by Dr. Whitney West
If you’ve ever felt like something just isn’t right with your periods—whether it’s pain that knocks you off your feet, heavy bleeding, or unexplained digestive issues—you’re not alone. These could be signs of endometriosis, a condition that affects millions of women but often goes undiagnosed or misunderstood.
In this article, we break down what endometriosis really is, how it can impact your life, and the range of medical and holistic ways to find relief.
What Is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis happens when tissue similar to the lining inside the uterus begins growing outside of it. These tissue patches—called implants—can show up on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, bladder, intestines, and other pelvic organs.
Each month, these implants respond to hormonal changes and may cause pain, inflammation, and scar tissue because they have no way to exit the body.
Common Symptoms
Everyone’s experience is different, but typical symptoms include:
- Pelvic cramps and pain (especially during periods)
- Painful sex
- Heavy or irregular periods
- Pain with bowel movements or urination
- Bloating, nausea, fatigue, and other GI issues
- Difficulty getting pregnant
How Is It Diagnosed?
Diagnosing endometriosis can be tricky. Many women spend years searching for answers.
Typical tools include:
- Pelvic exam
- Ultrasound or MRI imaging
- Laparoscopy (a minimally invasive procedure to confirm and sometimes treat the condition)
How It Affects Daily Life
Endometriosis doesn’t just bring physical symptoms. It can also:
- Cause chronic pain that limits work, relationships, or self-care
- Interfere with fertility
- Lead to ovarian cysts (endometriomas are cysts with blood in them, chocolate cysts)
- Create internal scarring and adhesions which then can cause pain
- Contribute to depression, anxiety, and emotional burnout because of the pain and effect on quality of life
Ways to Manage Endometriosis
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution, but there are ways to feel better.
Medical Options
- Over-the-counter pain relievers
- Hormonal therapies to suppress menstrual cycles
- Surgery to remove implants or, in extreme cases, the uterus
- IVF or assisted fertility support
Lifestyle & Holistic Support (at Whitney West MD PC)
We believe in whole-person care. Complementary approaches can play a big role in managing symptoms:
Mind-Body Practices
- Gentle yoga or Pilates
- Meditation and breathwork
Natural & Nutritional Therapies
- Acupuncture for pain relief and energy balance
- Herbal supports (turmeric, ginger, evening primrose oil)
- Anti-inflammatory eating (greens, berries, omega-3s)
- Key supplements (magnesium, omega-3s, B vitamins)
Final Word
Endometriosis is a real, complex condition—but relief is possible. With compassionate care and both traditional medical and integrative support, you can take back control of your health.
You are not alone. Let’s get you feeling better.
–Dr Whitney
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