Everything You Need to Know About Endometriosis: Insights from an Acupuncturist, Naturopath and Gynaecologist

Pelvic pain is a common condition affecting 15-25% of women, and endometriosis is the leading cause in 11% of cases. This condition can significantly impact fertility by causing inflammation, scar tissue, and impaired ovarian function. Early diagnosis and medical intervention through laparoscopy or hormonal treatments are essential to reducing the risk of chronic pain, but additional therapies such as acupuncture, naturopathy, and lifestyle changes are increasingly recognised for their value in supporting fertility.

Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory disease where tissue similar to the endometrium (the lining of the uterus) grows outside the uterus. This condition affects 1 in 10 women and presents in three forms: superficial peritoneal (80%), endometrioma (15%), and deep infiltrating endometriosis (5%). For women seeking to conceive, managing the inflammatory and hormonal components of endometriosis is critical. Both surgical and non-surgical approaches, such as acupuncture and naturopathic therapies, can play a role in this process.

While many associate endometriosis with pelvic pain, not all women experience it. However, pain and inflammation often interfere with fertility. Surgical options like laparoscopy may remove lesions and improve reproductive outcomes for some, especially those with deep infiltrating endometriosis. However, surgery alone is not a cure-all for either pain or fertility issues. This is where integrative approaches, combining acupuncture, nutrition, and lifestyle modifications, become vital to a comprehensive treatment plan.

Studies have shown that there is a link between trauma—especially early-life experiences such as adverse childhood events (ACEs) or sexual abuse—and the development of endometriosis. Trauma can disrupt the body’s nervous system and contribute to chronic pain, including pelvic pain. For women with endometriosis, addressing emotional health through a trauma-informed care model is crucial, especially for those trying to conceive. Acupuncture, naturopathy, and mindfulness practices can help heal the nervous system, reduce stress, and improve fertility outcomes.

Amy Forth, Director of the Acupuncture Pregnancy Clinic, highlights that acupuncture  Research suggests that acupuncture helps reduce inflammation, regulate hormones, and improve blood flow to the uterus and ovaries. Electro-acupuncture, in particular, has shown promising results in reducing chronic pain and improving ovarian function in women with endometriosis.

A 2021 study published in *Complementary Therapies in Medicine* found that women with endometriosis who received acupuncture reported significant reductions in pain and improvements in reproductive health. Acupuncture’s ability to regulate the nervous system and immune function makes it a powerful tool for women seeking to conceive naturally.

Naturopathy and Nutrition with Tamara

Tamara Grysiewicz, a naturopath and nutritionist, emphasises the importance of addressing inflammation through diet for women with endometriosis. The chronic inflammation caused by endometriosis can severely affect fertility, and an anti-inflammatory diet rich in fruits, vegetables, omega-3 fatty acids, and whole grains can help manage symptoms. Nutrient-dense foods like leafy greens, berries, green tea and turmeric are particularly beneficial for reducing inflammation and improving hormonal balance.

Tamara also recommends avoiding inflammatory foods, such as refined sugars, processed carbohydrates, and trans fats, which can exacerbate endometriosis symptoms. In addition, supplements like magnesium, zinc, and curcumin can help support the body’s natural anti-inflammatory processes, making conception more likely.

Beyond nutrition, naturopathy takes a whole-body approach to fertility by addressing lifestyle factors such as sleep, stress, and physical activity. Techniques like yoga, meditation, and pelvic floor exercises help calm the nervous system and reduce inflammation, promoting a healthier reproductive environment.

Tamara also notes that high-frequency transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), castor oil packs and pelvic floor therapy have shown promise in managing pelvic pain, while improving blood flow to the reproductive organs. These therapies, when combined with acupuncture and nutritional support, offer a powerful multi-dimensional approach to managing endometriosis and improving fertility.

In some cases, hormonal treatments may still be necessary to manage endometriosis-related pain and improve fertility. Options such as hormonal intrauterine devices (IUDs) or oral contraceptives are frequently recommended by doctors. However, combining these treatments with acupuncture, nutrition, and naturopathy can offer a more balanced and comprehensive approach to endometriosis care.

For many women, the key to healing from endometriosis lies in feeling safe and connected to their bodies. Trauma-informed care is vital in addressing the psychological and physical effects of chronic pain and endometriosis. Addressing emotional factors, particularly trauma, is also crucial for a well-rounded care plan. 

By integrating medical care with acupuncture, anti-inflammatory nutrition, lifestyle changes, and trauma-informed support, women can improve their overall health and boost their chances of conceiving.

Not sure if naturopathy is right for you but curious to find out? Book in a free 15 minute discovery call with Tamara HERE

Want to know more about endometriosis? See our previous post on Traditional Chinese Medicine herbs and endometriosis here

More information on general women’s health conditions can be found here