Hello All!
March is Endometriosis Awareness Month
For many, Endometriosis is a daily, and often, lifelong ailment that affects every fabric of their social, physical, family and reproductive lives.
We want to educate everyone on exactly what Endometriosis is, how it can be treated and how to get the best care for yourself or those you love.
Take a look and spread the word!
What is ENDOMETRIOSIS?
Occurs when tissue, similar to what lines the uterus, is found outside the uterus.
This tissue responds to the menstrual cycle (hormones), the same way as the lining of the uterus….causing INFLAMMATION, PAIN, INFERTILITY and SCAR tissue formation
********Affects 6.3 Million Women and Girls in the U.S.A.********
*********176 Million Women and Girls Across The World************
Some Famous Faces Bringing ENDOMETRIOSIS to the forefront……
What Causes Endometriosis?
The exact cause is unknown.
Studies have linked chemical pollutants, DIOXIN, to a higher rate of endometriosis in monkeys.
DIOXIN AND PCBs (Polychlorinated biphenyls) are pollutants in our environment, and have been linked to ENDOMETRIOSIS and INFERTILITY
What Symptoms Should I Look For??
1. Pain before and during periods…………Dysmenorrhea
2. Pain with sex…….Dyspareunia
3. Infertility
4. Fatigue
5. Painful urination during periods
6. Painful bowel movements during periods
7. Diarrhea/Constipation/Nausea
8. Frequent Yeast Infections
9. Lower back or pelvic pain
**Affects Women During The Reproductive Year…….
Adolescence Until Menopause********
****This Group of Women Also Have a Higher Risk of Autoimmune Disease, Allergies, Asthma, Chemical Sensitivities and Certain Cancers (Ovarian, Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma and Breast)******
How Is Endometriosis Diagnosed?
Laparoscopy (A scope/camera used to look at the abdominal and pelvic organs)
Is There A Cure For Endometriosis?
No.
BUT THERE IS TREATMENT!!!
Can I Still Have Children?
Yes.
60-70% of women with Endometriosis are Fertile (able to conceive spontaneously without medical assistance)
How is Endometriosis Treated?
1. Full Medical Evaluation by Your Primary Physician and/or Gynecologist
2. Over The Counter (OTC) pain medication, as recommended by your doctor
3. Hormone Therapy
a. Birth Control Pills/Patches/Vaginal Rings
b. Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (Gn-RH)lower estrogen/prevent period
c. Medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera)
d. Danazol
4. Laparoscopic Surgery (Camera/Scope to evaluate organs and remove any deposits of endometrium)
5. Hysterectomy and removal of both ovaries (bilateral oophorectomy)
6. Reproductive Assistance (Ex. In-vitro Fertilization)
Are there Naturopathic (focusing on prevention/treatment/optimal health) Treatment Options for Endometriosis?
Yes.
1. Acupuncture
2. Traditional Chinese Medicine
3. Phytotherapy (Plant and plant extract)
4. Consult a Nutritionist (Referral by Primary Physician (or HCP) is often covered by insurance). Online forums or consultations may be obtained at a discounted rate.
****Modify/Minimize Sugar and Carbohydrate Intake****
****Consume organic foods/meats to avoid growth hormones****
****Supplemental Vitamins and Minerals****
****Omega-3-Fatty Acids……Anti-Inflammatory Agent****
****Improve Fiber Intake (Whole grains/Beans/Peas/Brown Rice/Vegetables/Fruits/Oatmeal/Mustard greens/Dark Green Vegetables/Broccoli/Cabbage*****
FOODS TO AVOID…….
Red Meat…..Wheat (Gluten)…..Refined/Concentrated Carbohydrates (white bread/flour/cake/pasta)…..Refined (white) Sugars and Honey (organic honey is an acceptable alternative)…..caffeine…..chocolate…..dairy…..eggs…..alcohol…..fried foods
Physical Activity
Yoga allows….relaxation….focus….build core (abdominal wall) strength….proper breathing
****All of the above treatment options require evaluation and recommendation by a Physician or other licensed Health Care Professional (HCP)****
This information is meant to be a guide and to assist you in understanding details, regarding your health and well being, discussed with your Physician.
If you have additional suggestions, recommendations or concerns, leave a comment and SHARE!!!
Also check us out on Instagram and Twitter!!
As Always,
Take care. Be well. Be safe.
Lisa Whitty Bradley, M.D., FACS
CEO & Founder
Chicks With MDs, LLC
www.chickswithmds.com
RESOURCES:
http://www.EndometriosisAssn.org/
http://www.endometriosis-uk.org/
REFERENCES:
http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/722605
http://www.endofound.org/endometriosis
http://www.endo-resolved.com/diet.html
http://www.healthywomen.org/content/article/lifestyle-and-dietary-changes-endometriosis?page=3&context=ages-and-stages/29&context_title=
https://www.womentowomen.com/sex-fertility/endometriosis-start-with-a-natural-approach/2/
http://sogc.org/publications/endometriosis-treatment-strategies/
http://www.webmd.com/women/endometriosis/endometriosis-treatment-overview
http://www.pelvicpain.org.uk/index.php?page=endometriosis&gclid=CKzCnsCro8sCFU0vgQodP7IEDQ
http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/endometriosis/basics/treatment/con-20013968
www.endo-resolved.com/endometriosis_yoga.html