Endometriosis is a reproductive disorder affecting more than 176 million women worldwide and one in ten women in the United States. It occurs when endometrium-like tissue is found in nodules or cysts outside the uterus, fallopian tubes or ovaries. Endometrium is the tissue that lines the inside of the uterus.
Common signs of endometriosis
The most common sign of endometriosis is pelvic pain and it’s most noticeable during menstruation. Additional signs and symptoms of endometriosis may include:
- Diarrhea, constipation, bloating or nausea
- Excessive bleeding during or between menstrual cycles
- Irregular menstrual cycles
- Lower abdominal pain
- Pain related to intercourse
- Pain with bowel movements or urination
Natural treatments for endometriosis
While there is no cure for this disorder, there are many lifestyle changes you can make to reduce the signs, symptoms and discomfort associated with it. Endometriosis negatively responds to higher levels of estrogen, so most of the options below aim to lower estrogen levels in the body:
- Eat a balanced diet
- Reduce sugar and sodium intake
- Increase nutrient-rich foods
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Exercise regularly
- Minimize exposure to xenoestrogens (a chemical compound that mimics estrogen)
- Avoid microwaving food in plastic containers
- Avoid using plastic wrap for food storage
- Use glass to store and re-heat food instead
Medical treatments for endometriosis
Medical treatment for endometriosis usually involves medication or surgery. These include:
- Pain medication
After diagnosing endometriosis, your doctor may recommend you take an over-the-counter pain reliever as a first course of treatment. - Hormone therapy
If you find the maximum dose of pain medications doesn’t provide full relief; your doctor may recommend supplemental hormones to slow endometrial tissue growth. - Laparoscopic surgery
A minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery is most often considered for women who are trying to become pregnant.*
* Please allow at least two weeks of recovery time following a laparoscopic procedure as it may cause soreness. This procedure, though minimally invasive, may result in post-operative pain and nausea. Please talk to your nurse or doctor so they can safely manage your post-op symptoms.
Talk to your doctor to find out which option is right for you.
If you or a loved one is in need of skilled endometriosis treatment in McKinney and Prosper, Texas, please call Adriatica Women’s Health at 972-542-8884.