Endometriosis and conception

Endometriosis is a medical condition in women in which endometrial like cells appear and flourish in areas outside the uterine cavity. Though they have been found in other regions of the body, they are commonly reported to be on the ovaries. Lined by endometrial cells, the uterine cavity is always under the influence of female hormones during reproductive years.

These endometrial-like cells in areas outside the uterus (endometriosis) are influenced by hormonal changes and respond similarly as do those cells found inside the uterus. Symptoms often worsen over time with the menstrual cycle.

Endometriosis is typically seen during the reproductive years and effects 5% to 10% of women of which approximately 30% have fertility problems. Symptoms may depend on the site of active endometriosis. Endometriosis is a common finding in women with fertility related issues.

Normally, at the end of a woman’s menstrual cycle; if a woman is not pregnant; tissue lining the inside of the uterus is built up and shed or discharged as a menstrual flow. However with endometriosis, endometrial-like tissue forms on the exterior wall of the uterus inside the abdominal cavity and unlike normal dispelling of menstrual flow, this has no place to go when it breaks apart, bleeds or sheds, thus it often remains in the abdominal cavity causing inflammation and swelling. Later on, endometrial tissue may become lesions, nodules, growths or implants. Less than 1% report cancer-related issues due to endometriosis.

Some studies report that once a woman modifies her diet, adds supplements that aid in creating optimal uterine health and gets pregnant, the endometrial disease is gone thereafter.

The Cause?

In addition to being pre-disposed to the disease due to heredity, one theory in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) cites endometriosis as a disease which is caused by the stagnation of blood.

The stagnation may occur due to one or more abortions and/or lower abdominal or pelvic surgeries, engaging in sexual intercourse during the menstrual cycle, stress, physical or emotional abuse and the all important diet.

How do I combat endometriosis?

To combat or remedy endometriosis, studies have shown women have had great success with one or more of the following suggestions.

•Avoid Cold Foods

Ingestion of cold foods and drinks can congeal (solidify or thicken) blood and thus contribute to blood stagnation that is known to cause endometriosis. Ice cream, frozen yogurt, frozen drinks, ice in drinks and cold food products.

•Avoid Sexual Intercourse During Menstrual Cycle

TCM doctors theorize the possibility of blood stagnation during sexual intercourse, thus the correlation between that and endometrial issues.

•Eliminate Caffeine & Poor Foods Choices

Consider ceasing all forms of caffeine from the diet permanently. Restrict sugars, alcohol, salt, acid forming foods such as red meats, eggs, fried foods and dairy products to prevent estrogen production. Avoid chocolates. Think vegetables and fresh fruits.

•Reduce Stress

Stress is known to exacerbate endometriosis and cause reproductive issues.

Although the following list is not regarded in any way by the U.S. FDA, the supplements listed have been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for centuries to aid women in creating optimal reproductive health. With that said, always consult your doctor before taking any supplements.

•Dong Quai