Endometriosis is a complex and often painful condition that affects millions of women worldwide. While conventional treatments focus on pain management and surgical interventions, functional medicine takes a root-cause approach to address the underlying imbalances contributing to the disease. As a nutritional therapist ,specialising in women’s health, I help women with endometriosis navigate their symptoms through targeted nutrition and lifestyle strategies. Signs and Symptoms of Endometriosis Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus (endometrium) grows outside the uterus, leading to inflammation, scarring, and pain. Symptoms can vary widely, but common signs include: • Severe menstrual cramps that don't improve with typical pain relief methods • Heavy or irregular periods with clotting • Pelvic pain that extends beyond menstruation • Pain during or after intercourse • Digestive issues like bloating, constipation, diarrhea, or nausea (often mistaken for IBS) • Chronic fatigue and low energy • Infertility or difficulty conceiving • Painful bowel movements or urination, especially during menstruation Many women with endometriosis struggle for years before receiving a diagnosis. Recognising these symptoms early and seeking support can lead to better outcomes. What is Endometriosis?  Endometriosis is an inflammatory and estrogen-driven condition where endometrial-like tissue grows in areas outside the uterus, such as the ovaries, fallopian tubes, bladder, and intestines. Unlike the uterine lining, this tissue has no way to exit the body, leading to chronic inflammation, scar tissue formation, and sometimes cysts (endometriomas). The exact cause of endometriosis isn’t fully understood, but several factors may contribute, including: • Hormonal imbalances, particularly high estrogen levels • Chronic inflammation and immune dysfunction • Gut health issues, including dysbiosis and leaky gut • Environmental toxins that act as endocrine disruptors • Genetics, as endometriosis can run in families How is endometriosis treated? There is no single test for endometriosis so it is difficult to diagnose and many women take many years to get a diagnosis. Your GP may offer pain relief, hormone treatments (the OCP or the coil). Although the OCP can reduce bleeding it does not target the root cause or drivers of endometriosis. Referral to a gynaecologist is required if symptoms severe. Diagnosis methods can be an ultrasound, MRI often leading to surgery to remove the lesions of endometriosis. How a Nutritional Therapist Approach Can Help At PaulaMcMeelNutrition my approach to endometriosis focuses on addressing the root causes and reducing inflammation to help manage symptoms naturally. Here’s How: 1. Balancing Hormones Naturally Since endometriosis is estrogen-driven, supporting hormone balance is key. This includes: • Promoting liver detoxification to help the body eliminate excess estrogen • Supporting progesterone levels with nutrient-dense foods and stress management • Avoiding xenoestrogens (synthetic estrogens) found in plastics, cosmetics, and pesticides 2. Reducing Inflammation Chronic inflammation fuels pain and disease progression. An anti-inflammatory diet can help by: • Increasing omega-3-rich foods like wild salmon, flaxseeds, and walnuts • Reducing inflammatory foods like refined sugar, dairy, gluten, and processed foods • Including antioxidant-rich foods like berries, leafy greens, and turmeric 3. Optimise the Gut Health The gut plays a crucial role in estrogen metabolism and immune regulation. Gut imbalances can worsen endometriosis symptoms. Strategies include: • Eating fibre-rich foods to support healthy digestion and estrogen elimination • Addressing gut dysbiosis with probiotics and prebiotics • Reducing gut irritants like alcohol, processed foods, and artificial sweeteners 4. Supporting Detoxification The liver is responsible for processing hormones and toxins. Nutritional support for liver detoxification includes: • Consuming cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts) to enhance estrogen metabolism • Drinking plenty of water and incorporating lemon for gentle detox support • Limiting alcohol and caffeine, which can burden the liver 5. Managing Stress and Sleep Chronic stress raises cortisol levels, which can worsen inflammation and hormone imbalances. Managing stress through: • Mindful practices like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing • Priortising restorative sleep (7-9 hours per night) • Engaging in gentle movement like walking or Pilates instead of intense exercise, which can increase inflammation Final Thoughts Endometriosis is a complex condition, but with the right dietary and lifestyle strategies, you can reduce symptoms and improve your quality of life. In summary these are just a few of the ways I can help. If you’re struggling with endometriosis and need support, working with me can help you create a tailored plan to restore balance and feel your best. Would you like to explore a customised nutrition strategy for your endometriosis journey? Let’s connect