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.