Endometriosisis conventionally treated with pain medications, hormonal therapies, and surgery.
Illustration by Zoe Hansen for Verywell Health
1.
Rich sources of isoflavones include:
A similar organic compound calledindolesmay also counter the effects of estrogen.
Illustration by Zoe Hansen for Verywell Health
It is found in foods like:
2.
Saturated fats are associated with increased inflammation that may add to the stress already placed on inflamed endometrial tissues.
Both omega-3s and PUFAs are thought to have potent anti-inflammatory effects.
Get our printable guide for your next healthcare provider’s appointment to help you ask the right questions.
Chamomile
Chamomilehas long been used as an herbal aid to calm the body and mind.
These same effects may help ease endometrial pain and cramps.
Prebiotics are foods that promote the growth of probiotics.
People with endometriosis often have an imbalance of microorganisms which probiotics and prebiotics may help correct.
you might get probiotics through dietary supplements or fermented foods like:
Prebiotic foods include:
5.
Resveratrol
Resveratrolis a compound mainly found in berries, nuts, and grape skins.
It may help ease endometriosis symptoms by blocking aromatase and enzymes calledCOX-2that cause swelling and pain.
Several small studies have reported that resveratrol supplements can help reduce pelvic pain and cramps associated with endometriosis.
Doses of 30 milligrams (mg) per day reduced pain scores during and between periods by 82%.
Rich sources of resveratrol include:
6.
Turmeric
Turmericis a spice that comes from the root of theCurcuma longaplant.
It contains a chemical calledcurcuminthat has anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce endometrial swelling and pain.
Estradiol is the most potent of the three types of estrogen produced in the human body.
That said, more clinical research is needed to confirm turmeric’s therapeutic effect on those with endometriosis.
Acupuncture
Acupunctureinvolves the insertion of small needles in the skin to treat pain and other health problems.
Osteopathic Therapy
Osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) is an alternative form of massage.
It involves the hands-on manipulation of different body structures to normalize their functions.
OMT for endometriosis is typically centered around the pelvis.
According to practitioners, lesions form when blood slows or pools in the abdomen.
Even so, the studies were small and of relatively low quality, according to the investigators.
Heat can help relieve cramps and pain by relaxing muscles and increasing blood flow to the affected area.
Nearly 74% of the 357 study participants reported using a heating pad for symptom relief.
Light Exercise
Arguably, one of the most effective treatments for endometriosis is light exercise.
Physical exercise appears to help by strengthening the pelvic floor muscles and easing pelvic adhesions.
It can also elevate moods and relieve fatigue which contributes to depression and increased pain sensitivity.
Light to moderate exercise may be more appropriate as high-intensity workouts can add to pelvic inflammation and pain.
Around 30 minutes of exercise per day on most days of the week is recommended.
Summary
For some people,standard endometriosis treatmentsmay not be enough to manage symptoms.
In cases like these, natural therapies may help.
Get our printable guide for your next healthcare provider’s appointment to help you ask the right questions.
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