March is Endometriosis Awareness Month

Currently, women’s health seems to be gaining increasing and much overdue awareness, thanks to the latest media traction on perimenopause and menopause. However, we wish to see even greater recognition given to a variety of women’s health concerns. This includes raising awareness of endometriosis, a condition that affects an estimated 10% of women worldwide, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). 

Endometriosis is a condition that causes the development of uterine-like tissue outside the uterus, often in the pelvis but also in the abdomen and chest. This can lead to symptoms such as pelvic pain, bloating, irregular or heavy menstrual bleeding, infertility, pain with intercourse, and fatigue. Endometriosis can also impact digestion and bowel movements, urination, and mental health. 

Diagnosing Endometriosis 

Diagnosing endometriosis may include an ultrasound or an MRI. But, it is definitively diagnosed through laparoscopy, a minimally invasive surgical procedure wherein endometrial tissue is biopsied and removed. 

For some, endometriosis symptoms appear at the onset of puberty. For others, symptoms may go unseen or mistaken for other conditions, such as IBS. Many may even experience “silent symptoms” wherein they are unaware of their endometriosis until trying to conceive.  For these reasons, the average time to diagnose endometriosis is between 4 and 12 years. For future generations of women, it’s important we advocate for increased awareness and access to care, so they may be able to detect and support endometriosis sooner. 

At this time, the cause of endometriosis is largely unknown, and there is no known definitive treatment. However, there are many known contributing factors to endometriosis, as well as methods of support.  Based on individual needs, condition severity, and preferences, endometriosis patients can discuss different approaches with their doctors. 

Contributing Factors

Endometriosis is considered an estrogen-dominant condition. Naturopathic medicine can support endometriosis through several different approaches.  These often include supporting estrogen metabolism, supporting hormone balance, and reducing inflammation. Additionally, we also layer approaches to strengthen the body’s nutrient status, microbiome, nervous system, and immune system, as this is foundational to navigating many health conditions. 

If you or someone you know is looking for support with endometriosis, consider reaching out to one of our naturopathic doctors. We have many strategies to support women’s health, including those related to endometriosis. Together, we can collaborate on sustainable ways to support health and well-being while navigating endometriosis.

References:

1. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/endometriosis