March marks Endometriosis Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about this misunderstood condition that affects millions of women worldwide. In Australia alone, it's now estimated that 1 in 7 women of reproductive age live with endometriosis (that’s a staggering 14%), yet many continue to suffer in silence due to lack of understanding, support and delayed diagnosis. In fact, 2 out of the 3 women that are behind The Golden Mother have endometriosis and have had their own struggles with this condition. Being the ‘invisible disease’ it is commonly dubbed, you just never know who is struggling with this behind closed doors.
Understanding Endometriosis:
Endometriosis is a chronic condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the womb, causing inflammation, pain, and often fertility issues. Despite its prevalence, the exact cause of endometriosis remains unknown, making diagnosis and treatment challenging. It’s considered an inflammatory autoimmune disease where there is oestrogen dominance and hormone imbalance.
Current Research & Statistics:
Recent studies have shed light on various aspects of endometriosis, from its potential genetic links to the impact of lifestyle factors on symptom severity. In Australia, initiatives like the National Endometriosis Clinical and Scientific Trials (NECST) Network are driving research efforts to improve diagnosis, treatment, and management of the condition. This is an area that needs so much more funding and resources into it.
Enhance your healing journey…
While there is no cure for endometriosis, self-care practices can play a significant role in managing symptoms and improving overall quality of life as well as fertility. Here are some self-care tips we share with our own patients in clinic and follow ourselves.
1. Nourish with Nutrient-Rich Foods:
Incorporate anti-inflammatory foods like leafy greens, turmeric, and omega-3 fatty acids into your diet to support hormonal balance and reduce inflammation. Warming, cooked nourishing foods will support digestion & your reproductive organs. Avoid cold, raw and frozen foods and drinks. Try our ‘Golden Goodness Mix’, packed with turmeric and warming spices, for a nourishing boost.
2. Self-Care practices
🎗️Moxa (moxibustion) on your lower abdomen
🎗️Castor oil packs regularly over your uterus as well as your liver
🎗️Vaginal steaming (using sitz)
🎗️Womb / abdominal massage (learn how with our Golden Fertility Health online course)
3. Mindfulness & relaxation Techniques:
Stress can exacerbate endometriosis symptoms, so prioritising relaxation is crucial. Practice mindfulness, deep breathing, journaling, or meditation to calm the mind and body. Our soothing herbal tea can be the perfect companion for your relaxation rituals.
4. Support with Natural Remedies:
Herbal supplements like ginger and evening primrose oil may offer relief from endometriosis symptoms. Treatment & Traditional Chinese herbal medicine is incredible at the individuals treatment. It’s also known that foods high in brassicas (such as broccoli and cauliflower) are great at oestrogen metabolism so find a supplement such as ‘oestroclear’ to help.
5.Stay Active with Gentle Exercise:
Regular exercise can help reduce pain and improve mood in women with endometriosis. Opt for low-impact activities like walking, swimming, or gentle stretching to stay active without exacerbating symptoms. Yoga is so perfect for endo support as it opens up and creates blood flow through the pelvis which is beneficial.
6. Seek help:
Build your team to support you in your healing journey. Find a good Gp, a trusted Gynaecologist and an allied health team. This may include women’s health physio and an acupuncturist. Acupuncture is so helpful at reading pain and managing symptoms as well as calm the nervous system.
7. Connect with Community:
Sharing experiences and seeking support from others who understand can be invaluable for women living with endometriosis. Join our supportive community to connect with fellow warriors, share stories, and find solidarity in your journey.
Moving forward, together…
As we continue to raise awareness and support for endometriosis, let's empower women to prioritise their health, advocate for their needs, and embrace holistic self-care practices that nurture body, mind, and spirit. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of endometriosis warriors everywhere.
Love,
Carla & Nadia
XOX
#EndoAwareness #EmpowerWomen #NurturingWellness