Endometriosis is an often painful condition, which involves the growth of endometrial tissue in locations other than the uterus. Common locations for the rogue endometrial tissue include; the outside of the fallopian tubes, the surface of the ovaries, the exterior portion of the uterus or adhesions may appear on the bowels. 

 

The root cause of Endometriosis is still the subject of much dispute. Various theories have been suggested but the most likely potential causes relate to an overlap of neurological, immune and endocrine issues, where oestrogen typically becomes the dominant hormones within the body and/or the immune cells fail in their job to remove and destroy the proliferating tissue. 

 

Surgical intervention via laparoscopy is the most common method used to address symptoms of Endometriosis. The aim is to remove the affected endometrial tissue which in many cases may be useful for pain relief. However, reoccurrence of symptoms is common, which may result in the need for even more surgery. A recommendation for repeated surgeries and the long-term use of painkillers or anti-inflammatory medications is not a practical nor a satisfactory solution for most women and natural therapies should always be considered as an adjunctive support for the patient. 

 

With regard to fertility, repeated surgeries to remove endometrial tissue may be counter-productive as it often results in the formation of scar tissue or adhesions, which is not a favourable environment for implantation to take place making it difficult for pregnancy to occur whether naturally or via assisted conception. 

 

Increased levels of inflammatory mediators are a key feature for many endometriosis patients so following an anti-inflammatory diet, alongside acupuncture treatment to reduce stress and pain symptoms should be considered as a safe and non-invasive therapeutic approach. 

 

For more information on endometriosis treatment and testing options please click here.