Endometriosis can be a life-disrupting condition for many women, typically between the ages of 24 and 40 years old. When endometrial tissues are implanted outside of the uterus onto other organs, the pain can be excruciating, affecting a woman’s daily life. But if endometriosis is detected in its early to mid-stages, the cause can possibly be detected and addressed with nutritional and natural hormonal therapies.
The causes of endometriosis are complex, with genetic factors influencing risk for the condition; women with a first- degree relative with endometriosis have a risk that is 6 times greater than for women without the hereditary factor. Other risk factors include: increased oestrogen levels oestrogen dominance),lack of exercise, a diet high in fat, use of IUDs for birth control, exposure to environmental toxic chemicals, low immunity, poor gastrointestinal function and use of alcohol.
While late stage endometriosis may only be addressed by surgical removal of the endometrial masses, early treatment to stimulate the immune system to heal, decreasing inflammation, balancing hormones and healing gastrointestinal function may be helpful to avoid radical measures such as removal of the reproductive organs as the condition progresses and it’s too late.
Dr. Kathleen can support you with the symptoms of endometriosis with the following therapies:
- Symptom relief with natural anti-inflammatories (ginger, curcumin)
- Investigation of the cause by evidence-based laboratory testing for hormone balance and liver function
- Create a treatment plan
- Dietary modification- include foods known to reduce inflammation (i.e., fish, garlic, fruits and vegetables, legumes- avoidance of red meat)
- Nutritional supplementation-Vitamin C, Beta-Caroteine, Vitamin E, Essential Fatty Acids, B Vitamins, Selenium, Lipotropics
- Herbal medicines- Chaste tree, dandelion root, prickly ash, motherwort
- Gastrointestinal support- probiotics, slippery elm
