Endometriosis: Natural Treatment & Management
Endometriosis is a painful chronic condition that affects 1 in 10 women all over the world. There are various treatments on the market which can help treat and manage symptoms and underlying causes of endometriosis. With these, it’s very possible to live pain-free during your period or when you get a flare-up.
What is endometriosis
Endometriosis is a painful disorder where endometrial tissue grows outside your uterus. The endometrial tissue is only supposed to line your uterus, but in women who suffer from endometriosis, the tissue grows in the ovaries, Fallopian tubes, and the tissue lining your pelvis. Sometimes it can spread outside the pelvic area.
Mayo Clinic provides a clear outline of what happens to women who suffer from endometriosis: “With endometriosis, displaced endometrial tissue continues to act as it normally would — it thickens, breaks down, and bleeds with each menstrual cycle. Because this displaced tissue has no way to exit your body, it becomes trapped. When endometriosis involves the ovaries, cysts called endometriomas may form. Surrounding tissue can become irritated, eventually developing scar tissue and adhesions — abnormal bands of fibrous tissue that can cause pelvic tissues and organs to stick to each other. Endometriosis can cause pain — sometimes severe — especially during menstrual periods. Fertility problems also may develop.”
Symptoms of endometriosis:
- Painful periods
- Painful intercourse
- Painful urination/bowel movements
- Lower back pain
- Heavy menstrual bleeding
- Mood swings or fatigue
- Difficulty falling pregnant
Natural treatments for endometriosis
Because endometriosis is typically a life-long (and very unpleasant) diagnosis if not managed, many women search high and low for the cure. The main forms of treatment include:
- Surgery
- Hormone treatments
- Pain medication
Treating endometriosis with these common methods can end up being very expensive, emotionally-taxing, and may cause various unwanted side effects. For these reasons, an increasing number of women seek natural ways to support or even replace the above-mentioned standard procedures.
1. Herbal remedies
By treating the underlying cause of the endometriosis – namely a poorly functioning liver and hormonal imbalance – alternative medicine and methods have the potential to cure the condition completely and prevent future recurrence (rather than just suppressing the symptoms, as is the case with conventional medicine).
2. Massage
While massage is not used to cure or treat endometriosis, it’s used to relieve pain, spasms, or discomfort caused by endometriosis. Regular massage has shown to provide short-term and long-term relief from pain during their period, sex, and in general. It was also discovered that fertility improved with regular 20 minute massages over the pelvic area.
3. Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are powerful anti-inflammatories, which is a key focus for those who suffer from endometriosis. Not only that, but Omega-3 fatty acids have the ability to balance and regulate hormone profiles.
4. Heat Therapy Bags
Heating pads are a simple and cost-effective way to relieve pain and cramps caused by endometriosis. While it’s not a treatment, it can help women manage their symptoms – some women have reported it to help more than pain killers!
5. Diet
Following an anti-inflammatory diet can be a lifesaver for women suffering from endometriosis! Did you know that it’s very possible to reduce inflammation (and subsequently pain) in the body, including the affected areas of endometriosis?
Avoid or reduce your intake of caffeine, sugar, processed foods, and alcohol. Increase your intake of fresh produce, foods rich in Omega-3 (flaxseeds, chia seeds or hemp seeds, fish), and turmeric.
For more visit: www.feelgoodhealth.co.za