What Is Endometriosis?
A condition associated with the female reproductive organs, endometriosis is a condition in which tissue that typically lines the inner walls of the uterus, the endometrium, grows outside of the uterus. This outer growth is called endometrial implant. Most commonly endometriosis involves the ovaries, bowel or tissue lining the pelvis and rarely goes beyond the pelvic region.
With this condition, the displace tissue continues to act as it would inside the uterus. During the menstrual cycle, the tissue thickens, breaks down and bleeds; however, the transplanted tissue has no way to exit the body. This trapped tissue then causes additional problems including cysts, irritation and inflammation. Eventually scar tissue and adhesions develop. As such, endometriosis is marked by several additional symptoms. Painful periods, pain during or after intercourse, discomfort with bowel movements and urination, excessive bleeding and infertility are all common. Additional symptoms may include fatigue, diarrhea, constipation, bloating and nausea, generally in conjunction with the menstrual cycle.
The exact cause of endometriosis is not known; however, several possible explanations have been identified. Commonly accepted causes for endometriosis include retrograde menstruation, embryonic cell growth, surgical scar implantation, endometrial cell transport and immune system disorder. Additionally, risk factors that are believed to contribute to the development of endometriosis include never giving birth, genetic predisposition, comorbid medical conditions, history of pelvic inflammation and uterine abnormalities.
Several natural remedies have been identified as effective treatments for endometriosis. Common options include apple cider vinegar and blackstrap molasses which help to balance the body’s pH and correct nutritional deficiencies. Charcoal poultices applied to the abdomen work to remove bacteria and toxins and relieve inflammation and pain as does red raspberry leaf tea. Another cure for endometriosis involves supplementing with Chinese herbs including milk thistle and bupleurum root. Additional options include coconut oil, turmeric and iodine. These options along with regular physical activity and a healthy, whole foods diet can relieve and cure endometriosis. See below for more recommendations from our readers!
