March is Endometriosis Awareness Month, a time to shed light on this agonising, yet often overlooked, misdiagnosed, and misunderstood condition that affects 1 in 9 Australian women. As advocates for women’s health and for holistic wellbeing, we are committed to assisting those affected by endometriosis. Join us as we unravel the many layers of endometriosis, understand its impact, and explore some alternative and complementary approaches, including the use of cannabis, to support those who navigate its challenges.
Endometriosis is a chronic condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus, known as endometrium, grows outside the uterus. This misplaced tissue responds to hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle, causing inflammation, pain, and the formation of scar tissue. Endometriosis can be debilitating, with symptoms ranging from severe pelvic pain and heavy periods to infertility. It is common, and yet it takes an average of seven years to get an endometriosis diagnosis. The physical toll is accompanied by emotional and mental challenges, as many women grapple with the frustration of undiagnosed pain and the toll it takes on their daily lives.
Because it is affected by hormones, endometriosis is most often treated using hormonal interventions, however a growing body of evidence indicates that it is a disease of both endocrine and immune dysregulation; a whole-body inflammatory condition driven by a combination of underlying factors. This new understanding brings about a change of focus and the possibility of exploring other interventions to help sufferers manage their debilitating symptoms.
Improving Gut Health
One theory posits that bacteria could play a role in the development of the disease, and that these bacteria migrate from the gut to the pelvis via gaps in the intestinal wall. Certainly, there's a strong link between endometriosis and gut problems. Not to mention, a strong link between intestinal permeability, inflammation, and the development of immune disorders. Improving gut health should be a primary focus for those seeking to improve their symptoms. While exploring all of the factors that can impact the gut is beyond the scope of this article, our Nutritional Guidelines offer a more comprehensive approach to healing from the inside out.
Targeting the Immune System
Now that we know endometriosis has an immune component, we can look to the nutrients and supplements that we already know support our immune function. Zinc, Vitamin A, Vitamin D, Curcumin, and N-acetyl Cysteine (NAC) are some of the most important treatments to consider.
Reducing Inflammation
Since endometriosis is an inflammatory disease, reducing inflammation is essential for reducing pain. Embrace foods that are rich in anti-inflammatory compounds such as berries, hemp seeds, olives, avocados and citrus fruits, and minimise your intake of sugar, alcohol, and vegetable oils. Eliminating wheat has been shown to be particularly helpful for endometriosis sufferers. Along with an anti-Inflammatory diet, cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant have been demonstrated to have anti-inflammatory properties. Research suggests that CBD, in particular, may help regulate the immune response and reduce inflammation.
In addition to its anti-inflammatory properties, one of the primary reasons that women with endometriosis turn to cannabis is for its analgesic (pain-relieving) properties. Both THC and CBD have been studied for their ability to modulate pain perception and help manage the chronic pelvic pain associated with endometriosis. Cannabis may also offer relief from specific symptoms associated with the menstrual cycle, such as nausea and muscle spasms.
Let's embrace this opportunity to learn, share, and support women to receive the understanding, compassion, and medical attention they deserve. Together, we can break the silence, challenge the stigma, and pave the way for a future where endometriosis is not just known but truly understood and effectively managed.
This Endometriosis Awareness Month, we're offering New Clients a Free 15 minute Introductory Call with one of our Practitioners to explore how you could benefit from our products to manage your endometriosis symptoms and embark on a journey towards greater comfort and improved quality of life. Contact us on 02 4926 1881 to secure your appointment time.
Bright blessings for vibrant health,
From your Ubuntu Community.