Endometriosis is a problem that approximately 5-7% of the female population struggles with, including as many as 75% of young patients (up to 40 years of age). This disease affects physically, through constant pain and discomfort, but also psychologically. Often, patients are unaware for a long time that they have endometriosis. It involves the growth of the uterine lining, or endometrium, outside its natural location. It is an estrogen-dependent inflammatory disease that can create so-called endometrial foci, leading to the formation of adhesions and severe pain.
What causes women to get endometriosis?
- Genetics
- Immunology
- Inflammation
- Environmental factors
- Eating habits
The symptoms of endometriosis are not specific, which is why this disease is often confused with other conditions or the patient does not know where the symptoms come from (it should be remembered that diagnosis can take up to 5-7 years!)
Symptoms that should be consulted with a gynecologist, because they may indicate this disease:
- Pain in the pelvic area (affects 60% of women, often in the lower abdomen or back).
- Very heavy and painful periods. Sometimes they are associated with irregular times of occurrence.
- Pain during intercourse.
- Problems getting pregnant.
- Difficulty urinating.
- Chronic fatigue.
- Anxiety, depression, low mood.
- Sometimes there is pain during physical activity.
- Pain during ovulation.
- Bloated abdomen, diarrhea, constipation.
How to treat endometriosis?
Each case is different. After a specialist diagnoses endometriosis based on tests, he should choose the best form of therapy.
- Pharmacology
- Surgical operation
- Consultation with a urogynecologist
- Dietotherapy (anti-inflammatory diet can support therapy and slow down/reduce the formation of inflammatory foci)
Additionally:
Studies have shown that too high intake of omega-6 fatty acids correlates with higher levels of estradiol and estrone sulfate. Their increase can contribute to the development of inflammation in the body and, as a consequence, the development/intensification of endometriosis.
In turn, omega-3 fatty acids, through their anti-inflammatory properties, have a beneficial effect on the endometrium. Additionally, it has been shown that supplementation with omega-3 acids reduces the growth of endometrial lesions.
It is important that the ratio of omega-3 to omega-6 acids is correct, i.e. 1:5. In our clinic, we perform tests to check the ratio of these fatty acids and it is often very disturbed, e.g. 1:25!!
Vitamin D3 reduces prostaglandins and inflammatory cytokines, which negatively affect endometriosis. Additionally, it affects the body’s hormonal system.
N-acetylcysteine (NAC) alleviates inflammation.
Resveratrol is a substance that has a strong antioxidant effect and reduces the level of endometrial vascular endothelial growth factor.
But what does this mean in practice?
The ingredients listed above can be found in these products:
- Oily sea fish (salmon, mackerel, herring)
- Onion, garlic
- Broccoli
- Brussels sprouts
- Cocoa
- Cauliflower
- Cabbage
- Vegetable oils
- Green leafy vegetables
IMPORTANT! Women suffering from this condition should take care to reduce stress in their lives, implement good sleep hygiene and moderate physical activity, adapted to their abilities (if it causes pain/discomfort, it would be a good idea to consult a physiotherapist).
Remember that early detection of the disease provides faster opportunities to introduce necessary changes to life and appropriate treatment. Thanks to this, we can slow down the progression of the disease and increase the quality of life, which is extremely important, because if left untreated, it can cause health consequences. Endometriosis is a burdensome disease that can make women’s lives miserable. Therefore, it is important to find support in loved ones and be under the supervision of a specialist.