How do you know if you have Endometriosis?
Endometriosis affects an estimated 1 in 10 women in their reproductive years, that is 10% of women!
This statistic could be far greater, as many women may not even know that they have endometriosis, yet suffer from the symptoms.
Currently, there is only one way to find out if you have endo and that is by having diagnostic laparoscopic surgery. There is a salivary test that is currently being worked on by scientist that will hopefully detect endometriosis in the future. This will be a game-changer for Endometriosis diagnosis!
What is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis is the overgrowth of endometrial tissue outside of the uterus, the endometrial cells migrate outside of the uterus and grow on nearby organs such as the ovaries, fallopian tubes and colon…. however, endometrial tissue has been known to reach as far as the nasal cavity.
Problems present themselves when endometriosis occurs on organs inside the body that has no exit path for the shedding of the tissue.
In the uterus, The Endometrial tissue has an exit path, the vagina, so each month when it is time to shed a woman loses the endometrial tissue and blood via the vagina at menstruation. Women with endometriosis can have a build-up of endometrium tissue in the uterus which can contribute to heavy and painful periods.
When endometrial tissue is found outside of the uterus it has nowhere to go when it bleeds and sheds, the internal bleeding can create inflammation, cramps & pain.
The cause of endometriosis is unknown, however, a hormonal imbalance such as high oestrogen is thought to provoke it. Thyroid issues, such as a low functioning thyroid (sub-clinical hypothyroidism) is common amongst Women with Endometriosis. It is important to manage Endometriosis in a holistic manner.
Signs & Symptmons:
Signs & Symptoms can vary from women to women. Some of the most common signs and symptoms include:
- Chronic pelvic pain
- Dysmenorrhea
- Pain around ovulation
- Painful bowel movements
- Painful intercourse
- Heavy/irregular bleeding
- Miscarriages
- Infertility – 30-40% of women with endometriosis suffer from infertility.
An Ayurvedic Perspective on Endometriosis:
Ayurveda sees Endometriosis as a Tridoshic condition involving all 3 doshas, but primarily a Kapha disorder due to the overgrowth of endometrial cells
Ayurvedic management of Endometriosis includes detoxification to reduce ama build-up (An Ayurvedic cleanse or panchakarma), liver support, gut/digestive health support, lifestyle rituals, herbal medicine & a hormone-balancing diet.
Some Ayurvedic herbs that may assist in endo relief include:
Ashoka – Reduces bleeding and pain
Vidari – Nourishes reproductive tissues, supports progesterone & inflammation in the uterus.
Arjun – May support excess bleeding
Turmeric – Anti-inflammatory
Cinnamon bark – decreases heavy bleeding, improves circulation
Dong Quai – heals tissue damage
Maca – balance hormones and endocrine system
Ginger root – anti-inflammatory
Rehmannia root – decreases inflammation & uterine spasms
White Peony – increases progesterone levels, decreases testosterone and balance oestrogen.
Like all herbs & medicine, consult with your health practitioners before taking them. Herbs need to prescribed on an individual basis, taking other health complaints & medications into consideration. All herbs have different qualities, meaning that they can affect an individuals constitution (dosha) in different ways.
If you would like to work 1:1 with me to help manage your Endometriosis please book in for an Ayurveda & Integrative Health initial consultation: https://www.harmonyinspiredhealth.com.au/bookings-checkout/initial-consultation
Namaste x x x
Harmony Robinson-Stagg
