Endometriosis: Alternative Treatment

Treatment for endometriosis

Treatment for endometriosis is challenging. In Western medicine, endometriosis has no cure, but treatment for endometriosis can help manage the symptoms. Treatment for endometriosis usually involves medication or surgery. The approach you and your doctor choose will depend on how severe your signs and symptoms are and whether you hope to become pregnant.

Doctors typically recommend trying medication for endometriosis before opting for surgery if initial treatment fails.

Treatment for endometriosis

Medications for the treatment of endometriosis

Medications for endometriosis are one of the most conservative treatments for endometriosis. Medications for endometriosis can help manage pain. The medicines for endometriosis include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others) and hormonal medications that aim to stabilize hormonal balance. Listed below are the most commonly used medications for endometriosis.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for the treatment of endometriosis

NSAIDs are a type of pain medication that can help relieve pain caused by endometriosis. They work by stopping the release of prostaglandins, one of the main chemicals responsible for pain in general and painful periods. Starting these medications a day or two before your period works best to prevent the production of prostaglandins and, therefore, reduce period pain. It may take a while and several doses for NSAIDs to block the production of prostaglandins and reduce pain. NSAID medicines do not diminish or avert the growth of endometrial tissue.

Most NSAIDs are available without a prescription.

Ibuprofen (the generic for Advil and Motrin): Follow the instructions on the package carefully. Generally, two tablets are taken for the first dose and one tablet every four to six hours as needed. These should be taken with food and, perhaps, most effectively, if started a day or two before the pain begins. Doctors can prescribe higher doses.

Naproxen (example of brands: Aleve, Naprosyn): Follow the instructions on the package as the dose and frequency vary depending on the formulation. Generally, depending on the formulation, two tablets are taken for the first dose and one tablet every 8–12 hours as needed. All tablets should be taken with food and a full glass of water. Like ibuprofen, naproxen may be most effective if started a day or two before the onset of typical menstrual pain. Doctors can prescribe higher doses.

The disadvantage of NSAIDs is that they do not permanently relieve endometriosis-related pain. NSAIDs are more effective when associated with other forms of treatment, such as hormonal birth control pills. Although uncommon, serious side effects from NSAIDs include stomach upset, kidney problems, and worsened high blood pressure.

The most common side effects of NSAIDs are:

Rare but severe side effects of NSAIDs include:

Hormonal medications

Supplemental hormones are sometimes effective in reducing or eliminating the pain of endometriosis. The rise and fall of hormones during the menstrual cycle causes endometrial implants to thicken, break down, and bleed. Hormone medication may slow endometrial tissue growth and prevent new endometrial tissue implants.

Hormone therapy isn’t a permanent fix for endometriosis. You could experience a return of your symptoms after stopping treatment. The most common pharmaceutical hormonal drugs used to treat endometriosis are:

  • Hormonal contraceptives: Hormonal contraceptives decrease fertility by preventing endometrial tissue’s monthly growth and buildup. Birth control pills, patches, and vaginal rings can reduce or even eliminate the pain of less severe endometriosis. The medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera) injection is also effective in stopping menstruation. It stops the growth of endometrial implants. It relieves pain and other symptoms. However, this may not be your first choice because of the risk of decreased bone production, weight gain, and an increased incidence of depression in some cases.
  • Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists and antagonists: Women take gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists and antagonists to block the production of estrogen, which stimulates the ovaries. Estrogen is the hormone that’s mainly responsible for the development of female sexual characteristics. Blocking the production of estrogen prevents menstruation and creates artificial menopause. GnRH therapy has side effects like vaginal dryness and hot flashes. Taking small doses of estrogen and progesterone simultaneously can help limit or prevent these symptoms.
  • Danazol: Danazol is another medication used to stop menstruation and reduce symptoms. While taking danazol, the disease may continue to progress. Danazol can have side effects, including acne and hirsutism. Hirsutism is abnormal hair growth on your face and body.

Surgical treatment

Surgery for endometriosis

Surgery for endometriosis is another treatment for endometriosis. If you have endometriosis and are trying to become pregnant, surgery for endometriosis can help remove the endometriosis implants while preserving your uterus and ovaries. If you have severe pain from endometriosis, you may also benefit from surgery for endometriosis.

Surgical treatment for endometriosis

Endometriosis, laparoscopic surgery

During endometriosis laparoscopic surgery, your surgeon inserts a slender viewing instrument (laparoscope) through a small incision near your navel and inserts instruments to remove endometrial tissue through another small incision. After endometriosis laparoscopic surgery, your doctor may recommend taking hormone medication to help improve pain.

However, there are significant risks to all surgeries, the most important of which is subsequent adhesion formation. Once the patient has surgery for endometriosis, she runs a significant risk of having tethering of the ovaries with subsequent decreased infertility.

The results of surgery can, therefore, be somewhat variable and can have, in fact, a deleterious effect on the patient’s fertility status. Surgery should, therefore, be approached with caution but has a place to play in the definitive management of endometriosis.

 What is endometriosis?

The definition of endometriosis is a disorder affecting women’s reproductive organs where cells that resemble the uterus lining, called endometrial cells, grow outside the uterus. The endometrium-like tissue most commonly grows in the pelvis, the ovaries, and the fallopian tubes. In severe cases, it can spread behind the reproductive system.

Endopain-Endometriosis

Approximately 10% of reproductive-aged women have endometriosis.  However, the actual prevalence is unknown since the diagnosis requires laparoscopy (a surgery where a doctor looks at the abdomen with a camera through the belly button) to visualize and biopsy endometriosis lesions.  Endometriosis is seen in 12–32% of women having pelvic pain surgery, and up to 50% of women having surgery for infertility. Endometriosis is rarely found in girls before they start their period, but it is seen in up to half of young girls and teens with pelvic pain and painful periods.

Endometriosis is the growth of tissue that is typically found in the lining of the uterus (endometrium) in a location outside of the uterine cavity. It can occur on the ovaries, surface of the uterus, intestine, or other organs. With the changing hormone levels during the menstrual cycle, the tissue may grow and break down, leading to pain and eventual scar formation. This condition is estimated to impact more than 10% of US women ages 15–44.

Types of Endometriosis

There are three main types of endometriosis, based on where it is:

Superficial peritoneal lesion.

This is the most common kind. You have lesions on your peritoneum, a thin film that lines your pelvic cavity.

Endometrioma (ovarian lesion).

These dark, fluid-filled cysts, also called chocolate cysts, form deep in your ovaries. They don’t respond well to treatment and can damage healthy tissue.

Deep-infiltrating endometriosis.

This type grows under your peritoneum and can involve organs near your uterus, such as your bowels or bladder. About 1% to 5% of women with endometriosis have it.

Causes of endometriosis

Doctors don’t know the exact causes of endometriosis. Some experts, however, believe genes could be one of the causes of endometriosis. If your mom or sister has endometriosis, you’ll likely get it. Research shows that it tends to worsen from generation to generation.

Some women with endometriosis also have immune system disorders. But doctors aren’t sure whether there’s a link.

Symptoms of endometriosis

The symptoms of endometriosis vary. Some women experience mild symptoms, but others can have moderate to severe symptoms. The severity of your pain doesn’t indicate the degree or stage of the condition. You may have a mild form of the disease yet experience agonizing pain. It’s also possible to have a severe form and have very little discomfort.

endometriosis symptoms

Pelvic pain is the most common symptom of endometriosis. Other symptoms of endometriosis include:

  • Painful periods
  • Pain in the lower abdomen before and during menstruation
  • Cramps one or two weeks around menstruation
  • Heavy menstrual bleeding or bleeding between periods
  • Infertility
  • Pain following sexual intercourse
  • Discomfort with bowel movements
  • Lower back pain that may occur at any time during your menstrual cycle

Some people do not experience any symptoms of endometriosis. It would be best to get regular gynecological exams, allowing your gynecologist to monitor changes. This is particularly important if you have two or more symptoms.

Who Is at Risk for Endometriosis?

Risk factors for endometriosis vary. It is most common in women

  • Whoever is in their 30s and 40s
  • Whoever has not given birth
  • Whoever has periods that last longer than seven days
  • Whoever started menstruating before age 12
  • Whoever has short menstrual cycles (shorter than 28 days),
  • Whoever has a family history (mother or sister) of the condition.

A natural treatment for endometriosis

Natural treatment for endometriosis is a type of treatment for endometriosis that aims to alleviate the symptoms of endometriosis and address the underlying causative factors without causing side effects by using natural remedies and holistic techniques.

Natural Treatment

Alternative therapies work both to relieve the symptoms of endometriosis and to address the underlying causative factors. As a general rule, little scientific evidence supports using alternative therapy to treat endometriosis. The potential damage tends to be low, so it generally won’t worsen things.

Listed below are the most common natural treatments for endometriosis:

Home remedies for endometriosis—the most common natural treatment for endometriosis

Home remedies for endometriosis represent a natural treatment for endometriosis that is easy to achieve at home without costing you much. Listed below are home remedies for endometriosis:

Pelvic massage

  • A study found that massaging the pelvic area, including parts of the abdomen, sides, and back, helped reduce menstrual pain associated with endometriosis. This type of massage may be more comfortable shortly before the menstrual period. It may also be helpful to use massage oil.

Turmeric

  • This home remedy for endometriosis has anti-inflammatory properties. Researchers showed that turmeric might inhibit estradiol, a form of estrogen that may help to prevent growth. Turmeric supplements are available as capsules. The spice is often found in teas and may be added to meals.

Heating pad

  • Applying heat to your abdominal area can help when your pain is at its worst. This relaxes your pelvic muscles and keeps the blood flowing, which can reduce cramping.

Warm bath

  • This home remedy for endometriosis is similar to a heating pad. A warm bath surrounds your body with heat, which can help you chill out and relieve your pain. Throw in a bath bomb with lavender, sage, marjoram, and rose essential oils, which could reduce menstrual pain.

Multivitamins

  • A daily multivitamin can help ensure you get various vitamins and minerals. Research has shown that supplementing with antioxidants such as vitamins E and C can lessen endometriosis pain. Taking a multivitamin may also help increase your chances of getting pregnant. Talk to your doctor to find a combination of vitamins and minerals that works best for you.

Diet for endometriosis—an essential part of any natural treatment for endometriosis

Diet

What you eat has a significant effect on how you feel. Research has shown that a diet for endometriosis can help reduce endometriosis symptoms. Try a diet for endometriosis rich in leafy greens and vegetables, omega-3 fatty acids (from foods like fish, nuts, and seeds), and green tea. Try to limit high-FODMAP foods, gluten, and dairy.

Trans fats cause inflammation, even for people without endometriosis, so anyone with the condition should try limiting them. Refined carbohydrates could also inflame your gut and cause pain. Research has shown that eating refined foods can also affect your fertility, so watching your diet is essential if you want to get pregnant.

Herbs for endometriosis: an effective home-based natural treatment for endometriosis

Herbs are a natural treatment for endometriosis that may help alleviate its symptoms. Listed below are herbs for endometriosis.

Chamomile

  • This herb for endometriosis can reduce the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome. Some natural healers suggest that drinking chamomile tea can help with endometriosis symptoms. A study showed that chrysin, a compound found in chamomile, suppressed the growth of endometrial cells.

Peppermint

  • Peppermint has antioxidant properties, which can reduce pelvic pain from endometriosis. Peppermint can also reduce the severity of pain from menstrual cramps.

Ashwagandha

  • This herb for endometriosis is often used as a supplement to help reduce stress. ‌Women with endometriosis had significantly higher cortisol levels, a hormone involved in the stress response, than average. Ashwagandha potentially plays a role in reducing the stress that may contribute to the worsening of endometriosis.

Acupuncture and homeopathy for Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a medical condition characterized by the spread of the endometrial lining from the uterus to the pelvic organs, causing scarring, adhesions, and even blockages.  This condition affects women in their 30s and 40s and is familiar to women with fertility-related issues. Endometriosis is also common in women who have never had children.Endometriosis Myths and Realities The primary symptom of this condition is pelvic pain, which occurs before and during menstrual cycles. The extent of pain felt does not determine the gravity of the condition. Some women with endometriosis feel slight or no pain at all, and their condition is severe, while others might feel intense pain but mild endometriosis. The diagnosis of this condition through infertility investigation determines the state of the condition.

The causative factors for endometriosis remain uncertain, but a few things are considered likely to be responsible for it. The first is that changes in antibodies at the cellular and hormonal levels of the body are most likely to blame. Another theory suspects a backward menstrual cycle flow from the uterus to the pelvis, leading to inflammation. The third is a genetic flow from mothers to the female generational line.

Acupuncture for endometriosis: an ancient Chinese natural treatment for endometriosis

The Traditional Chinese Medicine TCM considers endometriosis as an energy circulation dysfunctionality that acupuncture can rectify. Acupuncture treatment is effective in easing pain and helping the hormones stabilize. Acupuncture also helps the body naturally fight pain by releasing endorphins.

Endometriosis Acupuncture

The acupuncture procedure involves the insertion of long, thin needles that are sterilized and disposable along the meridians associated with endometriosis. The procedure takes between 20 and 45 minutes. Please note that the acupuncture procedure sometimes needs to be repeated for efficiency and for the body to maximize its benefits. You must discuss the number of sessions you will need with your acupuncturist.

Acupuncture for endometriosis can significantly decrease the severity of endometriosis symptoms. Many patients report decreased pain after four weekly treatments and continued improvement with subsequent treatments. For changes in the menstrual cycle, regularity or treatment of fertility often requires several months of regular acupuncture.

According to research, acupuncture for endometriosis promotes blood circulation and regulates hormones. It also appears to have an anti-inflammatory effect and is effective for pain relief because of its effect on blood chemistry and, in particular, endorphin levels.

Endeavor to employ the services of a certified acupuncturist.

Homeopathy for endometriosis: the #1 natural treatment for endometriosis

Treatment with homeopathy for endometriosis takes place at all levels, with locals, generals, nosodes, and constitutions, and is worth considering. Nobody got worse. Patients should be able to reduce or discontinue their conventional medication.

Homeopathy

Homeopathy for endometriosis is a natural treatment for endometriosis that offers natural and safe management of endometriosis. They prevent the further progression of the disease.

Homeopathic medicine is one of the most prevalent holistic systems in modern medicine. The selection of a remedy is based on the theory of individualization and similarity of symptoms using a holistic approach. This is the only way to regain total health, removing all signs and symptoms from which the patient suffers. Homeopathy aims not only to treat endometriosis but also to address its cause and individual susceptibility. Thus, the primary aim of homeopathy for endometriosis is to provide both symptomatic relief to a patient and, at the same time, stabilize hormonal levels in women’s reproductive systems and thus turn the disease into a self-healing state. Homeopathy for endometriosis also treats related issues, most notably infertility arising from inflammation, adhesions, and scarring within the fallopian tubes.

Homeopathic treatment offers a natural and safe cure for endometriosis. They prevent the further progression of the disease. The primary purpose of homeopathic remedies for endometriosis is to provide symptomatic relief to the patient. They also treat related problems in this process, mainly infertility resulting from inflammation, adhesions, and scarring in the fallopian tubes.

Homeopathic treatment is an alternative treatment that aims to stimulate the body’s defense mechanism, which is the immune system, to set the body in motion for self-healing. In doing this, some herbs are used to manage the pain experienced in endometriosis. However, the method of treatment addresses the underlying hormonal imbalances that lead to emotional instability and endometriosis.

The treatment procedure starts by knowing the medical history of the patient and the current symptoms experienced in the body. Homeopathy treatment is an individually tailored treatment that is not generalized. With the aid of proper diagnosis and the information given by the patient, a unique treatment plan is put in place to treat the patient’s condition.  

Holistic treatment is applied, leaving out any form of disease suppression and striking out the possibility of a relapse. This treatment boosts the immunity in the body, and the body can self-heal.

Here are a few remedies in the homeopathic treatment of endometriosis:

–     Xanthoxylum: It is the best homeopathic remedy for endometriosis when periods are very painful, with excruciating pain in the pelvis, back, thighs, and legs.

–    Sepia: This remedy treats irregular menses and painful intercourse characterized by clutching pain from the navel to the pelvis. Sepia is a reliable homeopathic medicine for endometriosis, indicated for severe pelvic tenderness. Women prescribed Sepia may also complain of pelvic grasping, stabbing, and grasping pain. Another common complaint specifically related to this medicine is painful intercourse.

–    Nux Vomica treats irregular and painful menses associated with pelvic pain and a constant urge to stool. Patients also show signs of nausea and a sour taste in the morning.

–    Murex: Treats chronic pain, pain in the breasts, and a feeling of pressure on the sore spot of the pelvis during menses. Menses are irregular, with heavy flow, and clots are present.

–     Sabina: It is indicated for endometriosis when colicky or labor-like pains appear in the pelvis.

–     Cimicifuga: This is another homeopathic medicine for endometriosis used in cases of severe, bearing-down pain in the lower abdomen, uterine region, and lower back during periods. It is also prescribed for darting pains in the pelvis from hip to hip.

Treatments are not limited to these few remedies. Many varieties are used to treat each unique case.

Homeopathy offers a natural and safe treatment for endometriosis. Homeopathic medicines are derived from natural sources such as microelements, wildlife, and plants and are, therefore, non-toxic. They prevent the further progression of the disease. Homeopathic remedies for endometriosis mainly aim to relieve the patient’s symptoms. They also treat related problems, mainly infertility, resulting from inflammation, adhesions, and scarring within the fallopian tubes.

Treatment for endometriosis in Philadelphia

Victor Tsan, MD - founder of the Philadelphia Homeopathic Clinic

Philadelphia Homeopathic Clinic is the division of the Philadelphia Holistic Clinic where, under the strict supervision of Victor Tsan, MD, medical professionals use

for the successful treatment of endometriosis and other gynecological conditions.

To schedule your appointment for evaluation and treatment, contact our clinic at (267) 403-3085 or use the online booking application.