Endometriosis Awareness Month

by | May 25, 2022 | Women's health

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What is Endometriosis?

Endometriosis is a condition where tissue like the endometrium (lining of the uterus) grows outside the uterus. This tissue usually grows in and around the pelvic region and can affect a women’s reproductive organs, be attached to the ovaries, bowel, bladder, and fallopian tubes and very occasionally at other sites.

What does this look like?

With endometriosis, the endometrial-like tissue acts as endometrial tissue would:  it thickens, breaks down and bleeds with each menstrual cycle. However, because this 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, bands of fibrous tissue that can cause pelvic tissues and organs to stick to each other.

How many women are affected?

1 in 10 of ALL women have endometriosis. Which is a staggeringly high number of women suffering from this condition.

Symptoms of Endometriosis?

  • Chronic pelvic pain
  • Increase period pain (which can begin prior and extend several days)
  • Heavy menstrual bleeding
  • Bleeding between periods
  • Lower back pain with your period
  • Impaired infertility
  • Pain on intercourse
  • Abdominal pain and bloating
  • Pain during bowel motions and or urination (generally experienced during a period)
  • Constipation and/ or diarrhea
  • Depression and Anxiety
  • Many accompanying symptoms individually

Digestive Issues and Endometriosis?

The association between digestive disturbances and endometriosis is commonly known, with evidence so strong that some researchers have indicated that ALL females with IBS should be screened for endometriosis.

What can you do?

  • Eliminate all known food allergens
  • Minimise Gluten intake
  • Minimise dairy intake
  • Reduce red meat intake
  • Increase fibre
  • Increase “liver supporting” foods
  • Exercise regularly
  • Manage stress in healthy ways
  • Minimise exposure to xeno-oestrogens – typically found in perfume, cosmetics, plastics, receipts, etc
  • Be mindful of amines – alcohol, pickled foods, mature cheeses, smoked meats, and shellfish.
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