Homeopathy and Endometriosis

I’m seeing more and more cases of endometriosis (endo) and having asked around other therapists it seems that I am not alone in this. It is thought that this condition currently affects approximately two million women in the UK.

Definition of endometriosis

A disorder in which pieces of endometrial tissue (usually found in the lining of the uterus) grows outside the uterus.

Usually endo is confined to the lining of the abdominal cavity or the surface of the abdominal organs. The mislocated endometrial

tissue commonly adheres to the ovaries and the ligaments that support the uterus. Sometimes it adheres to the outer surface of the small and large intestines, the ureters, the bladder, the vagina or surgical scars in the abdomen. Because endometrial tissue responds to the same hormones that the uterus responds to, it may bleed during the menstrual period causing cysts in the ovaries as well as the expected

and associated cramps, pain, irritation and formation of scar tissue. As the disease progresses adhesions may occur and the misplaced endometrial tissue can interfere with normal functioning of the organ it has ‘relocated’ to.

Signs and symptoms

Some or all of the following physical symptoms may be present with endometriosis although even quite severe cases can be completely symptom-free and may only be revealed when unexplained infertility is investigated.

• Pain in lower abdomen and pelvic areas
• Menstrual irregularities (eg. spotting before normal periods)
• Infertility
• Painful sexual intercourse (dyspareunia)
• Abdominal swelling
• Pain during bowel movements
• Rectal bleeding during menstruation
• Lower abdominal pains during urination
• Unexplained constipation
• Anaemia and fatigue

Other issues may include:

• Depression and feelings of isolation
• Problems with sex and relationships
• Difficulty in fulfilling work and social commitments

Diagnosis

Investigations may include ultrasound scans, barium enemas, CT scans, MRI scans and certain blood tests.

Causes

Whilst we know that growth of endometrial tissue is stimulated by oestrogen, specifically estradiol (the main oestrogen) the exact cause of endometriosis is unclear. Suggested theories include:

• Small pieces of uterine lining that are shed during menstruation may flow backward through the fallopian tubes toward the ovaries into the abdominal cavity, rather than flow through the vagina and out of the body with the flow of menstrual blood. There is speculation that using tampons which impedes natural blood flow may be linked with endo which would tie into this theory.

• Cells from the uterine lining (endometrial cells) may be transported through the blood or lymphatic vessels to another location.

• Cells located outside the uterus may change into endometrial cells.

• There is a view that certain toxins in our environment can mimic oestrogens (xenoestrogens) and may stimulate endo. One such toxin is the chemical dioxin. Dioxins are released into the atmosphere from the manufacturing and burning of items such as paper and plastics. Research studies have shown that animals exposed to certain levels of dioxin went on to develop endometriosis. This theory has not been proven for humans.

The speculation about harmful toxins is worrying and yet if we tried to protect ourselves from everything we wouldn’t want to breathe, eat or drink. Our bodies have to contend with chemicals in plastic and polystyrene, air borne pollutants, hair and beauty products, drugs and chemicals in our water, crops, meats and contraceptives. We can’t live our lives in a bubble but we can reduce some of these factors by choosing safer options.

Medical treatment

This will depend on symptoms, pregnancy plans and age, as well as extent of the endo. Options include:

• hormonal medication (eg. oral contraceptives, Mirena coil). This aims to stop or reduce the production of oestrogen (and estradiol) by creating a pseudo-pregnancy or pseudo-menopausal state.
• anti-inflammatory drugs to ease pain
• surgery to remove the misplaced tissue

These are all temporary measures and when removed symptoms usually recur.

Complementary treatments

Homeopathy takes the view that it is the whole woman experiencing the disease and not just her reproductive system. A homeopath will look at your symptoms as unique and individual to you and look at how your experience is different from other women who may have the same physical symptoms. These details will lead to a prescription to alleviate the pain and also help to address the underlying causes of the pain. This way the relief should be long-lasting rather than a temporary measure.

There are at least forty potential homeopathic remedies that could help with the symptoms of endometriosis and so it is advisable to seek advice from a professional and registered homeopath rather than attempt to self-prescribe.

Other therapies that may prove helpful are reflexology, acupuncture and herbalism.

Supportive measure to consider

• Meta 1-3-C & Rosemary Leaf supplement – reputed to lower estradiol levels and so slow/stop endo

http://www.sunshinehealthshop.co.uk/products/Meta_13C-2172-135.html

• Liver support – the liver helps maintain hormonal balance by detoxifying unnecessary or harmful oestrogens. Try taking a course of milk thistle to boost your liver function.

• Essential Fatty Acid supplement for help with pain and cramps as well as an anti-inflammatory effect.

• Diet – as you’d expect the advice is plenty of fruit and vegetables, reduce/cut sugar and fat (dairy and meat products), plenty of water and/or herbal tea. A nutritionist would be able to provide personalised advice.

www.endometriosis-uk.org - a great website for information and advice as well as countrywide support groups.

Homeopathy & Hormones

As women we feel the effects of our hormones from the time we hit puberty until we complete our menopause. The various life stages bring their own challenges and these are met more and more by hormonal medications. But we are extraordinarily complex creations and our hormones are constantly – and naturally - being adjusted to the finest degree. The medications we use are hugely clumsy in comparison and it is no wonder that they can bring not inconsiderable problems of their own.

Homeopathy can help your body re-balance itself gently and safely.

Acne
A major problem for many teenagers of both sexes. Just as you’re becoming more aware of the opposite sex then Nature upsets things with a constant production of spots. In severe cases the effects can be serious and undermine confidence. Your GP may suggest that girls take the Oral Contraceptive Pill (OCP) to control hormones and ease skin problems.

Homeopathy can help both the physical and emotional effects of this imbalance so you don’t have to resort to the OCP or harsh chemical lotions.

Puberty and Periods
Our launch into womanhood is not always easy. Periods may bring especially heavy bleeds, cramps, mood swings, erratic cycles and skin problems. These problems can often stay with us into our adult years and make life very miserable. Homeopathic treatment can gently address hormone balance and ease these symptoms.
Top homeopathic tip!

Mag Phos is a great remedy to try if you experience painful period cramps, especially if the pain is helped by a hot water bottle.

Contraception
Birth control methods are using more and more hormones. The Pill has been with us in various forms for many years now. As more research is done and side effects monitored so these pills evolve. We also now have implants, injections and Intra-Uterine Devices with added hormones.

Whenever we add hormones to those that Nature provides we are upsetting our natural balance and cycle. Some women experience adverse effects whilst using these methods – depression, erratic periods, heavier periods, no periods at all and even reduced libido! We are encouraged to think that some effects are desirable – why bother with periods at all if taking a pill will stop them? Some adverse effects only appear when the Pill is stopped. Some women can take up to 2 years to start ovulating again whilst some never regain their ovulation. Just because our periods regain a regular cycle once off the Pill it doesn’t automatically mean that ovulation also bounces back.

Barrier methods are often unpopular because they can be messy, awkward and spoil spontaneity but any adverse physical effects are usually short term in comparison to hormonal methods. (NB: spermicide can upset the vaginal ph balance and cause thrush problems).

Motherhood
A time of major hormonal activity – both during pregnancy and after giving birth. The effects can be felt both physically and emotionally.
Homeopathy can offer support for the wide variety of emotions that may occur at this time – fear of giving birth, not feeling ready, being overwhelmed once your baby has arrived and so on.

Remedies can also be used to treat symptoms such as morning sickness, naturally encouraging a reluctant baby into labour and for aches, bruising and tears.

Once your baby has arrived homeopathy can support you through problems such as colic, breastfeeding issues (sore nipples, mastitis, not producing enough milk, helping to dry up milk when you want to stop), nappy rash, jaundice and generally fretful babies.

Other issues
Women often find themselves diagnosed with conditions such as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, endometriosis, fibroids, etc. These can be painful conditions and can make conception more difficult. For women who have completed their families then hysterectomy is commonly offered. This is drastic surgery and should not be undertaken lightly despite the fact that it is a common procedure. It can affect women emotionally as well as physically and I would encourage women facing this surgery to at least consider natural treatments.

As fertility issues increase so women look to assisted methods of conceptions such as IUI and IVF. These processes involve major hormonal upheaval, the effects of which can cause problems both physically and emotionally.

I run a natural fertility programme involving homeopathic remedies which has proven highly effective.
For more information please see my website or contact me directly.

Fertility patient testimonial:

‘Homeopathy treatment with Debbie was something we wish we had discovered a long time ago. After dealing with significant fertility issues we were amazed after only 4 months of doing the Liz Lalor program we conceived!!
Debbie was supportive and understanding along the way but never pushed anything we didn’t want. If you are thinking about trying this treatment then we can’t recommend it enough and Debbie’s professional approach will not disappoint.’

Tracey (gave birth to a healthy and happy baby girl in January 2010)

Menopause
An area that I find especially interesting and which is sadly viewed very negatively in current times. We strive to stay young at all costs by spending fortunes on ‘miracle’ lotions and potions, inject poisons into our faces to plump up lines, undergo surgery to have fat sucked out of one place and replaced in another. Society should revere these signs of accumulating wisdom but instead we try to stay forever young.

Problems associated with menopause – hot flushes, diminished libido, vaginal dryness, acne (again!) etc. can all be helped naturally without having to resort to Hormone Replacement Therapy. And anyway, who on earth wants to have periods in their 80s???? Menopause should be a rite of passage; a time when women regain their lives. They have raised their children and maybe built a career. Their time is now.

Homeopathy for Autumn

Autumn is with us – bonfires, colourful scarves, hot chocolate and kicking up leaves in the park. It also brings plenty of colds, flu and bugs. So how to get the best out of this golden time of year?


Boost your immune system
A strong immune system will help you fight off colds/flu/viruses that may be going around. Homeopathic treatment can be very effective in boosting your constitution. Other things you might like to consider are:

Echinacea
A good quality supplement or herbal tincture of Echinacea is a traditional remedy for strengthening your defences. It is often advised that it should not be taken on a continual basis as it may lose effectiveness with long term use.
(NB: Please consult a qualified herbalist if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or taking drugs to suppress your immune system.)

Colloidal silver
Supposed to have anti-viral, anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties and often referred to as nature’s antibiotic. Available in spray and dropper bottles.

Vitamins and minerals
Vitamin C and Zinc can help your defence system and can be used daily and especially at the first signs of sore throats, colds, etc. A good quality multi vitamin/mineral supplement is a good start; Biocare and Solgar both have good ranges to choose from.

For children
Kangavites - Multi vitamin and mineral supplement - suitable for children over 2 years.
Dinochews - Multi vitamin and mineral supplement - suitable for children over 4 years.

Swine flu and Tamiflu
A hot topic at the moment and another controversial vaccine. Any form of flu should be treated with plenty of rest and lots of fluids. Homeopathic remedies are very effective in treating the symptoms of flu, including reducing high temperatures, and it may be helpful to purchase a kit from www.helios.co.uk so that you have a selection of remedies to hand.

Some information from the NHS regarding swine flu:

‘For most people, the illness has been mild and self-limiting. The virus has caused severe illness in a minority of people, most of whom had an existing serious condition.’

Newspaper article: ‘Side-effects of Tamiflu outweigh benefits for children with swine flu’
Carl Heneghan, a GP and clinical lecturer at Oxford, and Matthew Thompson, a senior clinical scientist at the university, said that the Government was pursuing an “inappropriate strategy”. Only children with underlying health conditions should be considered for antiviral treatment. Those with mild cases of swine flu should be given paracetamol, fluids and rest, as with any ordinary case of flu.
The authors of the analysis added that parents and GPs needed to remain vigilant in case of complications, while parents of children with a weak immune system, or conditions such as cystic fibrosis, should discuss treatment with their doctors.

For the full article go to: www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/uk/health/.../article6790014.ece

Please note!
Although we all hate to be laid low with colds and flu there is a school of thought that we do actually need a couple of colds per year and flu every few years in order to give our immune system a good workout, and thereby enhance our immune system function.


Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
This disorder is thought to affect up to a third of us but it often goes undiagnosed. The cause is still unclear but there are various theories and suggested treatments. It’s rare to find people with symptoms of SAD living within 30 degrees of the equator where daylight hours are long and very bright. People who have lived near the tropics for part of their lives and then emigrated to this country may be more vulnerable to SAD.

Homeopathic remedies can be helpful in treating the symptoms of SAD.

Other possible treatments include:

Diet
SAD is thought to be related to lower vitamin D in winter although there is no conclusive evidence to date.

Vitamin D can be found in foods such as dairy products, eggs and oily fish but sunlight is our primary source, providing more than 90% of our vitamin D intake. Estimates say that 15-20 minutes of full body exposure to midday summer sun can generate around 250mcg of vitamin D. (Evidence now suggests that sun exposure is far more beneficial than harmful provided you don’t allow your skin to burn.) The equivalent in food terms would be around 30 portions of oily fish, or 500 egg yolks or seven tablespoons of cod liver oil!

There are no government guidelines on a Recommended Daily Intake of vitamin D but a good quality multi-vitamin should be a good start to boosting your intake. Alternatively consult a qualified nutritionist for further advice.

Light therapy
Many people find light boxes helpful. These aren’t available on the NHS but some manufacturers and suppliers may be able to offer you a free trial. Lights can be hired from www.sad-lighthire.co.uk.

Antidepressants
Generally not something a homeopath advocates but in desperate situations you may wish to consult your GP.

More information about SAD can be found at:

The Seasonal Affective Disorder Association - www.sada.org.uk
MIND - www.mind.org.uk/help/diagnoses_and.../seasonal_affective_disorder


Supplements mentioned in this newsletter can be purchased from www.nutricentre.com or call 0845 602 6744 for advice from their knowledgeable staff.


To find out more visit my website at http://www.debbie-richards.co.uk