Endometriosis – Ayurvedic Help

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Endometriosis

Endometriosis is (an often) painful and chronic gynecological disorder of the where tissue similar to that which normally grows in the lining of the uterus (endometrium), grows outside your uterus. The condition most commonly involves your ovaries, fallopian tubes and the tissue lining your pelvis, but in some cases can extend beyond these areas.

During a female menstrual cycle, endometrial tissue lining the uterus tissue builds up. If the woman does not fall preganant, this tissue lining is shed during her period/menses. However, in women with endometriosis, this endometrial tissue develops outside of the uterus, usually on other reproductive organs inside the pelvis or in the abdominal cavity. Each month, this misplaced tissue responds to the hormonal changes of the menstrual cycle – and builds up and breaking down (in the same way as endometrium), which then resulting in small bleeds inside of the pelvis, which will lead to inflammation, swelling and scarring of the surrounding normal tissue. When the ovary is involved, blood can be embedded within the normal ovarian tissue and form a blister of blood, which is surrounded by a fibrous cyst, called an endometrioma.

endometrosis

The cause of the condition is idiopathic (unknonwn). There are a few current theories, with one formulation that during menstruation, some of the tissue backs up through the fallopian tubes into the abdomen, referred to as retrograde menstruation. A second theory postulates that endometrial tissue travels and implants via blood or lymphatic channels, similar to the pathway of spread of cancer cells. A third theory formulates that cells in any location may transform into endometrial cells. Endometriosis can also inadvertently occur as a result of e.g. a caesarean section. Genetics may also play a role.

The most common sites of endometriosis include: the ovaries, fallopian tubes, uterosacral ligaments, the space between the uterus and rectum, the space between the uterus and bladder, the outer surface of the uterus, and the lining of the pelvic cavity. Occasionally, endometrial tissue can be found in the  intestines, rectum, bladder, vagina, cervix, vulva and abdominal surgery scars. In very rare cases, the condition ca spread to such areas as the lung tissues.

General Ayurvedic Lifestyle advice for Endometriosis:

  • Allow for sufficient rest and sleep. Go to bed at a regular time each day, and best before 10pm. Avoid also sleeping during the day.
  • Keep to a routine as much as possible during the day.
  • Get sufficient daily activity and exercise, without overdoing exercise. Balanced activity/exercise is healthy, but avoid over-exertion.
  • Avoid stress, anxiety, fear and tension.
  • Deep breathing for 10 minutes a day is very beneficial. Meditation, yoga and pranayama can also be highly beneficial.
  • Avoid constipation by following good eating and exercise habits.
  • Avoid suppressing natural urges, e.g. bowel movements, burping etc.
  • Avoid smoking and minimise and caffeine alcohol intake.
  • Avoid sex just before, during and just after menses.
  • Avoid endocrine disrupting chemicals, which can be found in some cosmetics, synthetic fragrances, personal care and cleaning products. It is better to use natural products instead.
  • Keep a diary of the symptoms that are experienced and when they occur.
  • A warm castor oil and/or flax seed oil pack on the abdomen can help with the symptoms.
Endometriosis Ayurvedic Help

Disclaimer:
The above information is for information and educational purposes. As such we are not, diagnosing, treating, curing, mitigating, or preventing any type of disease or medical condition. Before taking any form of natural, integrative or conventional treatment regimen, it is advisable to seek the advice of a licensed healthcare professional.