Both Endometriosis and Fibroids are influenced by hormones. Endometriosis is the result of abnormal growth of endometrial tissue outside of
the endometrium (the inner wall of the uterus). Uterine Fibroids are muscular tumors that grow in the walls of the uterus. Although these tumors are benign,
they, as well as endometriosis can cause many problematic symptoms for women throughout the menstrual cycle. The most common symptoms include: painful
cramping, excessive menstrual bleeding and clotting, painful intercourse and infertility. These symptoms can dramatically impact a women’s quality of life.
There are a number of theoretical causes of endometriosis and fibroids. These include retrograde bleeding, hormone imbalances, compromised immune function and excess exposure to environmental estrogens (from the food we eat and the environment). Western Medicine offers a number of treatments for these conditions; although there is no known cure. These include the use of birth control pills (to reduce estrogen exposure), laparoscopic surgery (to remove endometriosis), uterine ablation (to reduce blood flow to the fibroid) and hysterectomy.
Natural medicine has shown to be very effective in managing the detrimental symptoms associated with these condition; allowing women to lead healthy and productive lives.
Nutrition: A high fiber (45 mg/day) diet is recommended to assist in regular bowel function. Regular elimination helps to flush out excess
toxins and estrogens. Fiber rich foods include whole grains, bran, fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds and legumes. Reducing red meat, pork, poultry and dairy which lower the arachidonic acid levels and decreases pain and inflammation. When eating meat and dairy, it is very important to eat only organic, hormone free products in order to avoid exposing ourselves to additional estrogens. 2 tablespoons a day of ground flax or flaxseed oil. Flax contains healthy phytoestrogens which are thought to bind to estrogen
receptor sites in the body without stimulating it.
Supplements: Turmeric – Turmeric is an herb that has been shown to reduce environmental estrogens, decrease inflammation and support
liver function. 2 or more tablespoons daily is recommended. Essential Fatty Acids (Fish Oils) have widespread benefits in our body. Most importantly, they are helpful in
decreasing inflammation, endometrial growth and pain associated with endometriosis and fibroids. Recommended dose is 2000 mg – 3000 mg/day.
Milk thistle, dandelion root and artichoke are all herbs that help maximize liver function. The liver helps support detoxification and processing out toxins in our body.
Many studies have shown that acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine can be of great benefit in managing the symptoms associated with fibroids and endometriosis. Acupuncture works to balance our body’s energy (called qi) and also can relax the uterus, stimulate blood flow to the uterus and increase endometrial receptivity. In addition, Chinese herbal medicine can assist in reduction of the fibroids and endometriosis. Finally, yoga and yoga therapy can provide immediate relief from symptoms related to endometriosis and fibroids. Poses like cobra, forward bend and downward facing dog can promote blood flow and balance hormones. In addition, breathwork and alternate nostril breathing is very calming to practice during PMS. It relaxes the body and focuses the mind, helping to balance the mood swings and emotional feelings
that may arise during PMS.
Holistic Medicine believes that it is never any one thing that is the “cure” or answer to our health care issues; rather it is a combination of things that, when done together, allow us to take care of our body, mind and spirit.