Naturally Reduce Estrogen to Treat Endometriosis & Improve Fertility

Endometriosis affects approximately 1 in 10 women during their reproductive years. This represents more than 6 ½ million women in the United States, and almost 176 million women worldwide.

In addition to being a painful and sometimes debilitating condition, endometriosis is also associated with an increased risk of difficulty becoming pregnant. Between 30% and 50% of women with endometriosis may experience infertility.

While there is no known cure for endometriosis, there is a clear hormonal component to the disease. And, fortunately, there are a number of treatments and natural steps women can take to ease symptoms, as well as increase the chances of successfully conceiving a child.

What Is Endometriosis?

Endometriosis is a disease in which tissue that is supposed to be inside the woman’s uterus grows outside of the uterus. This endometrial tissue breaks down and bleeds with each menstrual cycle – but it has no way to exit the body and becomes trapped. Cysts, scar tissue and adhesions can develop which cause pain, heavy periods, or possibly infertility.

Endometriosis is driven by estrogen, one of a woman’s two main sex hormones. A type of estrogen called estradiol regulates how uterine tissue grows. When a woman’s levels of estrogen / estradiol is out of balance with the other sex hormone progesterone, endometriosis can develop.

Symptoms of Endometriosis Hormone Imbalance

If a woman’s estrogen and progesterone are out of balance, symptoms may include:

• Heavy or light periods
• Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)
• Weight gain, especially around the waist, hips, and thighs
• Noncancerous lumps in the breasts
• Fibroids
• Fatigue / Low Energy
• Low sex drive
• Depression and/or Anxiety

Austin, TX fertility expert Doctor Ruthie Harper can test a woman’s hormone levels with blood and/or urine tests to see if high levels of estrogen are behind the symptoms of endometriosis.

Naturally Balancing Hormones to Treat Endometriosis & Improve Fertility

Some women and their physicians choose to treat endometriosis with hormone therapy, such as birth control pills, patches, or rings. And in extreme cases, patients may undergo surgery to remove endometrial tissue growths.

However, drugs or surgery are NOT a woman’s only options to help alleviate endometriosis. Some specific changes to a woman’s diet and lifestyle can help restore healthy estrogen levels to manage endometriosis symptoms.

7 Natural Steps to Reduce Estrogen, Treat Endometriosis & Improve Fertility

#1. Eat a Plant Based Diet

The food a woman consumes has a big impact on her estrogen production. Women who are vegetarians have 15%-20% lower estrogen levels than women who do not follow a meatless diet. Even if a woman is unable to give up meat entirely, she should make fresh fruits and vegetables the bulk of her diet. Get up to five servings of veggies and two servings of fresh fruit each day.

#2. Increase Fiber Intake

Food high in fiber increases how much estrogen a woman shed eliminates. High-fiber diets that include fresh produce and whole grains, can help a woman retain less estrogen and achieve better hormone balance.

#3. Eat More Omega-3s

Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish or flaxseed, can help lower inflammation in the body.

#4. Drink Green Tea

Green tea is rich in compounds called ‘polyphenols’ that are linked to lower estradiol levels. While coffee, tea, or other caffeinated beverages can increase endometriosis pain. Replace these beverages with green tea to reduce pain and keep estrogen levels in check.

#5. Eat More Soy Based Foods

Soy foods contain nutrients called isoflavones which can help women attain a better hormone balance and reduce their endometriosis risk. Soy foods include tofu, tempeh, miso, edamame, and soy nuts.

Soy is also rich in ‘phytoestrogens’ which may lower your risk of some breast cancers but increase the risk of other types. So always talk with your doctor about increasing the amount of soy foods in your diet.

#6. Maintain a Healthy Weight

Being overweight promotes insulin resistance, which in turn increases estrogen levels and triggers inflammation. We know it’s hard to lose weight, but if you are overweight and suffering from endometriosis, getting to a healthy weight may help improve fertility.

#7. Manage Stress

Emotional stress can have a huge impact on a woman’s hormone balance. When a person is stressed, the body produce more cortisol, known as the stress hormone. Additionally, the body’s levels of progesterone drop, leaving them with too much estrogen.

Finding ways to manage stress – meditation, exercise, prayer, hobbies, massage, etc. – can help restore a healthy hormone balance and improve endometriosis.

Fertility Doctor | Austin, TX

If you wish to conceive, and you believe you may be experiencing symptoms of endometriosis, it is essential to discuss your condition with a fertility specialist. Medical management as well as natural, lifestyle adjustments can help rebalance hormones, reduce endometriosis and improve fertility.

Dr. Ruthie Harper can diagnose and treat the underlying conditions that are interfering with your fertility to help you improve your chances of getting pregnant naturally – without expensive or artificial intervention treatments. If you live in the greater Austin area, schedule an appointment today and take the first step toward realizing your dream of growing your family.

Fertility Doctor | Austin, TX: (512) 343-9355