Endometriosis

What is endometriosis?

Endometriosis is a condition where cells similar to those in the lining of the uterus grow elsewhere in the body. It most commonly affects the pelvic area, although it can occur in other parts of the body.

This tissue can cause inflammation and scar tissue, leading to symptoms such as pelvic pain and fertility problems. The exact cause of endometriosis isn't known, although oestrogen can influence the condition. This is why symptoms may improve after menopause, when oestrogen levels fall, although some people continue to experience symptoms after menopause.

According to Endometriosis UK, the condition affects one in 10 women and those assigned female at birth in the UK. While it is typically a lifelong condition, treatments can help manage symptoms. Alongside medical treatment, some people may also find dietary and lifestyle changes helpful for managing individual symptoms and supporting their overall wellbeing.

Endometriosis symptoms

Symptoms can vary from person to person. For some, the symptoms can go unnoticed. The most common endometriosis symptoms include:

• painful or heavy periods
• pain during or after sex
• pain in the pelvis, lower back or lower abdomen
• bleeding between periods
• conception difficulties
• fatigue.

Understandably, these symptoms can impact wellbeing, leading to stress and depression for some.

Endometriosis treatment options

While there is no known cure for endometriosis, there are treatments to help manage symptoms. When deciding which treatment to try, you are advised to speak to your doctor, who will take your circumstances into consideration.

Depending on how severe your condition is, the following treatments may be offered:

• pain medication
• hormone therapy
• surgery.

Alongside medical treatment, some people find that dietary and lifestyle changes help them manage individual symptoms and support their overall wellbeing. A qualified nutrition professional can offer personalised guidance on making balanced, sustainable dietary changes.

Endometriosis and diet

Research into diet and endometriosis is still developing, and there isn't currently one specific diet recommended for everyone with the condition. A varied, balanced diet can support general health, and some people find that changing what they eat helps with symptoms such as bloating or constipation. What helps can vary from person to person.

Some experts believe that certain dietary approaches can help relieve symptoms. Eating a balanced, nutritious diet full of anti-inflammatory foods is thought to be beneficial. Following a Mediterranean-style diet, known for its anti-inflammatory properties, is generally recommended. Some foods can also help to restore hormonal balance, which plays a key role in endometriosis symptoms.

Of course, it can work in the opposite way, too – certain foods may also have a negative effect, triggering symptoms.

While I still have flare-ups, they are less frequent and the amount of time that I spend in excruciating pain, unable to leave the house, has been reduced significantly. This is all thanks to following a wholesome, plant-based diet with very little processed food.

- Jaxx Houghton explains how she manages her endometriosis through nutritional therapy. 

How can a nutrition professional help?

Changing your diet can be difficult, but working with a qualified nutrition professional can make it easier. A suitably qualified nutrition professional can help you review your current diet and explore balanced, sustainable changes based on your individual needs and symptoms. If you're experiencing significant digestive symptoms, have concerns about nutritional deficiencies, or need to follow a restrictive diet, a registered dietitian can provide specialist dietary advice tailored to your needs.

The aim will be to include recommended foods for an endometriosis diet while encouraging healthy, long-term changes. Alongside your new diet, you may also be advised to make certain lifestyle changes. This could include quitting smoking, drinking more water and increasing your physical activity. 

Diet and endometriosis symptoms

Some people find particular foods affect symptoms such as bloating or bowel discomfort, but there isn't a standard list of foods that everyone with endometriosis needs to avoid. Eating a varied, balanced diet can support your overall health. Foods to include as part of a balanced diet include:

• Fibrous foods, including vegetables, whole grains and legumes. 
• Salmon, walnuts, chia and flax seeds (rich in essential fatty acids).
• Iron-rich foods such as dark leafy greens and fortified grains.

Not sure if you're eating enough fibre? Here's an example of how to get more fibre into your diet, from a qualified nutrition professional.

Medical treatments for endometriosis

Pain relief

Pain relief such as paracetamol or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), including ibuprofen, may be recommended. If these do not provide enough relief, a doctor can discuss other pain-management options.

Hormone treatment

Hormonal treatments can help manage endometriosis symptoms by changing hormone levels or stopping periods. Options can include the combined contraceptive pill and other hormonal medicines.

Surgery

Surgery may be considered in some circumstances, for example if other treatments haven't helped or endometriosis is affecting fertility. Surgery can be used to remove areas of endometriosis, and your specialist can explain the options, benefits and risks.

Find support for endometriosis

Living with endometriosis can be challenging, but you don't have to navigate dietary changes alone. While nutrition isn't a cure, a qualified nutrition professional can help you explore changes that support your individual needs and overall wellbeing.

To find a nutrition professional who can support you with endometriosis, explore the links below to connect with someone online or in person near you.