Your Fertility and you

It could be something different than you think:

So I have a thought today as I continue thinking about ways in which women can improve their fertility and manage the different issues of the uterus. What came to mind is Misdiagnose. For example, you may found out that you have fibroid after trying to get pregnant with no luck. Sometimes doctors fail to check you for other issues, when they found out you have one, but if you remembered my blog, you would realized that all the time I thought that fibroid was the reason for my infertility. I had done other tests, for instance, to check if my tubes were blocked and those were ok. It was only after my surgery to remove the fibroids, I found out that I also had endometriosis. I say that to say, that it might be good to get a wholistic health check, especially if you have already taken drastic measures such as surgery and are still faced with fertility issues. In the meantime, as hard this might be, try to maintain healthy weight by eating right and exercise and reduce stress levels. My prayers are still with all of you that God will bless you with the heritage of your womb. I found out something about a natural product recently, that a lady who has endometriosis and was unable to conceive, stated that at 39 years of age, she is pregnant with her first child, which she attributed to these products. I am still researching so I would say more in a later post, but what I can say now is that it helps balance hormones, which is a factor affecting many of us who are faced with issues of the uterus. If you want to hear more, you can inbox me, but I will say more in a later post.

Source: Author

When is it time to consult a fertility specialist?

Getting pregnant may not always happen as quickly as couples would like. Especially when pregnancy fails to result after months of trying to conceive, couples may want to consult an infertility doctor who can determine if either partner has a condition hindering conception. For couples that are already aware of an existing problem such as endometriosis or prior miscarriages, infertility doctors recommend seeing an expert when more than six months pass without getting pregnant. Even in the absence of a health condition, couples where the female partner is 35 years old or older should also consult a specialist after six months of unsuccessful conception. Couples in good health and of younger age can wait an additional six months before reaching out to an infertility doctor should they experience difficulties conceiving a child.

Source :http://www.chicagoinfertilitydoctor.com/835160/2014/06/13/when-is-it-time-to-consult-a-fertility-expert.html

All you need to know about infertility

What is infertility?

Infertility means not being able to get pregnant after one year of trying (or six months if a woman is 35 or older). Women who can get pregnant but are unable to stay pregnant may also be infertile.

Pregnancy is the result of a process that has many steps. To get pregnant:

• A woman's body must release an egg from one of her ovaries (ovulation).
• The egg must go through a fallopian tube toward the uterus (womb).
• A man's sperm must join with (fertilize) the egg along the way.
• The fertilized egg must attach to the inside of the uterus (implantation).

Infertility can happen if there are problems with any of these steps.

What causes infertility in women?

Most cases of female infertility are caused by problems with ovulation. Without ovulation, there are no eggs to be fertilized. Some signs that a woman is not ovulating normally include irregular or absent menstrual periods.
Ovulation problems are often caused by polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). PCOS is a hormone imbalance problem which can interfere with normal ovulation. PCOS is the most common cause of female infertility. Primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) is another cause of ovulation problems. POI occurs when a woman's ovaries stop working normally before she is 40. POI is not the same as early menopause.
Less common causes of fertility problems in women include:

• Blocked fallopian tubes due to pelvic inflammatory disease, endometriosis, or surgery for an ectopic pregnancy
• Physical problems with the uterus
• Uterine fibroids, which are non-cancerous clumps of tissue and muscle on the walls of the uterus.

What things increase a woman's risk of infertility?

Many things can change a woman's ability to have a baby. These include:

• Age
• Smoking
• Excess alcohol use
• Stress
• Poor diet
• Athletic training
• Being overweight or underweight
• Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
• Health problems that cause hormonal changes, such as polycystic ovarian syndrome and primary ovarian insufficiency

How does age affect a woman's ability to have children?

Many women are waiting until their 30s and 40s to have children. In fact, about 20 percent of women in the United States now have their first child after age 35. So age is a growing cause of fertility problems. About one-third of couples in which the woman is over 35 have fertility problems.

Aging decreases a woman's chances of having a baby in the following ways:

• Her ovaries become less able to release eggs
• She has a smaller number of eggs left
• Her eggs are not as healthy
• She is more likely to have health conditions that can cause fertility problems
• She is more likely to have a miscarriage

How long should women try to get pregnant before calling their doctors?

Most experts suggest at least one year. Women 35 or older should see their doctors after six months of trying. A woman's chances of having a baby decrease rapidly every year after the age of 30.

Some health problems also increase the risk of infertility. So, women should talk to their doctors if they have:

• Irregular periods or no menstrual periods
• Very painful periods
• Endometriosis
• Pelvic inflammatory disease
• More than one miscarriage

It is a good idea for any woman to talk to a doctor before trying to get pregnant. Doctors can help you get your body ready for a healthy baby. They can also answer questions on fertility and give tips on conceiving.

How will doctors find out if a woman and her partner have fertility problems?

Doctors will do an infertility checkup. This involves a physical exam. The doctor will also ask for both partners' health and sexual histories. Sometimes this can find the problem. However, most of the time, the doctor will need to do more tests.
In men, doctors usually begin by testing the semen. They look at the number, shape, and movement of the sperm. Sometimes doctors also suggest testing the level of a man's hormones.
In women, the first step is to find out if she is ovulating each month. There are a few ways to do this. A woman can track her ovulation at home by:

• Writing down changes in her morning body temperature for several months
• Writing down how her cervical mucus looks for several months
• Using a home ovulation test kit (available at drug or grocery stores)

Doctors can also check ovulation with blood tests. Or they can do an ultrasound of the ovaries. If ovulation is normal, there are other fertility tests available.
Some common tests of fertility in women include:

• Hysterosalpingography (HIS-tur-oh-sal-ping-GOGH-ru-fee): This is an x-ray of the uterus and fallopian tubes. Doctors inject a special dye into the uterus through the vagina. This dye shows up in the x-ray. Doctors can then watch to see if the dye moves freely through the uterus and fallopian tubes. This can help them find physical blocks that may be causing infertility. Blocks in the system can keep the egg from moving from the fallopian tube to the uterus. A block could also keep the sperm from reaching the egg.
• Laparoscopy (lap-uh-ROS-kuh-pee): A minor surgery to see inside the abdomen. The doctor does this with a small tool with a light called a laparoscope (LAP-uh-roh-skohp). She or he makes a small cut in the lower abdomen and inserts the laparoscope. With the laparoscope, the doctor can check the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and uterus for disease and physical problems. Doctors can usually find scarring and endometriosis by laparoscopy.

Finding the cause of infertility can be a long and emotional process. It may take time to complete all the needed tests. So don't worry if the problem is not found right away.

Source: http://www.womenshealth.gov/publications/our-publications/fact-sheet/infertility.cfm

Improving fertility with endometriosis

Bee Propolis May Improve Fertility in Women with Endometriosis

Women with endometriosis who have been unable to get pregnant may have a more successful outcome by taking bee propolis, according to a preliminary study in Fertility and Sterility (2003;80:S32). This is encouraging for the millions of women with endometriosis who are suffering from infertility.

Endometriosis is a disease where cells from the uterine lining become implanted within the pelvic cavity, causing adhesions, menstrual irregularities, painful periods, premenstrual syndrome, and infertility. Other conditions associated with endometriosis include migraine headaches and mitral valve prolapse. The diagnosis can be difficult, since surgery is the only way to accurately identify endometriosis. Studies suggest that 7 to 10% of all women in the United States have endometriosis. It is the third leading cause of gynecological hospitalization and the leading cause of hysterectomy. The cause of endometriosis is unknown, although a genetic link is likely. Surgical excision of the lesions and medications that suppress the production of estrogen and progesterone may provide temporary relief, but neither offers a cure.

In the new preliminary study, 40 women with mild endometriosis and primary infertility (i.e., they had never been pregnant) who had unsuccessfully tried to get pregnant for at least two years were assigned to receive 500 mg twice a day of bee propolis or placebo for nine months. The number of pregnancies was recorded during the treatment period.

Women taking bee propolis had a significantly higher pregnancy rate than those taking the placebo. The number of women who became pregnant in the treatment and placebo groups was 60 and 20%, respectively. No adverse effects were reported by the women taking bee propolis.

Propolis is the resinous substance collected by bees from the leaves and bark of trees, especially poplar and conifer trees. Bees use propolis along with beeswax to construct their hives. Test tube studies, although preliminary, suggest that propolis may have strong anti-inflammatory effects. The pain associated with endometriosis is often due to the body’s inflammatory response to the endometrial lesions in the pelvic wall. Propolis may help decrease this inflammatory reaction, thereby reducing pain. It is unknown how propolis affects fertility.

Several studies suggest that oral propolis is useful in treating the common cold and intestinal parasites. Other studies have shown that topical propolis helps against genital herpes, cold sores, dental caries, periodontal disease, and rheumatoid arthritis.

Darin Ingels, ND, MT (ASCP), received his bachelor’s degree from Purdue University and his Doctorate of Naturopathic Medicine from Bastyr University in Kenmore, WA. Dr. Ingels is the author of The Natural Pharmacist: Lowering Cholesterol (Prima, 1999) and Natural Treatments for High Cholesterol (Prima, 2000). He currently is in private practice at New England Family Health Associates located in Southport, CT, where he specializes in environmental medicine and allergies. Dr. Ingels is a regular contributor to Healthnotes and Healthnotes Newswire.

http://www.bastyrcenter.org/content/view/623/

Supernatural Childbirth

Have you read the book supernatural childbirth? Sometime ago I was talking to a friend about our similar situation of having fibroids and she introduced me to this book. I had taken the bold step of surgery, but she is believing God for a miracle. I do not see anything wrong with that because it is our faith in God that healed us. Anyway, she related to me how many persons after reading this book, got pregnant. I knew their couldn't be power in the book, but I was eager to see what the book is all about. So last night I started reading it and from the preface I became very intrigued. I am therefore posting the information about this book here. You may decide to purchase it or read segments of it on Google books. It is called "Supernatural Childbirth: Experiencing the promises of God concerning conception and delivery" By Jackie Mize.

The book is based on faith and I believe in reading it many of us who have lost faith will increase in faith. Within this book, there are women, just like us, who are suffering from various issues of the uterus. There are women who were told that they would never have a baby and even if they get pregnant, they would miscarried. There are women who have miscarried and have to battle with the fear of losing another child. Our emotions and experiences are within this book and it can help us by reducing the stress that is often built up in our thoughts of not having a child when we realize what God have to say about barrenness and fertility.

My friend did not get around to reading the book just yet, but she knew of many who have read it within her church, who got pregnant after reading it, despite years of trying without success. There is power in the word of God, but we have to know what it says. I urge us to read and build our faith by removing ALL negative thoughts and when God has blessed you, testify, share your stories with us so that others will be blessed and their faith built. 

Pregnancy Jitters...Are you pregnant finally?

So you have been trying, some for months others for years. You know the pain of wanting but not having, the many times you took gauging your ovulation, taking your temperature, looking at your cervical mucus...You no longer enjoy sex because pregnancy is so much on your mind, you have to schedule every sexual episode. Is your partner happy? Maybe he is, maybe he is showing all the support he can, but frustrated and cannot show it or share what he is feeling because he is still thinking of you.

You are on every forum and blog page reading and reading. Don't we need that? Who is feeling what and how and when? Who have success with our conditions? Maybe you should stop read, you tell yourself, but can you? It helps us going and hoping and trusting. It will soon be our turn.

No one really knows what we go through except they have gone through it themselves. Are you pregnant this month? You don't know but like the many times before you hope and you trust. You know your body more than ever before but still it tricks you. You document every change, every new and old symptom, but still there is not enough information to understand. You feel pregnant. Your boobs are heavy and swollen down to their nipples, there is cramping, nauseousness, headaches, metallic taste in mouth, dizziness...you know all the symptoms by heart and you feel them too, but your period is due in weeks...You try to wait, but your mind would not allow you so you tested. How much of your money has been eaten up in pregnancy tests only to see the BFN...You know you should wait, but how can you when you want it so badly. And then the day come when you should really test, but to your disappoint so have your period. You cry and you cry, like all the other months you have cried. Who will find a solution and when?

Uterus issues cost us so much and people may never understand. It is not just the financial cost, but the emotional burden. The very same stress that we should not have, is caused by us as we become depressed by our situations. Today I urge us ladies, let us continue to show our support for each other and every cause involving our uterus. Let us pray one for another and let us maintain faith that we will soon be granted the desires of our hearts. Baby dust to all!!!!

Is Your Uterus Happy? Healthy Tips for a Happy Uterus: By Vivian Menjivar LMT, Dipl. ABT

This may seem like a strange question. If you suffer from PMS, menstrual cramps, menopausal or peri-menopausal symptoms, headaches or migraines with your period, varicose veins, endometriosis, bladder infections, chronic miscarriages, or infertility there is a good chance your uterus is unhappy, prolapsed or tipped.

A healthy and happy uterus is dependant on optimal circulation of blood, Qi, nervous function, lymph, as well as good nutrient and mineral balance.

7 Healthy Tips for a Happy Uterus:

1.Walking is a wonderful free exercise that gets your heart pumping, your diaphragm descending for optimal digestion and breathing and your legs moving for good circulation. Walking also boosts the good cholesterol(HDL) and lowers the bad cholesterol(LDL) in your blood, which helps to keep the heart healthy. All of these things are necessary for a healthy uterus.

2. Yoga, especially inverted poses like downward dog, and partial or full headstands help the uterus go back into the proper position allowing for good circulation.

3. Greens, such as stinging nettles, kale, spinach, collard greens, etc, are very important for both alkaline balance as well as mineral balance for optimal nervous function. Women who drink 2-4 cups of stinging nettle tea daily and eat cooked leafy greens as well as lettuce salads are getting the abundant folic acid, calcium, magnesium, and other minerals needed to create a healthy baby.

4. Green Drinks such as spirulina, chlorella, oat grass and wheat grass are wonderful sources of minerals and high in chlorophyll. Wheatgrass is also an excellent source of vitamins A, B, C, E and K, as well as calcium, chlorine, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, sulphur, cobalt and zinc. The chemical structure of the chlorophyll molecule and its similarity to the hemin molecule of hemoglobin makes wheatgrass quickly utilized by the human blood stream, giving the human body the fundamental components to eliminate disease and regenerate itself. (Hemoglobin is one of the major components of our blood) Good strong blood and the proper mineral balance are essential for a healthy fetus.

5. Seeds and Oils and good fats are necessary for optimal hormone production. Some good sources of cholesterol are Flax seed oil, fish oil, olive oil, canola oil, almonds, cashews, avocados among many other sources. Flax seed oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, especially alpha-linolenic acid, which appears to be beneficial for preventing heart disease, inflammatory bowel disease, arthritis and a variety of other health conditions. Flaxseed also contains a group of chemicals called lignans that may play a role in the prevention of cancer. Studies have shown that Mothers with low serum cholesterol levels are significantly more likely to deliver premature babies, or full-term babies with lower weight, according to the study, "Adverse Birth Outcomes Among Mothers With Low Serum Cholesterol." Researchers studied 118 women with low total cholesterol (less than the 10th percentile) and 940 women with mid-range cholesterol levels.

6. Castor Oil is derived from the bean of the Ricinus communis or Palma Christi plant (Palm of Christ). The Palma Christi has been used for therapeutically for centuries in the folk medicine of ancient India, China, Persia, Africa, Greece, Rome, and the Americas. It has large, beautiful palmate leaves hence the name, Palma Christi.

Used externally, castor oil has been used to treat a variety of health conditions such asarthritis, liver and intestinal disorders, tumors, cysts, and skin conditions. Taken internally, castor oil is a strong cathartic and is not recommended as there are ways to relieve constipation that are not as harsh.

Some of the numerous uses of castor oil include the treatment of breast cysts, fibroids, and ovarian cysts, congestion of abdominal organs, skin conditions, small benign cysts, and adhesions from surgery. Wherever there is congestion, decreased blood flow and need for healing, castor oil can be an effective treatment option.

Castor oil has a unique chemical profile rich in ricinoleic acid which is known to exist in nature only in castor oil. Double blind studies conducted by the Association for Research and Enlightenment, Inc. demonstrated an increase in lymphocyte production and the level of activity of T-cell lymphocytes in the group that used castor oil packs. T-cell lymphocytes originate from bone marrow and the thymus gland, identify and kill invaders such as virus, bacteria, and fungi.

In addition to strengthening the immune system, castor oil appears to have a balancing effect on the autonomic nervous system, increasing liver activity and improving digestion.

7. Maya Abdominal Massage is a non invasive external massage of the abdomen that increases circulation around the reproductive organs allowing for the proper balance of hormones, minerals for optimal nervous function, ad good circulation of lymph. Many women have a laundry list of physical and emotional symptoms that can be addressed and prevented with these simple, noninvasive massage techniques. When reproductive organs shift, they can constrict the normal flow of blood and lymph, and disrupting nerve connections. Just a few extra ounces sitting on blood and lymph vessels can cause havoc throughout the different systems in the body. By shifting the uterus back into place, homeostasis, or the natural balance of the body, is restored in the pelvic area and the surrounding organs. Toxins are flushed and nutrients that help to tone tissue and balance hormones are restored to normal order. This is essential for healthy pregnancy, labor, and delivery.

Chinese Angelica Angelica sinensis syn. A. polymorpha

COMMON NAMES

• Chinese Angelica
• Dang Gui
• Dong Quai
• Tang Kuei

The herbal product made from the Chinese angelica, also commonly called the dong quai, the dang gui, or the tang kuei is derived from the root of the Chinese herb - the Angelica polymorpha Maxim - botanicalname. The variety of the species is sinensis Oliv. The herb is also known as A. sinensis (Oliv.), and it is a member of the plant family Apiaceae common in and native to China. The herbal remedies and herbal medication prepared from this herb has a mildly laxative effect on people, while, it is used primarily as a uterine tonic in women, it is also used as an antispasmodic herbal agent, and it is also used for its alterative-or blood purifying-effects, which are said to be very beneficial to affected patients.

This herbal remedy is very often suggested to patients by many modern herbalists to be used in the treatment of the majority of gynecological ailments and disorders, these conditions can include persistentmenstrual cramps, the presence of some irregularity or a retarded menstrual flow, and to treat physical weakness during the menstrual period of affected women. While the use of the dong quai is not suggested in pregnant women, the remedy is also said provide physical relief from the many symptoms which occur during the process ofmenopause in women. The remedy is also known to be useful in the treatment of disorders such as hypertension and additionally, it is said to possess very effective antispasmodic properties in individuals afflicted by muscular spasms. The herb is also used to induce blood purification and to provide nourishment, for which it has a great reputation-and lastly, it has also been used in the treatment of constipation in individuals affected by this disorder.

Dong quai has been put under chemical investigation, and the herb is now known to possess at least seven different coumarin derivatives, these include the chemical compound oxypeucedanin, the compound osthole, the compound imperatorin, the compound psoralen, and bergapten-all of these compounds were present in the dong quai samples. The majority of chemical coumarins or its derivatives have known actions as vasodilators and antispasmodics in the human body, at the same time, a few of the others, such as the compound osthole, induce a stimulating effect on the central nervous system in the human body. The very presence of these chemical compounds therefore, accounts for at least some of the purported activities ascribed to dong quai.

Utilizing large and heavy doses of these coumarins often have harmful effects on the body, and it is known that some of the furo-coumarins, like the compound psoralen and the compound bergapten, may induce dermatitis in individuals exposed to them, due to the process of photosensitization which occurs because of their presence in the body. Unnecessary exposure of the human body to these compounds is undesirable according to studies done in the year 1981, during the course of which the researchers came to the conclusion that these so-called psoralens present very significant and sufficient risks to humans. Recommendation of very large amounts of the furo-coumarin-containing medications such as the dong quai is not made to treat patients for this very reason. At the same time, the absence of substantial clinical evidence in the Western scientific literature which may support the effectiveness of dong quai in the treatment of various conditions for which it is indeed suggested, also limits the use of this herbal remedy. For example, in the only reported U.S. based study on the potential effects of the dong quai on alleviating postmenopausal symptoms-including physical symptoms such as night sweats and hot flashes-found the herbal remedy equal in effectiveness to a placebo given to the test subjects. However, in traditional Chinese medicine, the dong quai remains as one of the most widely suggested medications and consequently, the remedy is far more popular in usage to other well known herbs such as the ginseng-which is quite well known in the western world. Various combinations of the dong quai with other herbs is the general prescribed avenue for patients and the herb is almost never used alone in most herbal medical systems. Further clinical studies are required on the potential benefits of this herb, before full acceptance in Western societies can be realized, and many controlled clinical studies still have to follow with regard to this herb. The use of this herb as a therapeutic agent has little basis and till such times.

PARTS USED

Rhizome, root, leaves, stalks, seeds.

USES

While it is also used in the treatment of disorders related to men, the remedies made from the Chinese angelica is considered to be the best Chinese tonic herb for women-with respect to such female disorders, the herb is very highly valued as a blood tonic in the Eastern world. Some of the positive effects associated with the herbal remedies made from the Chinese angelica include the regulation of hormones, the regulation and control of the menstruation, the herbal remedy is also supposed to be able to bring about recovery from delayed or suppressed menstrual periods, it is also said to relieve the symptoms associated with menstrual cramps, and the herbal remedy can also be used during the period of menopause to treat various symptoms which may affect the woman. The Chinese angelica herb can be eaten raw or taken in the form of a herbal tincture, the remedy also aids in relaxing the strained muscles in the uterus, and when it is used with water it can result in bringing about better toning in the uterine muscles and in bringing about stimulation to the uterine contractions, the herbal remedy can also lead to an increase in the circulation of blood in the uterine area and aids in relieving congestion which occurs along the pelvic region of the woman. Ideally, this remedy must not be taken by women who are under the term of pregnancy as it can cause potential side effects in the body.

The warming effects and the stimulating or antispasmodic abilities of the dang gui are best brought forth when the herb is cooked before consumption. Some of the other beneficial physical effects of the dang gui herb include helping improve the circulation in the body, the herbal remedy also speeds up tissue repair, it effectively lowers blood pressure, and can slow the pulse down, the herbal remedy can also aid in preventing disorders like atherosclerosis and blood clots from developing in the body and its ability to relax the cardiac muscles of the heart is also useful in treating certain disorders. The sedative actions of the Chinese angelica are also taken advantage off in various treatment methodologies. The nourishing effects of the Chinese angelica, it high content of major vitamins, and its actions and aid in the absorption and utilization of the vitamin E from the diet are other beneficial properties. Remedies made from the Chinese angelica are also utilized to control and treat disorders such as anemia and theangina which affects the heart.

In addition, the herbal dang gui remedy has an ability to stabilize the blood sugar levels in patients, while enhancing the functioning of the immune system at the same time. The bactericidal, the antiviral and the antifungal properties of the Chinese angelica are also useful in counteracting a whole range of other infections which can affect a person, these include common colds and flu which strike patients on a regular basis. The blood purification properties of the Chinese angelica is considered to be a very valuable ability of the herb and the remedy also has a moistening effect useful in relieving the constipation affecting the patients. The rejuvenating properties of the Chinese angelica are another useful property of the herb and the herb is also helpful in relieving the symptoms of arthritis and rheumatic pain in the affected individual. The other properties of the tonic form of the Chinese angelica is useful during convalescence, and its use as a herbal remedy is suggested to help speed the recovery process and also to increase the energy of a woman following the rigors of childbirth and labor.

The herbal remedies made from the Chinese angelica are very famous in China as a herbal tonic, this herbal tonic is taken to treat many "deficient blood" conditions, these can include anemia, and the remedy is also used to treat the symptoms of anemia occurring because of loss of blood- resulting in a very pale complexion, in palpitations, and those resulting in a lowered vitality in the body.

The remedy derived from Chinese angelica causes a "warming" effect and this herb is often known as a “warming” herb, it thus brings about an improvement in the circulation to the abdominal area, and to the areas of the body such as the hands and the feet of the affected individual. The consumption of the herbal remedy also results in strengthening of the digestive system and the process of digestion at the same time, the herbal remedy is also very useful in the effective treatment of all abscesses and boilswhich may affect an individual.

Source: http://www.herbs2000.com/herbs/herbs_angelica_chinese.htm

Natural Remedies for Endometriosis By Cathy Wong, About.com Guide Updated July 23, 2007

Signs and Symptoms of Endometriosis

• Painful periods. Pelvic pain and cramping during menstruation. It may begin before and continue for several days after the onset of your monthly period. The pain can also occur in the lower abdomen or low back. It has even been known to cause shooting nerve pain in the legs, called sciatica.
• Sharp, deep pain during ovulation, sexual intercourse, bowel movements, and/or urination
• Heavy menstrual periods or bleeding in between periods
• Fatigue
• Indigestion, diarrhea, constipation, and nausea
• Infertility. Endometriosis can cause adhesions that trap the egg.

Natural Treatments for Endometriosis

If you are experiencing painful periods or pelvic pain, it's important to see your doctor to get a proper diagnosis. Here are eight natural treatments that are used for endometriosis.

1) Reduce Chemical Intake

Although earlier studies in women were conflicting, there is increasing evidence that chronic exposure to the environmental chemicals dioxins and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) is associated with an increased prevalence and severity of endometriosis.

One way to reduce intake of these chemicals is to cut back on animal fat, especially high-fat dairy, red meat, and fish. Dioxin and PCBs both accumulate in animal fat, and it is our main route of exposure.

Interestingly, studies on diet and endometriosis also support this link. For example, an Italian study examined data from 504 women with endometriosis and found an increased risk with a high intake of red meat and ham. Fresh fruit and vegetables were associated with a reduction in risk. 

2) Vegetables and Flaxseeds

There is evidence that a group of plant chemicals called flavones can inhibit aromatase, the enzyme that converts androgens to estrogens. Good food sources of flavones are celery and parsley.

Broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, kale, Brussels sprouts, and bok choy, contain compounds called indoles, which appear to improve estrogen metabolism.

Flaxseeds are high in lignans and fiber, which have been found to be beneficial for estrogen-related conditions.

3) Progesterone Cream

Alternative practitioners sometimes recommend progesterone cream. Progesterone is thought to slow the growth of abnormal endometrial tissue. Although it's not considered a cure, it may improve symptoms such as pain during menstrual periods and pelvic pain. There haven't been any studies on progesterone cream for endometriosis, so we don't know for certain about it's effectiveness or safety.

Progesterone cream is derived from either soy or Mexican wild yam. A molecule called diosgenin is extracted in a lab and converted to a molecule that's exactly like human progesterone and added to back to the cream. Some companies sell wild yam cream, but unless it has been converted in a lab it is useless, because the body can't convert wild yam to progesterone on its own.

Natural progesterone cream is applied to the wrists, inner arms, inner thighs, or upper chest at a dose and schedule that should be recommended by a professional. It's important to be supervised and to have progesterone levels monitored on lab tests, because too much progesterone can cause such side effects as mood changes, depression, water retention, weight gain, and absent or abnormal menstrual bleeding.

Natural progesterone cream is available from a compounding pharmacy (the website www.iacprx.org has listings) or at regular drug stores.

4) Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids are found in fish such as salmon, mackerel, sardines, and anchovies. They are also available in fish oil capsules, which may be the preferable form because good brands contain minimal amounts of PCBs and dioxins.

Several studies have found that omega-3 fatty acids may be beneficial for people with endometriosis. For example, an animal study by the University of Western Ontario found that fish oil containing two specific compounds, EPA and DHA, can relieve pain by decreasing levels of an inflammatory chemical called prostaglandin E2. Researchers also found that fish oil could slow the growth of endometrial tissue.

After your Myomectomy - helping you recover

I found this interesting article, wished I had found it sooner but I guess it is still not to late. I hope it help those of you who had just done your myomectomy and need some extra help. After an operation, bed rest and inactivity can increase your risk of chest infection and blood clots in your legs. These can be avoided if you follow the instructions below.

Immediately after your operation

To reduce risks of complications, it is important that you:

Take big deep breaths Move your feet and legs Get moving as soon as possible.

Take big deep breaths

Once you are awake, take five big deep breaths and hold them in for three seconds. Repeat this every hour. If you feel something in your throat or you feel a bit chesty, firmly support your tummy with your hands or a pillow and do a strong outward huff. If the huff doesn’t help, try a gentle cough.

Move your feet and legs

Move your feet backwards and forwards and in circles. Repeat this at least 20 times every hour.

Getting moving as soon as possible

The most effective way to help your recovery and avoid complications is by sitting out of bed and walking starting on the day after your operation. The day after your surgery, you should aim to sit out of bed twice and walk about 10 metres with your nurse. Each day after you will be able to sit out of bed for longer and walk further and further. Pain from your wound can make moving difficult. Make sure that you let your nurse know how your pain is going so your pain can be managed to allow you to get moving.

Getting in and out of bed

The most comfortable way to get in and out of bed is to log roll. You do this by:

bending both your knees and rolling onto your side, keeping your shoulders in line with your hips as you roll

slide your feet over the side of the bed and push yourself up using both of your hands

to get back into bed do the same thing in reverse.

If you feel discomfort due to abdominal wind or bloating, gently arch and flatten your back against the bed as comfort allows.

At home

To further maximise your recovery, it is important that you:

take care of yourself during the first six weeks after your operation maintain healthy bladder and bowel habits commence pelvic floor and deep abdominal muscle exercises.

Take care of yourself

Make sure you have good posture. Don’t bend over when you are walking around. Stand tall, tuck your bottom in and keep your shoulders back.

Avoid lifting, pushing and pulling tasks and:

limit all activities that require any effort or exertion only do light household duties tighten your deep abdominal and pelvic floor muscles before doing anything that requires even minimal effort always lift correctly – tuck your tummy in, bend at you knees and keep your back straight.

Rest (lying down) for at least half an hour (30 minutes) each day.

Walk every day.

Start gently and gradually increase your walking speed and distance each day. Incorporate a 30 minute walk into your permanent lifestyle to improve your general health and well-being. Avoid other strenuous and high impact exercises during this time (such as weights, sit-ups, running etc).

Avoid driving.

You are not allowed to drive for the first few weeks after your operation for safety reasons. Insurance policies will generally not cover you for six weeks following surgery if you are involved in an accident. Check with your doctor to find out when you can return to driving.

Avoid smoking.

Maintain healthy bladder and bowel habits

Healthy bladder habits

Drink between one and a half and two litres of fluid a day. Water is preferable to tea and coffee. Avoid excessive amounts of caffeine or alcohol. Avoid just-in-case visits to the toilet; go only when you need to go. Avoid straining to pass urine and allow your bladder to fully empty.

Healthy bowel habits

Avoid constipation and straining.

Eat plenty of high fibre foods (eg. fruit, vegetables). Drink one and a half to two litres of fluid (preferably water) a day. Get plenty of exercise. On the toilet, sit leaning forward and allow your tummy to bulge and relax. Use a foot stool or lift your heels off the floor so that your knees are above your hips. Don’t hold your breath or strain.

Don’t ignore the urge to use your bowels. Take your time when emptying your bowels.

Pelvic floor and deep abdominal muscle exercises

Pelvic floor and abdominal muscle exercises can be started the day after your operation. Do each of the following exercises at least three times a day. An exercise diary can help you keep track of your exercises and may keep you motivated.

Pelvic floor exercises

Strong pelvic floor muscles

Prevent leakage from your bladder or bowel by keeping the urethra and anus tightly closed. Support pelvic organs when there is downward pressure, during coughing, sneezing, lifting, pushing, pulling activities.

All women should exercise their pelvic floor muscles every day. This is especially important after pelvic surgery.

How to do pelvic floor exercises

Lie on your back or sit tall in a chair so you can feel the seat beneath your pelvic floor. Keep your abdominal, buttock and thigh muscles relaxed and continue to breathe normally.

Exercise 1

‘SQUEEZE & LIFT’ your pelvic floor muscles around your urethra, vagina & anus. Hold for as long as you can building up to 8-10 seconds. Repeat 10 times or until the muscle is tired. Repeat this at least 3 times each day.

Exercise 2

Quickly and strongly ‘SQUEEZE & LIFT’ your pelvic floor muscles. Hold for 1 second then relax. Repeat up to 20 times or until the muscle is tired. Repeat this at least 3 times each day.

As your pelvic floor muscles get stronger, make these exercises more challenging by performing them standing, and then during activities such as lifting and walking.

Remember: Brace your pelvic floor muscles whenever you need to cough, sneeze, laugh or perform effortful tasks to provide extra support during these occasions.

Deep abdominal muscle exercise

Strong deep abdominal muscles maintain good posture and support your back and pelvis. Following abdominal surgery, your tummy muscles are weakened and will need to be re-strengthened.

Lie on your back with knees bent or kneel on your hands and knees.

Breathe in and out; tighten your deep abdominal muscles by gently pulling your lower tummy in toward your spine. Continue breathing normally while keeping your lower tummy tight. Keep your upper abdominal muscles and ribs relaxed. Hold for 3-5 seconds, as you improve hold for up to 60 seconds. Repeat this up to 10 times in a row. Repeat this at least 3 times each day. Once you get the hang of it, this exercise can be done while standing and walking.

Remember: Tighten your deep abdominal muscles during all effortful tasks such as lifting to provide extra support. These exercises are important, make them a part of your daily routine to keep your abdominal muscles strong and supportive for the rest of your life. It is important that you maintain an active lifestyle after your recovery from your operation as physical activity improves your general health and wellbeing. source: http://www.thewomens.org.au/Afteryouroperationhelpingyourecover