In the sixth of a series of seven articles on hormone balance in women, Nutritionist, Belinda Rennie looks at treating endometriosis naturally.

Endometriosis continues to baffle medical science - why do parts of the lining of the uterus attach to organs in the pelvic region causing pain and discomfort and in some cases infertility? Many experts agree, though, that lifestyle and dietary changes can help manage this condition in four important ways: correcting oestrogen-progesterone imbalance, strengthening the immune system and enhancing tissue repair and improving lymphatic drainage.

Excess oestrogen

In previous articles I focused on oestrogen dominance as one of the major factors in hormone imbalance. High oestrogen in relation to progesterone can stimulate a thicker endometrium, heavier bleeding and more periods per year and therefore a greater risk of endometriosis. A diet high in fibre, low in refined carbs with limited sugar and animal fats helps improve the way the body metabolises and eliminates excess oestrogens,

Consuming more organic produce helps to minimize pesticides and growth promoting oestrogens in animal products. Specific herbs for women with hormone imbalance problems include peony, vitex agnus castus, dong quai or wild yam recommended by your health professional.

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Immune system

In my experience women with endometriosis tend to have food sensitivities primarily to wheat and dairy that can overtax the immune system. Switching to goats/sheep products, soy, rice or oat milks (whichever is most suitable) in conjunction with a high fresh fruit, vegetable and wholegrain diet with pulses, nuts, seeds and fish helps to boost the immune system.

The immune system is under threat in many women with endometriosis. Studies have shown that there is a reduced activity of macrophages and T lymphocytes that help to clean away damaged red blood cells that can cause infection or inflammation. Essential fatty acids found in fish and their oils, flaxseed and evening primrose oil can boost immunity as well as reducing inflammation. Supplements of antioxidant nutrients vitamin A, C, E, zinc and selenium, grape seed and pine bark extract are helpful for tissue repair and preventing free radical damage.

Lymphatic drainage

Physical therapy such as osteopathy, lymphatic drainage and massage can help women who have congestion in their pelvic region. It improves circulation and encourages removal of stagnant menstrual blood as well as a healthier immune system. I encourage women to do dry skin brushing before a shower which stimulates lymph flow and then an oil massage afterwards focusing on the lymph nodes in the armpits neck and groin, wiping off the excess with a towel. Gentle exercise and yoga combined with herbs that help lymphatic drainage such as calendula, ginger and dong quai are helpful.

What you drink is also critical. Cutting back on caffeine and substituting high antioxidant and natural anti-inflammatory drinks such as ginger, echinacea and all the wonderful varieties of rooibos will help boost your fluid intake along with natural mineral water. You can do a lot for yourself to change the course of endometriosis integrating nutritional and complementary approaches with Western medicine.

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