What is endometriosis and how can it be treated?
Conventional remedy:
Endometriosis is the presence of the tissue which normally lines the womb at sites outside the cavity of the uterus. The condition is difficult to diagnose because patients may present with a variety of different symptoms. The most common symptom is dysmenorrhoea - painful periods - which often increases in severity over time. Other symptoms include pelvic, lower abdominal or back pain. Pain with exercise, passing water and during a bowel movement have also been associated with this condition. Some women experience fatigue, general malaise and sleep disturbance.
Diagnosis is usually by laparoscopy (telescopic examination of the reproductive organs and abdominal cavity). The aim of treatment is to relieve pain and improve fertility.
The first-line management for painful symptoms includes the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as diclofenac, ibuprofen and mefenamic acid. The combined contraceptive pill containing progestogen and oestrogen is also useful in some cases.
Some forms of HRT can also produce symptom relief, as can the use of other hormones called gonadotrophin-releasing hormones. Referral for consultant opinion is indicated when first-line management fails or where infertility is a problem. Surgery is usually reserved for patients with more severe disease or where fertility is compromised.
Dr Muiris Houston
Alternative remedy:
Patients seek complementary treatment for endometriosis mainly due to their concern about the side-effects of hormonal preparations used or the tendency for recurrence after treatment. Complementary treatment is individual and based on a comprehensive questionnaire. This would involve a full review of all hormonal-related symptoms as well as general health symptoms experienced by the patient.
Depending on the above assessment, treatment options would include homeopathic medicine, allergy management and nutritional supplements.
The choice of homeopathic medicine is specific to the individual, but commonly used medicines include pulsatilla, calc carb, sepia and lachesis. Complex homeopathic and herbal medicines may also be used.
A significant number of women have a tendency towards recurrent bouts of thrush. This may be associated with a variety of other symptoms, including irritable bowel syndrome, pre-menstrual tension, dandruff, athlete's foot and overall poor energy and well-being. This is more likely to occur in women who have been on the contraceptive pill or who have used antibiotics regularly in the past.
If some, or all, of these symptoms occur in a woman with endometriosis, a treatment programme including reduction of yeast and sugar intake, vitamin and mineral supplements and anti-fungal medications should be considered. While not scientifically proven, the theory is that the above symptoms indicate dormant thrush (candida) which is contributing to hormonal imbalance.
General dietary advice for this condition includes a reduction in refined sugars and tea and coffee intake and an increase in wholegrains and fruits. Nutritional supplements commonly used include B vitamins, magnesium, zinc, vitamin E and essential fatty acids all of which are to be taken for a minimum of three to four months.
It generally becomes clear within four to six months whether a complementary approach can provide long-term benefit to endometriosis.
Dr Brendan Fitzpatrick
Dr Fitzpatrick is a medically trained doctor who includes acupuncture, homeopathy and nutritional advice in his treatment approaches. He is a member of the Irish Medical Homeopathic Association.