Endometrial cells line the wall of the uterus and build up each month; at the time of menstruation they shed; thus, menstrual flow. Endometriosis is when this lining produces small nests of stray cells, which are transported out of the womb and into the fallopian tubes, bladder, ovaries and elsewhere (even as far reaching as the lungs). The tissue still behaves as if it were in the womb and it continues to fluctuate with the cyclic hormonal changes. Wherever these stray cells settle, they will bleed monthly; coinciding with your menstrual cycle. This blood collects and stagnates, causing toxic build-ups, which eventually become inflamed and finally they develop into blood filled cysts.

The causes of endometriosis are not known, but recent information suggests that a poorly functioning immune system might be partly responsible; if the immune system is not functioning properly then any invasive straying cells that should be instantaneously killed of are not, instead they travel through the blood stream or lymph system and are deposited on other organs, e.g. the lungs. Other probable causes are, poor hygiene, man-made fibres in underwear, repeated infections including P.I.D. (pelvic inflammatory disease), dirty surgical implements, dirty hands and fingers, tampons, retained placenta, and all manor of outside poisoning creates infections. Sluggish periods with improper emptying of the womb each month could also be a possibility, hwever, endometrial cells have been found in young girls which suggests a genetic link. If this disorder is caught early on, many positive steps can be taken but treatment must be very committed. Orthodox methods of surgery and drugs can be used, but the male steroid drugs like Danizol, which prevent a woman from menstruating, have alarming side effects (now little used thankfully). Many patients have felt depressed on it, as their breasts shrink, voice lowers and hair grows. Like pregnancy (another method used to ‘cure’ endometriosis), it gives the body a chance to not menstruate. Other treatments consist of giving synthetic progesterone, but the side effects of these can also be alarming and, many women would prefer to discontinue taking it, rather than suffer the side effects.

The severe pain suffered with endometriosis can take the form of: pelvic pain – especially around ovulation and menstruating; irregular or excessive menstrual bleeding; backache (lower back especially); painful lovemaking; infertility; stomach, small intestine and large intestine discomfort; painful urination; prolonged menstrual bleeding, constipation and diarrhoea in fluctuation.

Nutrition