated with endometriosis, such as depression, low libido and promote healing after surgery

Naturopathic treatments can be individually tailored to fit in with other treatments, including IVF, so as not to interfere with desired treatment outcomes.