March is Endometriosis Awareness Month, and it's a topic that should concern us all. Endometriosis affects about 10 percent of American women of childbearing age. It's not just a personal struggle—it impacts families and economies too. Treatments can be tough, expensive, and often does not address the root of the problem. Let's learn more about endometriosis and how to support our loved ones!
What is endometriosis?
Endometriosis causes pelvic pain due to endometrial cells escaping the uterus and attaching elsewhere in the body. These cells thicken, break down, and bleed during each menstrual cycle, leading to painful adhesions and scarring. It's a painful scenario that repeats month after month.
Signs and Symptoms
Painful periods is the most common symptom, but here are some other signs and symptoms of endometriosis:
period pain that radiates down the front or back of the legs
pulling pressure on the abdomen
painful intercourse
heavy menstrual bleeding (bleeding over 80mL per period is considered not normal)
anemia
fatigue
breast tenderness
constipation
Endometriosis is often misdiagnosed as other conditions, which can delay proper treatment.
The Economic Impact
It's estimated that 10% of American women of childbearing age have endometriosis, but diagnosis is tricky and often requires laparoscopic surgery. This condition costs patients significantly more in healthcare expenses and lost productivity due to missed work. In an article published in Frontiers Global Women’s Health, researchers looked at the economic impact of endometriosis and reported this, The total US endometriosis economic burden is estimated to be as high as $78–119 billion annually. The economic toll is immense, affecting career opportunities and financial stability.
Current Western Medicine Treatments
Birth Control: Hormonal birth control is a common treatment, but it doesn't solve the problem. It can have serious side effects and isn't suitable for everyone, especially those trying to conceive.
Surgery: Laparoscopic surgery is often used to diagnose and treat endometriosis, but it's not a permanent fix. Symptoms and lesions often return within five years for many patients.
Exploring Herbal Support
Herbs play a crucial role in eliminating excess estrogen, aiding in progesterone production, and promoting proper liver function. These herbal remedies offer a complementary or alternative approach to managing endometriosis by rebalancing hormones, supporting liver health, and alleviating stress, all of which contribute to symptom relief. Additionally, your herbalist can incorporate nutritive plants that provide essential nutrients, address anemia, and restore energy levels. If supplementation is necessary, your herbalist can offer recommendations accordingly.
In Closing
Endometriosis Awareness Month reminds us of the challenges faced by those with this condition. By understanding its impact and exploring holistic approaches like herbalism, we can better support those affected. Let's stand together in raising awareness, advocating for better care, and offering solidarity to those on their journey to healing. If you or a loved one is looking for support with endometriosis or any other hormonal imbalance, diagnosed or suspected, sign up for a complementary Healthy Hormone Session to get more information about how I may be able to help!