TestEndometriosis: a little-known and misunderstood diseaseTest

Does the word endometriosis mean anything to you? Perhaps you’ve already heard about it in the media or on social networks? Or maybe not at all! In fact, even diagnosis takes an average of 7 years.

You or someone close to you must have experienced unbearable period pains… You know, the kind of pain that almost prevents you from walking! And then you think “that’s normal, it’s been like that every month since I was a teenager”. Or other thoughts along the lines of “all women have it, there’s nothing to worry about”. But there’s nothing “normal” about pain that can limit your daily activities.

They say “Knowledge is power”, so this March, let’s take another step towards getting to know our bodies.

What is Endometriosis?

First of all, the term “endometriosis” comes from “endometrium”, which is the tissue or mucous membrane that lines the inside of the uterus. Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory disease. It is characterized by the fact that this mucous membrane is now outside the uterus.

In this way, the endometrium migrates to neighboring organs: the ovaries, fallopian tubes, intestines, bladder or even rectum. In some cases, endometriosis can progress to other areas of the body, such as the abdomen. And it hurts!

Mostly misunderstood, women suffering from endometriosis are often not taken seriously when they talk about the excruciating pain they experience during their menstrual cycle. Because “IT’S NORMAL” to feel pain during your period!

In fact, it’s important to know that the symptoms associated with this disease don’t just appear during menstruation. Pain can be felt during ovulation and even during intercourse.

The subject remains taboo: menstruation, sexuality, women’s intimacy. Yet, according to statistics, 1 in 10 women suffers from it.

The most common symptoms associated with endometriosis :

Of course, every woman is unique. The disease is not experienced and felt in the same way by all women suffering from endometriosis.

Nevertheless, here are the most common symptoms known to date:

• Excessive pain during menstruation;
• Pain can extend to the hips and legs;
• Pelvic pain – lower abdomen – even outside the menstrual cycle;
• An abundant flow ;
• Pain and discomfort during intercourse;
• Infertility (nearly 40% of women with the disease suffer from infertility) ;
• Urinary and/or digestive disorders;
• Chronic fatigue.

To date, the causes of this disease have not been established, although several theories exist. What’s more, it’s difficult to diagnose, as it can take several years before the symptoms become apparent. Fortunately, suitable treatments exist to control pain and help improve quality of life.

Recourse to surgery

Surgery is used as a last resort. Depending on the case and the extent to which the disease has spread, surgery may be a solution. It can also be an alternative in cases of incapacitating pain or infertility.

However, the risk of recidivism remains high. There are also post-operative sequelae that can affect the operated area – intestinal transit usually being the most affected.

Natural remedies

1. Limit or avoid inflammatory foods:

Avoid foods that may cause intestinal pain. In fact, these foods reawaken endometriosis lesions throughout the pelvic region.

Caffeine, for example, stimulates the nervous system and can cause intestinal contractions.
Foods containing gluten, such as wheat, flour or pasta, can also cause indigestion, bloating and intestinal cramps. Also avoid fatty foods, which can cause spasms and cramps.

2. Encourage relaxing activities

Sport, yoga, pilates and mediation are all good ways to relax and relieve tension. The physical activities associated with sport and meditation promote the secretion of endorphins, or happy hormones, which help to inhibit pain sensations.
Some women have also experienced the benefits of acupuncture and osteopathy.

3. Try your hand at plants

For a very long time, all kinds of herbs have been used to relieve body aches and period pains.
Plants such as yarrow are used to treat digestive disorders, heavy periods and irregular menstrual cycles.
Raspberry leaves can also help relieve menstrual pain and PMS (premenstrual syndrome) symptoms.

You can also try green tea infusions, incorporate turmeric and ginger into your dishes – strong anti-inflammatory properties – use geranium, basil or hemp essential oils, or try cinnamon and hibiscus herbal teas.

NB: Discover our natural herbal teas to relieve menstrual pain or our soothing balm, which has worked wonders for hundreds of women. Right here.