Home Remedies and Herbs for Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a painful condition that causes the uterus lining that normally lines the inside of the uterus (endometrium), to grow outside the uterus. When it grows outside the endometrium, the lining can spread to the ovaries, fallopian tubes and the tissue lining of the pelvis. In rare cases, the endometrial lining spreads beyond the pelvic organs.¹ The endometrial lining continues to act as it would inside the endometrium. During a menstrual cycle, this lining thickens, breaks down and bleeds. But it has no way of exiting the body and so it stays trapped inside. When endometriosis affects the ovaries, it can form cysts called endometriomas. The surrounding tissue can become irritated over time, which leads to developing scar tissue. It severe cases, this can cause fertility issues.¹ Endometriosis usually affects girls and women of childbearing age. It rarely affects women who have gone through menopause.²

What Causes Endometriosis?

The exact endometriosis cause is unknown. However, researchers have a few possible explanations. One of the theories is called retrograde menstruation. This happens when endometrial cells flow back through the fallopian tubes and into the pelvic cavity instead of exiting the body. These endometrial cells then stick the pelvic walls and organs and continue to thicken and bleed with each menstrual cycle.³ Another possible explanation is that peritoneal cells (from the abdominal lining) or embryonic cells transform themselves into endometrial cells due to either hormonal or immune factors.³ Other possible endometriosis causes include:^{2 3}

• Genetics
• Immune system disorder
• Endometrial cells attaching to surgical incisions during C-section or hysterectomy
• Endometrial cells spreading into the blood or lymphatic systems

Endometriosis Symptoms

While most women experience cramping during their menstrual periods, with endometriosis the symptoms are much worse than what’s considered typical. Endometriosis symptoms include:³

• Painful periods
• Pelvic pain and cramping starting just before menstruation
• Lower back and abdominal pain
• Excessive bleeding during or between periods
• Pain during or after intercourse
• Infertility
• Fatigue, nausea, bloating, constipation or diarrhea during periods

Many women report that endometriosis symptoms worsen over time. However, some women experience worse endometriosis symptoms than others. The severity of the symptoms doesn’t always determine the severity of the condition.³ Endometriosis natural cures can help to reduce symptoms and alleviate pain during menstruation.

References

1. http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/endometriosis/home/ovc-20236421
2. http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/endometriosis/Pages/Introduction.aspx
3. http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/endometriosis/symptoms-causes/dxc-20236425