Understanding Endometriosis, Your Hormones & What Your Body Needs
Understand what's really going on beneath the surface, especially the links between Endometriosis, gut health, inflammation, chronic stress, and more.
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01
What is endometriosis?
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Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory condition (meaning the body stays in a long-term state of internal inflammation that can cause damage over time).
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Tissue similar to the lining of your uterus (endometrial lining) in places outside your uterus- like on your ovaries, fallopian tubes, bladder, bowel, other pelvic organs, or in rare cases, elsewhere in the body. This tissue is called 'endometrial-like tissue' or 'endometriosis lesions' (areas of endometriosis tissue growth).
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This tissue reacts to your hormones, especially estrogen, just like your endometrial lining does during your menstrual cycle. But unlike the uterine lining, which sheds and leaves your body during your period, this misplaced tissue has no way to exit your body. It therefore builds up, causing pain, inflammation, scar tissue (thickened tissue that forms as the body heals from injury or inflammation), adhesions (scar tissue that causes organs or tissues to stick together), and sometimes fertility issues.
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Endo isn’t just a “period problem”- it can affect many parts of your body, including your digestion, immune system, and fertility.
02
What causes endometriosis?
The exact cause isn't fully known, but contributing factors include immune dysfunction, hormonal imbalance, chronic inflammation, gut health issues, and even exposure to environmental toxins.
03
What are the common symptoms of endometriosis?
Symptoms vary, but often include severe period pain, pelvic pain, pain during sex, fatigue, bloating, digestive issues, painful bowel movements, painful urination, and fertility challenges (I had nearly all of these).
These symptoms are driven by inflammation, estrogen dominance, and sometimes nervous system dysregulation.
04
What is the cure for endometriosis?
There is no official “cure” for endometriosis yet, but symptoms can be significantly reduced or managed naturally. Supporting the body through anti-inflammatory nutrition, nervous system regulation, liver detoxification, and stress reduction can improve quality of life and hormone balance.
05
How is endometriosis diagnosed?
If you think you may have endo, ask your doctor for:
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A referral to a gynaecologist, ideally one who specialises in endometriosis
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Imaging- I had both a transvaginal ultrasound and a pelvic MRI scan
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A blood test- endometriosis doesn’t have a reliable blood test for diagnosis, but some markers may give helpful clues
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I did a CA-125 test. CA-125 is a protein that is often higher in women with endometriosis (especially later stages), ovarian cysts, or ovarian cancer. It’s not specific, but some doctors use it as a clue when looking for endo or tracking symptoms over time
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inflammatory markers like CRP or ESR. While not diagnostic, high levels may support the presence of chronic inflammation, which is common in endo
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a vitamin D test and thyroid function test (TFT). This checks TSH, free T4, and sometimes free T3. While these aren't diagnostic, low or abnormal levels can suggest underlying hormonal or autoimmune imbalances, which often overlap with endometriosis.
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The only way to definitively confirm endometriosis is still through laparoscopy, unfortunately (a surgical procedure where a small camera is inserted into the abdomen). The most effective treatment during surgery is excision (cutting out endo tissue), not ablation (burning it tissue with a laser), as ablation can leave tissue behind and lead to symptoms returning.
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In the meantime, it's worth tracking your symptoms, especially pain, digestion, and cycle patterns.
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And remember- you don’t need to wait for a formal diagnosis to begin supporting your body. Start with anti-inflammatory nutrition, gut and liver support, and nervous system regulation to begin reducing symptoms and supporting hormone balance.
06
Is endometriosis caused by estrogen dominance?
Endometriosis lesions are much more sensitive to estrogen stimulation than normal uterine tissue because they contain a higher number of estrogen receptors.
This heightened sensitivity- coupled with estrogen dominance (when estrogen is too high relative to progesterone)- doesn't directly cause endo, but it can worsen symptoms and contribute to increased inflammation, the growth of endometriosis lesions (areas of endometriosis tissue growth), and more pain.
To bring hormones back into balance, it’s important to support body's ability to process and clear excess estrogen, mainly through the gut and liver.
This can be supported through nutrition, lifestyle changes, and natural practices that gently help hormone balance.
07
How does endometriosis affect digestion and gut health?
Many women with endometriosis experience IBS-like symptoms, bloating, or constipation (my constipation & bloating were crazy!). This is often due to inflammation, adhesions, and gut dysbiosis (imbalanced bacteria). Supporting gut health through probiotics, fibre, anti-inflammatory foods, and reducing trigger foods can ease symptoms.
08
Is endometriosis linked to the nervous system?
Chronic pain can keep the body stuck in fight or flight, overactivating the nervous system and increasing pain sensitivity and inflammation. Regulating the nervous system through calming practices helps reduce symptoms and improve overall hormone balance.
09
What foods should I eat and avoid with endometriosis?
A nutrient-rich, anti-inflammatory diet can help reduce pain, balance hormones, and support gut and immune health.
Eat more:
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Leafy greens, colourful veg, berries & omega-3 fats
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Gluten-free grains, cruciferous veg, and lean protein
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Anti-inflammatory herbs like turmeric and ginger
Reduce or avoid:
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Processed foods, refined sugar, and dairy (if sensitive)
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Gluten (which may trigger inflammation, bloating or gut issues in some)
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Red/processed meat, alcohol, and excess caffeine
Everyone’s body is different, so focus on whole, supportive foods and track what works for you.
10
Can stress make endometriosis worse?
Chronic stress worsens inflammation, pain perception, and hormone imbalance. It can also dysregulate the HPA axis (your stress-hormone feedback loop).
Reducing stress through mind-body practices, rest, and nervous system support is essential for long-term relief.
11
How does inflammation affect endometriosis?
Inflammation is central to endometriosis. It triggers pain, worsens immune dysfunction, and fuels the growth of endometriosis tissues.
You can reduce inflammation through nutrition, omega-3s, curcumin, magnesium, gut support, and stress regulation.
12
Are toxins and endocrine disruptors linked to endometriosis?
Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), found in plastics, some beauty products, and cleaning supplies, can mimic estrogen and worsen hormonal imbalance. Reducing toxin exposure and supporting liver detox can ease symptoms and improve hormone balance.
13
How does endometriosis impact fertility?
Endometriosis can affect ovulation, egg quality, and cause inflammation in the reproductive organs, making conception harder.
However, many women with endo conceive naturally, especially when they reduce inflammation, balance hormones, and support their nervous system and gut.
14
What role does the liver play in endometriosis?
Your body clears excess estrogen through the liver and gut. If the liver is overworked or sluggish, estrogen may not be cleared properly, leading to a build-up that worsens symptoms.
Support your liver (and gut health) with leafy greens, cruciferous veg, lemon water, castor oil packs, and gentle detox practices.
15
Does blood sugar and insulin resistance affect endometriosis?
Yes. Blood sugar instability and insulin resistance can worsen inflammation and contribute to hormonal imbalance.
Eating balanced meals with protein, healthy fats, and fibre, and reducing refined carbs can help stabilise hormones and reduce pain.
16
Can oxidative stress worsen endometriosis?
Oxidative stress causes cell damage and worsens inflammation, which can aggravate endo symptoms and affect fertility.
You can lower oxidative stress by eating antioxidant-rich foods (like berries, greens, and herbs) and getting nutrients like vitamin C, zinc, and selenium.
17
Is endometriosis an autoimmune disease or linked to autoimmune conditions?
Endometriosis is not currently recognised as an autoimmune disease, but it behaves in very similar ways.
Both involve chronic inflammation and the immune system acting strangely- such as attacking tissue that’s in the wrong place (i.e. endometriosis tissue in the case of endo).
Research also shows that women with endometriosis are at a higher risk of developing autoimmune conditions like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and thyroid autoimmune disorders* (especially Hashimoto's). This suggests a shared immune system imbalance behind these conditions.
That's why supporting your immune system, gut health, and reducing inflammation can be powerful tools in managing endometriosis and preventing related issues.
*https://www.ox.ac.uk/news/2025-04-28-new-research-reveals-shared-genetic-link-between-endometriosis-and-immune-conditions and https://academic.oup.com/humrep/article-abstract/17/10/2715/607769?redirectedFrom=fulltext
18
Does endometriosis affect Black women and women of color differently?
Women of color, especially Black women, are often underdiagnosed (meaning symptoms are overlooked or not taken seriously, so we leave without a proper diagnosis) or misdiagnosed with other conditions.
We may also experience more severe symptoms and higher rates of fibroids, insulin resistance, and autoimmune disorders that overlap with endometriosis. Barriers like systemic bias and lack of tailored care contribute to these challenges.
Holistic support focusing on anti-inflammatory nutrition, stress reduction, nervous system regulation, and reducing exposure to hormone disruptors (like certain hair and beauty products) is especially important.
19
What supplements can help with endometriosis?
Certain natural supplements can help reduce symptoms, such as omega-3s (anti-inflammatory), magnesium (muscle relaxant), zinc, vitamin D, curcumin, and adaptogens like ashwagandha.
Always consult a practitioner for personalised support.
20
Does endometriosis get worse during pregnancy?
Pregnancy can temporarily relieve endometriosis symptoms for some women because of increased progesterone levels, which may help reduce inflammation and slow the growth of endometrial-like tissue.
However, others may still experience symptoms, especially if there’s scar tissue or deep lesions present.
While symptom relief is possible, pregnancy is not a cure for endometriosis. Many women notice symptoms return after giving birth or once hormone levels shift again.
21
Does endometriosis get worse during perimenopause?
Yes, for some women, perimenopause can temporarily worsen endometriosis symptoms due to fluctuating estrogen levels.
Supporting your body with anti-inflammatory foods, stress reduction, liver and gut health, and nervous system regulation can help manage symptoms naturally as you move through this transition.
22
Does endometriosis go away after menopause?
Endometriosis often improves after menopause because estrogen levels drop, which can reduce pain and slow the growth of endometriosis lesions.
However, symptoms may continue if you have scar tissue, deep lesions, lingering inflammation, immune dysfunction, or are using hormone replacement therapy (HRT) that contains estrogen.
23
I think I have endometriosis – what should I do first?
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See question 5 number above.
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Join the Hormone Sisterhood for guidance, support from other women, and practical tools to help you understand your body and put this information into action.
Reminder: We are not broken. Our bodies are not working against us. With the right knowledge and support, we can move from struggling to managing our symptoms with confidence and empowerment.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended to replace medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your medical or fertility care.
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