Naturopathic support for Endometriosis pain and bloating – an update

The aim of Naturopathic care in endometriosis is to provide symptomatic relief for the pain and bloating along with herbal and nutritional medicine and dietary and lifestyle support to reduce the impact of the underlying drivers that can contribute the disease progression.

The most common symptoms of endometriosis are –

• Severe menstrual cramping , clotting and heavy periods
• Lower back pain and pain during intercourse which can be deep or superficial
• Painful bowel motions or urination particularly during menstruation
• Fatigue and exhaustion
• Bloating and digestive issues that worsen during menstruation often referred to as “Endo Belly”.

Not everyone with endo will experience all of these symptom’s and the severity will differ between individuals. For some women, symptoms can be extremely debilitating and significantly impact day to day life for several days, or more each month. This is why taking a holistic approach is so important.

Endometriosis is complex and poorly understood. What we do know is that inflammation is at the heart of the condition and the immune system is involved. Genetic factors  ( such as ESR-1, PGR, IL-1) along with microbiome imbalance may also play a role and it is common to see endometriosis and Irritable Bowel Syndrome ( IBS ) co exist. It is not clear whether changes in the microbiome are a cause or a consequence of endo, however, clinical experience suggests improving gut health and healthy microbiome diversity can reduce symptoms of endo.

The most up to date naturopathic approach to endo will –

1. Offer symptomatic relief for pain using nutritional and herbal medicine

2. Promote healthy hormone metabolism and clearance from the body

3. Ensure optimal gut health and healthy microbiome through diet and supplementation

4. Reduce systemic inflammation using natural medicine

5. Support immunity and stress response to reduce systemic inflammation and its associated pain

Endometriosis can have a significant impact on a woman’s day to day life. For some it may be a few days a month and for others symptoms may be present almost daily. Although we don’t have all the answers, a multi pronged approach that includes the right diet alongside specific nutritional and herbal medicines can go a long way to improving symptoms and day to day life.

Kathleen has extensive experience in supporting women with endometriosis and is passionate about educating women on ways to take greater control of their hormones. She welcomes all new patients and is available face to face or online. https://www.kathleenmcfarlane.com.au/contact-us/