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MoonDragon's ObGyn Information
OVARIAN TUMOR, BENIGN
(Ovarian Growth)
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome




BASIC INFORMATION


"For Informational Use Only"
For more detailed information contact your health care provider
about options that may be available for your specific situation.


DESCRIPTION

ovarian anatomy
The ovaries are a pair of organs in the female reproductive system. They are located in the pelvis, one on each side of the uterus, which is the hollow, pear-shaped organ where a baby grows. Each ovary is about the size and shape of an almond. The ovaries produce eggs and female hormones. Hormones are chemicals that control the way certain cells or organs function.

Every month, during the menstrual cycle, an egg is released from one ovary in a process called ovulation. The egg travels from the ovary through the fallopian tube to the uterus. The ovaries are also the main source of the female hormones estrogen and progesterone. These hormones influence the development of a woman's breasts, body shape, and body hair. They also regulate the menstrual cycle and pregnancy.

A cyst is a fluid-filled sac, and can be located anywhere in the body. On the ovary, different types of cysts can form and can contain fluid or semi-solid material. The most common type of ovarian cyst is called a functional cyst, which often forms during the normal menstrual cycle. Each month, a woman's ovaries grow tiny cysts that hold the eggs. When an egg is mature, the sac breaks open to release the egg, so it can travel through the fallopian tube for fertilization. Then the sac dissolves. In one type of functional cyst, called a follicular cyst, the sac doesn't break open to release the egg and may continue to grow. This type of cyst usually disappears within one to three months. A corpus luteum cyst, another type of functional cyst, forms if the sac doesn't dissolve. Instead, the sac seals off after the egg is released. Fluid then builds up inside of it. This type of cyst usually goes away on its own after a few weeks. However, it can grow to almost four inches and may bleed or twist the ovary and cause pain. Clomid or Serophene, which are drugs used to induce ovulation, can raise the risk of getting this type of cyst. These cysts are almost never associated with cancer.

There are also other types of cysts:
  • Endometriomas. These cysts develop in women who have endometriosis, when tissue from the lining of the uterus grows outside of the uterus. The tissue may attach to the ovary and form a growth. These cysts can be painful during sexual intercourse and during menstruation.


    • MoonDragon's ObGyn Information: Endometriosis

  • Cystadenomas. These cysts develop from cells on the outer surface of the ovary. They are often filled with a watery fluid or thick, sticky gel. They can become large and cause pain.


  • Dermoid cysts. The cells in the ovary are able to make hair, teeth, and other growing tissues that become part of a forming ovarian cyst. These cysts can become large and cause pain.


  • Polycystic ovaries. The eggs mature within the follicles, or sacs, but the sac does not break open to release the egg. The cycle repeats, follicles continue to grow inside the ovary, and cysts form.


    • MoonDragon's ObGyn Information: Polycystic Ovary

Ovarian cysts are usually small, but in some cases, they may grow large enough to make a woman appear pregnant. Often, the largest ovarian tumors turn out to be benign. In some cases, the tumor may have features that suggest it will behave as a cancer, but over a long period of time (10 to 20 years). These are called low malignant potential ovarian tumors or borderline ovarian tumors.

polycystic ovary


  • Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a disorder in which the ovaries are enlarged and contain many small cysts (fluid-filled sacs). PCOS occurs as a result of an increase in the production of androgens (male hormones) by the ovaries and the adrenal glands. Women with PCOS may have irregular or no menstrual periods. PCOS is a condition that can last many years and can have a major impact on a woman's health.


    • MoonDragon's ObGyn Information: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

    MoonDragon's ObGyn Information: Endometriosis

    In the US: Ovarian cysts occur in 30 percent of females with regular menses, 50 percent of females with irregular menses, and 6 percent of post-menopausal women.

    THE MENSTRUAL CYCLE

    An average menstrual cycle is about 28 days, including 5-7 days of bleeding - counting the first day of bleeding as day 1. Normal cycles can vary from 23 to 35 days. During the menstrual cycle, the ovaries produce hormones that prepare the lining of the uterus - the endometrium - for possible pregnancy.

    Hormones trigger the menstrual cycle. From about day 5 to day 14, the hormone estrogen signals the endometrium to thicken. Or about day 14, an egg is released from one of the ovaries. This process is called ovulation. After ovulation, the hormone progesterone causes blood vessels in the endometrium to swell and other changes to occur in preparation for a possible pregnancy.

    After the egg is released from the ovary, it moves into one of the fallopian tubes connected to the uterus. If an egg joins with a sperm in the fallopian tube, it is fertilized. After the egg is fertilized, it travels through the fallopian tubes to the uterus. It then attaches to the endometrium and begins to grow.

    If the egg is not fertilized, the hormone levels decrease, and the endometrium is shed with some bleeding (menstrual period) on about day 28. The first day of the menstrual period marks the start of a new cycle (day 1).

    ovulation


    PCOS AND MENSTRUATION

    Everyone has both male and female hormones. PCOS occurs as a result of in increase in the production of androgens (male hormones) by the ovaries and the adrenal glands. In PCOS, the ovaries often become enlarged and contain many small cysts. The increase in androgen causes the irregular menstrual periods and may stop ovulation. Because of this, women continue to make estrogen, but they do not produce progesterone.

    In some women, the presence of estrogen without progesterone increases the risk that the endometrium will grow too much. This is a condition called endometrial hyperplasia. If untreated over a long time, endometrial hyperplasia may turn into cancer. PCOS is linked to other diseases that occur later in life, such as diabetes, atherosclerosis, and high blood pressure.



    FREQUENT SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

    Many women have ovarian cysts that may not cause symptoms. If symptoms occur, they may include:
    • Mild pelvic pain, pressure, fullness or pain in the abdomen.


    • Pain or dull ache in the lower back and thighs.


    • Discomfort or pain with/during sexual intercourse.


    • Problems with passing urine completely.


    • Abnormal bleeding with menstruation, including changes in menstrual flow, length of periods and intervals between periods. PCOS may have irregular or no menstrual periods.


    • Painful menstrual periods.


    • Nausea or vomiting.


    • Breast tenderness.


    • Excessive hair growth, deep voice and weight gain (sometimes). PCOS may produce excess hair on the face and body (Known as hirsutism), acne, obesity and infertility.


    • If a large ovarian tumor twists or ruptures, the following will occur in the lower abdomen - severe pain, rigid muscles, swelling.

    If you have any of these symptoms, you should contact your health care provider and get help right away by going to your clinic or the emergency room of your local hospital:
    • Pain with fever and vomiting.
    • Sudden, severe abdominal pain.
    • Faintness, dizziness, or weakness.
    • Rapid breathing.



    CAUSES

  • Usually unknown, but it is probably related to abnormalities in female hormone production and secretion.


  • Endometriosis.
    •



    RISK INCREASES WITH

  • Unknown. However, functional ovarian cysts usually occur during the childbearing years. Most often, cysts in women of this age group are not cancerous. Women who are past menopause (ages 50-70) with ovarian cysts have a higher risk of ovarian cancer. At any age, if you think you have a cyst, it is important you contact your health care provider.
    •



    PREVENTIVE MEASURES

    No specific preventive measures are available since ovarian cysts cannot be prevented. Fortunately, the vast majority of cysts do not cause any symptoms, are not related to cancer, and usually go away on their own without treatment. Discuss with your health care provider any changes you experience in your period, pain in the pelvic region, or any of the major symptoms given above. An exam, possibly with an ultrasound, can help determine if a cyst is causing a problem.

    Women not seeking pregnancy and developing functional cysts may use hormone therapy in the form of oral contraceptives, Depo-Provera, Norplant, or other hormone-contraception. Hormone therapy may prevent cyst formation. Use caution when using oral contraceptives or any hormone-based treatment as they may produce serious side effects in some women.



    EXPECTED OUTCOME

  • Most ovarian tumors require no treatment and disappear spontaneously within 2 months. In other cases, treatment usually provides a complete cure.
    •



    POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS

  • Emergency abdominal surgery caused by twisting, rupture or bleeding of the ovary.


  • Death and illness be caused by pain from rupture, hemorrhaging with rupture, peritonitis, adnexal torsion, infertility, irregular vaginal bleeding, dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia, and underlying malignancy.
    •



    TREATMENT


    GENERAL MEASURES

    DIAGNOSIS

    health exam
    Diagnostic tests include laboratory blood studies and pelvic examination. Since ovarian cysts may not cause symptoms, they are usually found during a routine pelvic exam. During this exam, your health care provider is able to feel the swelling of the cyst on your ovary. Once a cyst is found, your health care provider may perform an ultrasound (sonogram), which uses sound waves to create images of the body. With an ultrasound, the cyst can be seen and its shape, size, and location is noted. The ultrasound can tell whether it is fluid filled, solid or mixed. Usually, ultrasound studies with and without blood flow measurements to the involved ovary are useful for diagnosis and to help determine the best therapy. The ultrasound/sonogram can be done either through your abdomen or your vagina.

    A pregnancy test may also be done. Hormone levels in your blood, such as LH, FSH, estradiol, and testosterone, may also be checked.

    Your health care provider may want to do other tests to help with or confirm diagnosis. Laparoscopy (a telescopic instrument with fiber optic light is used to examine the abdominal cavity) in some cases, and rarely, a CT scan or MRI may be recommended.

    To find out if the cyst might be cancerous, your health care provider may do a blood test to measure a substance in the blood called CA-125. The amount of this protein is higher if a woman has ovarian cancer. However, some ovarian cancers do not make enough CA-125 to be detected by the test. There are also non-cancerous diseases that increase the levels of CA-125, like uterine fibroids and endometriosis. These non-cancerous causes of increased CA-125 are more common in women under 35, while ovarian cancer is very uncommon in this age group. For this reason, the CA-125 test is recommended mostly for women over age 35, who are at high risk for the disease and have a cyst that is partially solid.

    CONVENTIONAL MEDICAL TREATMENT

    Treatment may not be necessary, except to have regular pelvic examinations so the tumor's growth can be monitored. Watchful waiting in which the patient waits and gets re-examined in one to three months to see if the cyst has changed in size. This is a common treatment option for women who are in their childbearing years, have no symptoms, and have a fluid-filled cyst. It also might be an option for post-menopausal women.

    Some tumors require surgery to diagnose accurately, ruling out malignancy, or to treat. If the cyst doesn't go away after several menstrual periods, has gotten larger, looks unusual on the ultrasound, causes pain, or you're post-menopausal, your health care provider may want to remove it. There are two main surgical procedures:
    • Laparoscopy - If the cyst is small (the size of a plum or smaller) and looks benign on the ultrasound, your health care provider may perform a laparoscopy. This procedure is done under general anesthesia. A very small incision is made above or below the navel, and a small instrument that acts like a telescope is inserted into the abdomen. If the cyst is small and looks benign, it can be removed through a small incision in the pubic hair line.


    • Laparotomy - If the cyst is large and looks suspicious, your health care provider may perform a procedure called a laparotomy. This procedure involves making bigger incisions in the stomach to remove the cyst. While you are under general anesthesia, the practitioner is able to have the cyst tested to find out if the tissue is cancerous. If it is cancerous, she/he may need to remove the ovary and other tissues that may be affected, like the uterus or lymph nodes.

    If one ovary must be removed, normal conception and childbirth is possible as long as a normal ovary remains on the other side.

    OTHER TREATMENT OPTIONS

  • If you are overweight, losing weight can help relieve the symptoms of PCOS. Weight loss can also help lower the risk of other long-term conditions.


  • Oral contraceptives (birth control pills) may be prescribed. If you develop cysts, your health care provider may want you to use hormone therapy, as found in birth control pills, to prevent you from ovulating. This will lower the chances of forming new cysts. Before using hormonal treatment, be sure you discuss with your health care provider the risks and benefits as well as side effects associated with oral hormone therapy. Women with a past history of adverse reactions to oral contraceptives, have health issues that are contraindicated or lifestyle concerns, such as smoking, should not take them.


    • MoonDragon's Contraception Information: Oral Contraceptives

    MoonDragon's Contraception Information: Hormone Implants

    MoonDragon's Contraception Information: Hormone Injections

    MoonDragon's Contraception Information: Hormone Patches

    MoonDragon's Contraception Information: Hormone Rings

    HELPFUL RESOURCES

    American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP)
    Internet Address: http://familydoctor.org

    Agency for Healthcare Research & Quality (AHRQ) Phone: (800) 358-9295
    Internet Address: http://www.ahrq.gov

    American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM)
    Phone: (205) 978-5000
    Internet Address: http://www.asrm.org

    National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD)
    Phone: (800) 370-2943
    Internet Address: http://www.nichd.nih.gov/womenshealth

    InterNational Council on Infertility Information Dissemination, Inc. (INCIID)
    Phone: (703) 379-9178
    Internet Address: http://www.inciid.org



    MEDICATION

  • Female hormones or clomiphene may be prescribed. These help to shrink or destroy some tumors. Oral contraceptives are often used as the first step in treatment. The hormone progesterone may be used alone or in combination with other hormones. Use oral contraceptive with caution as they may produce some serious side effects.


  • Women who wish to become pregnant may be given fertility drugs instead of birth control pills.


  • Birth control pills or other hormones may be used to slow the growth of new excess body hair. It may take several months, however, before you will notice the results. To remove unwanted hair sooner, you may want to try electrolysis or other hair removal methods.
    •



    ACTIVITY

  • No restrictions if surgery is not necessary.
    •



    DIET

  • No special diet. However, you should follow a nutritious diet keep a healthy immune system to prevent infection. If you are overweight, try to lose the extra pounds.


    • For ovarian cysts related to endometriosis - see Nutritional & Holistic Recommendations For Endometriosis below on this page.



    RELATED LINKS

    MoonDragon's ObGyn Information: Endometriosis

    MoonDragon's Health & Wellness: Endometriosis - An Alternative Treatment

    MoonDragon's ObGyn Information: Endometrial Hyperplasia

    MoonDragon's ObGyn Information: Polycystic Ovary

    MoonDragon's ObGyn Information: Fibroid Uterus



    NOTIFY YOUR HEALTH CARE PROVIDER IF...

  • You or your family member has symptoms of an ovarian tumor or cysts, especially severe pain, rigidity and abdominal distension.


  • New, unexplained symptoms develop. Drugs used in treatment may produce side effects.
    •



    ENDOMETRIOSIS DIET & NUTRITIONAL RECOMMENDATIONS

  • Some diet changes may help and diet may be very important in managing endometriosis. Consider following an Estrogen Reduction Diet. Endometriosis may be a cause of ovarian cysts.


  • Eat a diet consisting of 50 percent raw vegetables and fruits and including soy foods. In addition, eat only whole-grained products (no refined flour products) and raw nuts and seeds. A diet rich in soy and fiber is very important in managing endometriosis.


  • Include "green drinks " made from dark green leafy vegetables in your diet.


  • Use kelp to add iron to the diet. The heavy monthly bleeding that is common in women with endometriosis often leads to iron deficiency.


  • Avoid alcohol, caffeine (it seems to aggravate pain in some women), animal fats, butter, dairy products, fried foods, foods that contain additives, all hardened fats, junk or fast foods, red meats, poultry (except organically raised and skinless), refined and processed foods, salt, shellfish, and sugar.


  • Some nutrition researchers have theorized that endometriosis is related to an inability to absorb calcium properly.


  • Fast for 3 days each month before the anticipated beginning of the menstrual period. Use steam-distilled water and fresh live juices. See Pre-menstrual Syndrome (PMS) and Fasting for more information.


    • NUTRITIONAL SUPPLEMENTS

    Nutritional supplements can help balance hormones and reduce estrogen levels. When used properly, they can dramatically reduce bleeding, pain, and cramps that may accompany fibroids and endometriosis. Taking supplements, however, does not mean that you can ignore your diet. The best approach for fibroids, endometriosis, and optimal health is to eat healthy foods and take nutritional supplements. See Nutrition Supplement Chart below for more detailed information.

    Food and Nutrition: Supplement the diet with vitamin C, vitamin B-6, folic acid, calcium, magnesium, essential fatty acids such as linoleic acid, and evening primrose oil. Avoid caffeine, sugar, alcohol, and acid-forming foods (red meat, dairy products, heated or treated oils, and excess carbohydrates, especially refined products).

    Try a short juice fast to clear out the body, and follow up with cultured foods such as miso or tempeh, unless you have a food allergy to soy products. After cleansing the body, plenty of fresh greens, fresh fruits in season, and a reasonable quantity of whole grains provide strength. Include changes to stabilize hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), such as eating smaller meals. As always, eating little or no animal fat decreases harmful excess estrogen.

    The following food items are especially good:

    Soybean (Glycine max) and Other Beans:

    Soybeans are high in estrogen-like plant compounds, genistein and daidzein. These prevent your body from taking up the more harmful forms of estrogen circulating in your blood. These phytoestrogens take the place of the bad estrogen, binding to the cell's estrogen receptor sites and prevent more harmful estrogens from binding to these receptors. They also protect the body from pollutants that chemically mimic estrogen.

    Herbal Remedies: Soy Protein, Unflavored, NOW Foods, 1 lb.

    Herbal Remedies: Soy / Soybean Information

    Herbal Remedies: Soy Supplements & Products

    Bean sprouts supply more genistein (the more active of the two phytoestrogens) than soybeans. As beans germinate, their genistein content increases. If the sprouts have fungi, the genistein content may increase as much as hundred-fold!

    Pinto beans, yellow split beans, black turtle beans, lima beans, anasazi beans, red kidney beans, red lentils, black eyed peas, mung beans, adzuki beans, and fava beans are other sources of these important phytoestrogens.

    If you have endometriosis eat as much edible beans as possible as often as possible. Eat salads made of bean sprouts. Take bean soups, baked beans, and Mexican foods rich in beans such as burritos.

    Flax (linum Usitatissimum):

    Flaxseed contains generous amounts of compounds called lignans. These are believed to help control endometrial cancer.

    Flaxseed might be particularly helpful for anyone who is not a vegetarian, Vegetarians have high blood and urine levels of lignans. Consuming meat suppresses lignans substantially. Flaxseed helps to supplement this deficit.

    Herbal Remedies: Golden Flax Seeds, NOW Foods, Whole Bulk, 16 oz.

    Herbal Remedies: Flax Seed Oil / Flaxseed / Omega-3 / Fatty Acid DHA Supplements & Products

    Peanut (Arachis hypogaea):

    Peanuts contain many of the healthful substances as soybeans and other beans. Many people prefer the taste of peanuts over soybeans.

    The papery red membrane surrounding Spanish peanuts is a source for oligomeric procyanidins (OPCs), substances that may help control hormone dependent cancers and possibly endometriosis.

    Alfalfa (Medicago sativa):

    Alfalfa sprouts contain phytoestrogens. Use them liberally on salads. Eating them also reduces the risk of contracting cancer. (Do not consume alfalfa if you or your family has a history of lupus.)

    Herbal Remedies: Alfa Max, Alfalfa Extract, Nature's Way, 525 mg, 100 Caps

    Herbal Remedies: Alfalfa Powder, Whole Food Supplement, NOW Foods, 1 lb.

    Herbal Remedies: Alfalfa Leaves, Nature's Way, 405 mg, 100 Caps

    Herbal Remedies: Alfalfa, NOW Foods, 650 mg, 500 Tabs

    Herbal Remedies: Alfalfa Supplements & Products

    Evening Primrose Oil (Oenothera biennis):

    EPO contains gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) and tryptophan, substances that promote good health in women. Though there is good evidence suggesting that lower doses of evening primrose oil (EPO) are of value for reproductive imbalance (breast tenderness, PMS), higher doses are reportedly more effective for reproductive damage (inflammation, pain). Other sources of essential fatty acids such as flax, borage, or black currant seed oil are important for a rounded intake of healthy oils, but these do not act as quickly in women with endometriosis. For this reason, higher doses of the more expensive EPO may have to be used for the short term.

    Herbal Remedies: Evening Primrose Oil, 100% Pure, NOW Foods, 4 fl. oz.

    Herbal Remedies: Evening Primrose Oil Supplements & Products

  • Take a good natural multi-vitamin and mineral supplement.


    • Herbal Remedies: Women's Multi-Vitamin Supplements & Products

    Herbal Remedies: Multi-Vitamin & Multi-Mineral Supplements & Products

  • Zinc citrate with a dosage of at least 15 mg per day.


    • Herbal Remedies: Zinc Supplements & Products

  • Vitamin A. Studies have shown that women with excessive menstrual bleeding have significantly lower blood levels of vitamin A than the normal population. And that many women will return to a normal bleeding pattern after two weeks of vitamin A treatment. Recommended dosage is 1,000-5,000 IU per day of vitamin A.


    • Herbal Remedies: Vitamin A Supplements & Products
  • B-complex vitamins help regulate estrogen levels and reduce menstrual pain and cramps. In clinical studies, Vitamin B-6 has led to a reduction in PMS-related cramping, fluid retention, weight gain, and fatigue. Recommended dosage is 50-100 mg of B-complex vitamins daily, with an additional dose of up to 300 mg of vitamin B-6 for women with fibroids or endometriosis.


    • Herbal Remedies: Vitamin B Complex Supplements & Products

  • Vitamin E. Vitamin E to be useful in treating women with heavy menstrual bleeding from fibroids and endometriosis. Recommended dosage is 400-800 IU per day.


    • Herbal Remedies: Vitamin E Supplements & Products

  • Vitamin C, with bioflavonoids, has been used to treat heavy menstrual bleeding. It strengthens capillaries and reduces risk of iron deficiency and anemia in women who bleed excessively by helping absorb dietary iron. Recommended dosage is 1,000-5,000 mg of vitamin C per day in divided dosages. Bioflavonoids also help regulate excessive estrogen levels in the body. Therapeutic bioflavonoid dosages are 750-2,000 mg per day.


    • Herbal Remedies: Vitamin C Supplements & Products

  • Ground whole flaxseeds and cold-pressed organic, rich, golden flaxseed oil are also excellent sources of the two essential oils, linoleic acid (omega-6 fatty acids) and linolenic acid (omega-3 fatty acids). These prostaglandins help to reduce menstrual cramps, breast tenderness, bloating and the effects of PMS. Flax is weakly estrogenic, and the lignans in flax reduce production of estrogen and compete with more potent estrogen for tissue receptors. Recommended dosage is 2 tablespoons of flaxseed oil, or 4-6 tablespoons of ground flaxseeds per day. Dosage should contain 1000 mg per day.


    • Herbal Remedies: Flax Seed Oil / Flaxseed / Omega-3 / Fatty Acid DHA Supplements & Products

  • Iron. Women who suffer from heavy menstrual bleeding due to fibroids and endometriosis tend to be iron deficient. In fact, some medical studies have found that inadequate iron intake may even cause excessive bleeding. Women who suffer from heavy menstrual bleeding should have their red blood count checked to see if they need supplemental iron in addition to a high-iron-content diet. Heme iron, the iron from meat sources like liver, is much better absorbed and assimilated than non-heme iron, the iron from vegetarian sources. To be absorbed properly, iron must be taken with vitamin C. Recommended dosage is 25 mg per day of iron with 30 mg of vitamin C per day.


    • Herbal Remedies: Iron Supplements & Products

  • Calcium and Magnesium. The uterus is susceptible to calcium deficiency. It is made up of muscle, and muscles that are deficient in these two minerals tend to be hyperactive and more likely to cramp. Calcium maintains muscle tone, and magnesium optimizes calcium in your system by increasing its absorption. The recommended daily allowance (RDA) for calcium in menstruating women is 800 mg per day, rising to as much as 1,500 mg per day in post-menopausal women. Calcium can interfere with magnesium absorption. The recommended dosage for magnesium is half as much magnesium as calcium or approximately 400-750 mg per day.
    • Herbal Remedies: Calcium Supplements & Products

    Herbal Remedies: Magnesium Supplements & Products

    Amanda M. Crawford, author of 'Herbal Remedies for Women' recommends the following nutritional supplements daily for women suffering from endometriosis:

    Nutritional Supplements
    For Endometriosis
    Vitamin B Complex
    (containing 2 milligrams B-6)    		 Use as directed on label.

    Herbal Remedies: Vitamin B Complex Supplements & Products
    Folic Acid 150 micrograms.

    Herbal Remedies: Folic Acid / Vitamin B-9 Supplements & Products
    Liquid Potassium
    (Taken in recommended doses)    		 3 times a day.

    Herbal Remedies: Liqui-K, Liquid Potassium & Magnesium Supplement, TwinLabs, 16 fl. oz.

    Herbal Remedies: Potassium Ionic Mineral Supplement, Fully Absorbable, 340 +/- ppm, 16 fl. oz.

    Herbal Remedies: Potassium Supplements & Products
    Flax Seed Oil Start at 1/8 teaspoon doses, increase to 1 teaspoon per dose or more as tolerated.

    Herbal Remedies: Flax Seed Oil / Flaxseed / Omega-3 / Fatty Acid DHA Supplements & Products
    Vitamin E
    8-10 milligrams alpha-TE
    (alpha tocopherol equivalent)    		 May use 200-600 IU (up to 1,200 IU maximum).

    Herbal Remedies: Vitamin E Supplements & Products
    Magnesium
    (containing 2 milligrams B-6)    		 400 milligrams.

    Herbal Remedies: Magnesium Supplements & Products
    Calcium 800 milligrams.

    Herbal Remedies: Calcium Supplements & Products
    Vitamin A 800 RE (retinol equivalent); may use 5,000 IU
    (up to 50,000 IU for four months or less).

    Herbal Remedies: Vitamin A Supplements & Products
    Vitamin D 10 RE; may use 400 IU
    (up to 1,000 IU maximum)

    Herbal Remedies: Vitamin D Supplements & Products
    Vitamin C 300 milligrams (up to 1.0 grams).

    Herbal Remedies: Vitamin C Supplements & Products
    Evening Primrose Oil (for GLA - Gamma-Linolenic Acid) Eight 500 milligram capsules per day for six to ten weeks (most effective).

    Herbal Remedies: Evening Primrose Oil Supplements & Products


    NUTRITIONAL SUPPLEMENTS

    Unless otherwise specified, the following recommended doses are for adults over the age of 18. The nutrient program and other recommendations outlined below may help to keep endometriosis under control if diagnosed in the early stages.

    NUTRIENTS
    Supplement Suggested Dosage Comments
    Very Important
    Vitamin E Start with 200-400 IU daily and increase slowly to 1,000 IU daily. Aids hormonal balance. Use d-alpha-tocopherol form.
    Vitamin E, d-alpha tocopherol, 400 IU, 100 Softgels,
    Ester E Natural Vitamin E, California Natural, 400 IU, 60 Softgels,
    Vitamin E, 400 IU, 100% Natural, NOW Foods, 100 Gels,
    Vitamin E-1000, NOW Foods, 1000 IU, 100 Gels
    Vitamin K or Alfalfa 200 mcg daily. Needed for normal blood clotting. See under herbs below.
    Alfalfa Leaves, Nature's Way, 405 mg, 100 Caps,
    Chlorophyll With Alfalfa Powder, NOW Foods, 100 mg, 90 Caps,
    Alfa Max, Alfalfa Extract, Nature's Way, 525 mg, 100 Caps,
    Alfalfa, NOW Foods, 650 mg, 500 Tabs,
    Alfalfa Powder, Whole Food Supplement, NOW Foods, 1 lb.,
    Chlorofresh Liquid Chlorophyll, From Alfalfa Leaves, Mint Flavor, Nature's Way, 16 fl. oz.,
    Full spectrum Vitamin K, Allergy Research Group / Nutricology, 90 Softgels
    Important
    Essential Fatty Acids
    (Evening Primrose Oil & Kyolic EPA are good sources)    		 1,500 mg daily. Provides essential fatty acids such as gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) that aid in regulating hormonal and prostaglandin balance.
    Evening Primrose Oil, Cold-Pressed, Nature's Way, 500 mg, 250 Softgels,
    Evening Primrose Oil, Cold-Pressed, Nature's Way, 1300 mg, 120 Softgels,
    Evening Primrose Oil, NOW Foods, 100% Pure, 4 fl. oz.
    Iron As directed by health care provider. Deficiency is common in those with this disorder. Use ferrous fumarate form, if available. Caution: Do not take iron unless anemia is diagnosed.
    Iron Ionic Mineral Supplement, Fully Absorbable, 20 +/- ppm, 16 fl. oz.,
    Iron Gluconate, Nature's Way, 18 mg, 100 Caps,
    Iron Complex With Vitamins & Herbs, Vegetarian, NOW Foods, 250 Tabs,
    Ionic Iron Supplement With ConcenTrace, Trace Minerals, 2 oz.,
    Completia Prenatal Multi-Vitamin With DHA, Folic Acid, & Iron, Nature's Way, 180 Tabs,
    Prenatal Vitamins, Albion Iron, NOW Foods, 120 Caps,
    Alive, Whole Food Energizer, Multi-Vitamin & Mineral With Iron Added, Nature's Way, 90 VCaps,
    Multi Mineral Complex w/ Iron, Nature's Way, 100 Caps
    Floradix Iron + Herbs from Salus Haus As directed on label. An easily assimilated and nontoxic source of iron.
    Vitamin B Complex As directed on label. Promotes blood cell productivity and proper hormone balance.
    Vitamin B-100 Complex w/ Coenzyme B-2, Nature's Way, 631 mg, 100 Caps,
    Vitamin B-50 Complex w/ Coenzyme B-2, Nature's Way, 330 mg, 100 Caps,
    Liquid Yeast, B Complex, TwinLab, 16 fl. oz.,
    B-Stress Vitamin Complex With Siberian Eleuthero, Nature's Way, 100 Caps,
    Ultimate B (Vitamin B Complex Formula), Nature's Secret, 60 Tabs,
    Vitamin B-12 Complex Liquid, NOW Foods, 2 fl. oz.
    And
    Vitamin B-5 (Pantothenic Acid)    		 50-100 mg 3 times daily. Relieves stress; needed for proper adrenal function.
    Vitamin B-5 (Pantothenic Acid), 100% Natural, Nature's Way, 250 mg, 100 Caps,
    Pantethine (Coenzyme A Precursor), Highly Active Form Of Vitamin B-5, NOW Foods, 300 mg, 60 Softgels
    Plus Extra
    Vitamin B-6 (Pyridoxine)    		 25-50 mg 3 times daily. Aids the body in removing excess fluids.
    Vitamin B-6 (Pyridoxine), Nature's Way, 100% Natural, 100 mg, 100 Caps
    Vitamin C With Bioflavonoids 2,000 mg 3 times daily. Important in the healing process. Use a buffered form.
    Vitamin C 500 W/ Bioflavonoids, 100% Natural, 500 mg, 250 Caps,
    Vitamin C Liquid W/ Rose Hips & Bioflavoids, Dynamic Health, Kosher, Natural Citrus Flavor, 1000 mg, 16 fl. oz.,
    Ester C With Bioflavonoids, Nature's Way, 1000 mg, 90 Tabs,
    Vitamin C 1000 With Bioflavonoids, Nature's Way, 100% Natural, 1000 mg, 250 VCaps,
    The Right C, Nature's Way, 1000 mg, 120 Tabs
    Zinc 50 mg daily. Do not exceed a total of 100 mg daily from all supplements. For tissue repair and immune function. Use zinc gluconate lozenges or OptiZinc for best absorption.
    Zinc Ionic Mineral Supplement, Fully Absorbable, 100 +/- ppm, 16 fl. oz.,
    Colloidal Silver & Zinc Lozenges, Silva Solution, 90 Lozenges,
    Zinc Lozenges W/ Echinacea & Vitamin C, Nature's Way, 23 mg, 60 Lozenges,
    Zinc (Chelated), 100% Natural, Nature's Way, 30 mg, 100 Caps
    Helpful
    Beta-1,3-D-Glucan As directed on label. Stimulates the activity of macrophages, which can remove foreign cellular debris.
    NanoHydrate, With Beta-1,3-D-Glucan, Nature's RX, 90 Caps,
    ABM Mushroom Extract (Agaricus Blazei Murill), 400 mg, 90 VCaps
    ABM contains high level of effective elements such as polysaccarides, both Beta(1-3)D-glucan & Beta(1-6)D-glucan protein compounds, ribonucleic acid protein compounds, acid heteroglucan, xyloglucan, lectin, etc.
    Calcium 1,500 mg daily. To supply needed minerals. Use chelate forms.
    Just An Ounce Calcium & Magnesium Liquid, Almond Flavor, 16 fl. oz.,
    Calcium Citrate / Malate Complex, Nature's Way, 500 mg, 250 Caps,
    Calcium Ionic Mineral Supplement, Fully Absorbable, 700 +/- ppm, 16 fl. oz.,
    Liquid Calcium W/ConcenTrace, Orange Vanilla, Trace Minerals, 1000 mg, 32 fl. oz.,
    Cal-Mag Pre-Chelated Calcium & Magnesium, Vital Earth, 240 Gelcaps
    And
    Magnesium    		 1,000 mg daily, at bedtime. Works with calcium. Use magnesium chelate form.
    Just An Ounce Calcium & Magnesium Liquid, Almond Flavor, 16 fl. oz.,
    Calcium & Magnesium Mineral Complex, 100% Natural, Nature's Way, 500 mg / 250 mg, 250 Caps,
    Magnesium Ionic Mineral Supplement, Fully Absorbable, 350 +/- ppm, 16 fl. oz.,
    Magnesium Citrate Complex, Nature's Way, 250 mg, 100 Caps
    Kelp 1,000-1,500 mg daily. To supply needed minerals.
    Kelp Seaweed Norwegian, NOW Foods, 100% Natural acophyllum nodosum, 550 mg, 250 Caps,
    Kelp Supplement, Nature's Way, Certified, 650 mg, 100 Caps,
    Kelp Seaweed (Norwegian) Powder, 4 oz.,
    Kelp Seaweed Tincture (Norwegian), 2 fl. oz.
    Multi-Vitamin & Mineral Complex As directed on label. All nutrients are required for repair and healing.
    Maxi Multi Liquid Vitamin w/ Trace Minerals, 32 fl. oz.,
    Super Multi-Vitamin & Multi-Mineral, Pure Vital Earth, 98% Bio-Available For Absorption, 32 fl. oz.
    Damage Control Master Formula, High Potency Multi-Vitamin, 60 Packets (30 Day Supply),
    Women's Living Green Liquid Gel Multi-Vitamin, Irwin Naturals, 90 Softgels,
    Organic Life Vitamins, Peter Gillham's Natural Vitality, 30 Packets, 1 fl. oz. Each,
    Peter Gillham's Liquid Organic Life Vitamins, 32 fl. oz.,
    Enzymatic Therapy, Doctor's Choice MultiVitamin For Women Age 45 Plus, 180 Tabs,
    Electro-Vita-Min, Trace Minerals, 180 Tabs,
    Multi-Vitamin & Mineral Complete, Trace Minerals, 120 Tabs,
    Alive! Whole Food Energizer Multi-Vitamin & Mineral W/ Naturally Occurring Iron (No Iron Added), Nature's Way, 90 Tabs,
    Multi-Vitamin With Minerals, Hi-Tech, 90 Tabs,
    Multi-Vitamin & Mineral without Iron, Complete Vitamin Supplement, Nature's Way, 100 Caps,
    Multi-Vitamin & Mineral with Iron, Complete Vitamin Supplement, Nature's Way, 100 Caps




    HERBAL THERAPY

    Thankfully, many cases of endometriosis can be treated with herbs, but you must be patient - most of the women I know who chose to treat this disorder herbally found that successful treatment took many months. For best results, work with a natural health care professional who has experience with this disorder and can help you develop a complete healing campaign that includes dietary changes, massage and possibly acupuncture. Caution: You should not take any of the herbs if you are taking, The Pill, Fertility drugs, HRT or any other hormonal treatment or other medication unless they are recommended by an experienced practitioner.

    Herbs seem to promote tissue healing through a blend of effects. In addition to using phytoestrogens and other hormone-balancing plants, therapy aims to augment circulation to and from the areas of damage. Nutritive herbs provide building materials for the cells. Particular hepatic herbs may be chosen if a woman needs to eliminate toxins. Finally, it is important to improve immune-system function so that white blood cells will cluster around and eat up debris or imperfect cells.

    Some herbs that are useful for the treatment of endometriosis are:
    Here is a summary of the beneficial effect sought from a herbal treatment and the herbs that are involved:
    Amanda M. Crawford, author of 'Herbal Remedies for Women' recommends two herbal formulae that are useful for endometriosis. According to her, Herbal Formula #1 decreases excess estrogen during the luteal phase of the cycle. Herbal Formula #2 balances progesterone and shrinks and heals endometrial lesions. Herbs in both formulas share complementary effects throughout the month; these relax painful spasms, stimulate liver function, build healthy immune-system response to cellular debris, or nourish a woman undergoing the physiological demands of self-healing.

    Herbal formula #1

    (Take from ovulation through the end of menses)
    Vitex agnus-castus (Chasteberry Seed)
    1 ounce
    Viburnum opulus (Cramp Bark)
    2 ounces
    Achillea millefolium (Yarrow Flower)
    2 ounces
    Scutellaria lateriflora (Skullcap Herb)
    2 ounces
    Dioscorea villosa (Wild Yam Root)
    1 ounce


    Herbal formula #2

    (Take from the end of menses to ovulation)
    Vitex agnus-castus (Chasteberry Seed)
    2 ounces
    Caulophyllum thalictroides (Blue Cohosh Root)
    1 ounce
    Smilax ornata (Sarsaparilla Root)
    1 ounce
    Carduus marianum (Milk Thistle Seed)
    2 ounces
    Mitchella repens (Partridgeberry Herb)
    1 ounce
    Dioscorea villosa (Wild Yam Root)
    2 ounces
    Optional:
    Valeriana officinalis (Valerian Root)

    If the pain is severe but you are sensitive to Valeriana, you may replace it with double the amount or more of Passiflora (Passionflower Herb)
    1 ounce or more


    These must be continued for a minimum of three months before effects may have a lasting benefit, but the therapy should improve symptoms of pain within the first few days. The complete treatment would take into account the length of the disease and its progression. Consult a qualified practitioner before starting any treatment. If you are pregnant, do not take any herbal supplement without consulting with your health care provider or midwife. Some of these herbs should not be used during pregnancy.

  • Vitex ( Chaste Tree Berry) is one of the most important herbs in formulas treating endometriosis. Vitex dosage is 225 mg daily from chaste tree extract increases the production of the luteinizing hormone that triggers ovulation at mid-cycle, promoting progesterone production. It also inhibits release of the follicle-stimulating hormone that stimulates estrogen production in the first half of the menstrual cycle. So it normalizes the secretion of hormones and helps to bring estrogen and progesterone into balance during peri-menopause.


    • Herbal Remedies: Chaste Tree Berry Supplements & Products

  • Alfalfa is a good source of vitamin K (necessary for blood clotting and healing) and needed minerals, including iron. Many women with endometriosis are iron deficient.


    • Herbal Remedies: Alfalfa Supplements & Products

  • Astragalus, Garlic, Goldenseal, Myrrh Gum, Pau D'Arco, and Red Clover have antibiotic and anti-tumor properties. Goldenseal contains berberine, which relaxes uterine muscles.

    Herbal Remedies: Astragalus Supplements & Products

    Herbal Remedies: Garlic Supplements & Products

    Herbal Remedies: Goldenseal Supplements & Products

    Herbal Remedies: Myrrh Supplements & Products

    Herbal Remedies: Pau D' Arco Supplements & Products

    Herbal Remedies: Red Clover Supplements & Products

  • Shepherd's Purse has been used to help stop menstrual bleeding. (If your bleeding is excessive or irregular, consult your health care provider as it can be dangerous and should never be allowed to continue without medical help.)


    • Herbal Remedies: Garlic Supplements & Products

  • Yellow Dock is a good source of iron.


    • Herbal Remedies: Yellow Dock Supplements & Products

  • White Willow contains salicin. Salicylic acid, the precursor of aspirin, was purified from this plant. White willow bark reduces inflammation, pain and fever, and helps treat primary menstrual cramps and headaches. Like aspirin, it can produce unwanted side effects of gastric indigestion, nausea and diarrhea, so use the herbs carefully.


    • Herbal Remedies: White Willow Supplements & Products

  • Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum) is an excellent herb for the liver, which needs to work efficiently to balance the hormones. A number of studies have shown that its use can result in an increase of new liver cells to replace old damaged ones.


    • Herbal Remedies: Milk Thistle Supplements & Products

  • Burdock Root, Dong Quai, and Red Raspberry Leaf help to balance hormones. Burdock is a good herb to also treat your liver since the liver helps clear estrogen from the body.


    • Herbal Remedies: Burdock Supplements & Products

    Herbal Remedies: Dong Quai Supplements & Products

    Herbal Remedies: Red Raspberry Supplements & Products

  • Nettles is rich in iron and is helpful in treating iron anemia caused by blood loss.


    • Herbal Remedies: Nettle Leaf Supplements & Products

  • To reduce bleeding, inflammation, muscle cramps and pain that generally accompany this disorder, the herbs useful for easing these symptoms are Cramp Bark and Wild Yam. For herbs to help stop cramping and menstrual pain are Evening Primrose Oil and Ginger. Red Raspberry reduces bleeding and is thought to strengthen the uterus.


    • Herbal Remedies: Cramp Bark Supplements & Products

    Herbal Remedies: Wild Yam Supplements & Products

    Herbal Remedies: Evening Primrose Supplements & Products

    Herbal Remedies: Ginger Supplements & Products

    Herbal Remedies: Red Raspberry Supplements & Products

  • Horsetail also reduces excessive bleeding, especially menstrual bleeding. And it may do more than that for women with endometriosis - herbalists believe that it keeps scar tissue flexible, thus preventing further scarring. During the tuberculosis outbreaks of the early twentieth century, horsetail was used to reduce the amount of scarring on people's lungs. Pills containing horsetail are commonly sold to strengthen nails and hair, and may also strengthen connective ligaments such as those that hold the uterus in place.


    • Herbal Remedies: Horsetail Supplements & Products

  • Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea) is the herb of choice for the immune system and it helps to increase the white blood cell count. It seems to be more effective when taken on and off. Suggested usage is ten days on and three days off for maximum immune system benefits. Women with endometriosis need to rebuild their immune systems. Taking echinacea is a good herb to do this because this herb not only improves the immunity, but also helps repair connective tissues and fibers.


    • Herbal Remedies: Echinacea Supplements & Products

  • Castor Oil packs are also very helpful in treating endometriosis. No one can explain exactly how they work, but experience has shown me time and again that they often make the difference between the success of a natural treatment and its failure. A recent study from Washington University in Washington, D.C., showed that castor oil packs can improve the function of the immune system in the pelvic area.


    • Herbal Remedies: Castor Oil Supplements & Products



    Endometriosis Herb Formula Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz.

    Endometriosis herb formula for use with ovarian cysts. This formula is supportive for women who are at risk for endometriosis or who have endometriosis.


    AN ENDOMETRIAL HERBAL TREATMENT PLAN:

    A good customized formula includes the primary herbs Echinacea, Vitex (Chaste Berry Tree), Wild Yam, Red Raspberry, Motherwort and Nettles, with Burdock and Milk Thistle added for liver function.

    Castor oil packs and hot and cold sitz baths with a few drops of Lavender or Chamomile essential oil (in the hot bath only) to increase circulation in the pelvic area should be added to the herbal formula use.

    For sitz baths you can use two large plastic tubs that can be bought at a hardware store. One for cold water one for hot water. Stress and anything else that lowers immunity, such as not getting enough sleep or not eating well, should be avoided since it can make endometriosis much worse. Just one cup of coffee can start the cramping again. It will take lots of discipline and habits changes to improve your endometriosis dramatically. After treatment you may still feel a twinge of pain when you do not eat right or you sleep poorly or feel stressed. Keep working on your herbal treatment plan to prevent endometrial symptoms from worsening.

    Endometriosis Tea

    1 teaspoon Vitex (Chaste) Berries
    1 teaspoon Echinacea Root
    1 teaspoon Wild Yam rhizome
    1 teaspoon Cramp Bark
    1/2 teaspoon Horsetail stalks
    1/2 teaspoon Red Raspberry
    1/2 teaspoon Motherwort
    1 quart water

    Combine herbs and water in an uncovered pot and bring to a boil. Turn down the heat and let simmer gently for about 5 minutes. Remove from heat, cover and steep for 15 minutes. Strain out herbs. Drink at least 2 cups daily. This formula can also be taken as a tincture or in capsules.

    Castor Oil Pack

    1/4 cup Castor Oil
    8 drops Lavender essential oil
    Soft cloth

    Combine Castor Oil and Lavender essential oil. Soak cloth in this mixture, then fold it and place it in a baking dish in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes - it should be quite warm, but not uncomfortably so. Place the folded cloth directly over the afflicted area and cover it with a towel to keep it warm. (A hot water bottle on top of this also works well.) Use the pack once a day for 30 to 60 minutes. Rinse off the oil after each application.

    Sitz Bath

    10 drops Rosemary essential oil

    Add essential oil to a bathtub and stir well to distribute. Sit in tub with hot water up to your waist for 5 to 10 minutes (this is a good time to read a book). Then sit in a tub of cold water, also up to your waist, for at least 1 minute. (The large plastic tubs sold at hardware stores work fine.) Continue for 2 to 5 rounds. Perform this treatment every day, if possible. Lavender or Chamomile essential oils could be used in place of rosemary. If you want, you can make a strong tea of these herbs and use that instead of the essential oils.

    OTHER HERBAL-ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE THERAPIES:

    CureZone.com: Endometriosis Prevention & Curing Protocol (Herbs/Alt. Therapy)

    SensibleHealth.com: Endometriosis & Liver Stagnation

    Chinese Herbal Therapy for Endometriosis

    SensibleHealth.com: Endometriosis & Liver Stagnation

    HOMEOPATHIC REMEDIES FOR ENDOMETRIOSIS

    Treatment is constitutional. The initial remedies include:
    • Lachesis for pain in the left ovary that is worse before periods, or to reduce lower abdominal pain premenstrually.




    • Calcarea for a dull aching pain in the lower back, left side of the groin or womb during periods.



    AYURVEDIC TREATMENTS FOR ENDOMETRIOSIS

    In Ayurveda, endometriosis is believed to be the result of a vata imbalance. To correct a vata imbalance, Ayurvedic practitioners recommend establishing a regular daily routine, reducing workload, increasing the rest and sleep, practicing meditation, and adding to the diet a little more oil, sweet tasting foods (but not refined sugars), salt, and cooked warm foods such as cereal and stews. It is important to maintain a biological rhythm. Go to bed at about 10 PM and rise at 6 AM. This is the time when the earth's energy complements human energy. A program to remove excess waste (ama) and detoxification is also useful. Drink plenty of warm to hot water; and avoid meat, cheese, caffeine, and alcohol. On the fourteenth or fifteenth day of the cycle, use a laxative of four or five teaspoons of castor oil or senna tea followed by a light diet for the rest of the day.

    For prevention of endometriosis, ayurvedic practitioners recommend that a woman reduce her activities as much as possible for the first three days of her period each month, though this might be unpractical to most busy women today. For exercise, a gentle walk is preferred over a jarring aerobics classes at this time.

    TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE (TCM)

    Chinese medical practitioners believe that endometriosis is due to blood stasis, qi stagnation, phlegm and dampness, damp heat, or some combination of these, but in turn this can be based on some organs being empty or not strong enough. It's almost always a combination of patterns, a concurrent insufficiency, or vacuity.

    The Chinese herbal treatment, when combined with acupuncture, can regulate the condition and stagnation of the blood which usually lies at the root of endometriosis.

    AROMATHERAPY

    Endometriosis adhesions may be reduced by oils of Rose, Chamomile, Lavender, Jasmine and Neroli. All of these have healing and antispasmodic action on the muscles and tissues.

    OSTEOPATHY

    Some osteopaths perform osteopathic techniques via the vagina to reduce certain types of endometrial adhesion. Osteopathic techniques may also be useful to encourage various drainage of the pelvis, reducing uterine congestion and relieving period pain.

    OTHER ALTERNATIVE THERAPIES FOR ENDOMETRIOSIS

  • Shiatsu Massage is useful in controlling the pain in endometriosis.


  • Rolfing can help by improving circulation, allowing more space around the reproductive organs and promoting relaxation.


  • Naturopathic Medicine: The stress here is on nutritional support and dietary detoxification programs.


  • Self-hypnosis can be useful to control endometrial pain and induce relaxation.


  • Relaxation techniques, including breathing are useful for combating pain associated with endometriosis. Biofeedback and self-hypnosis are two more natural approaches to try.

  • An acupressure massage on the back is an effective treatment for a woman in the throes of painful cramps. Rubbing a tender area located about an inch to the right of the spine about mid back will reduce pain after 30 seconds. In the majority of cases, the pain will completely subside after three or four more minutes of massage, and the treatment usually relieves menstrual cramps for three to six hours.


  • Exercise every day of the month can help prevent cramps in the first place. Anything that improves circulation-especially aerobic activities like jogging, walking, swimming and cycling-brings more oxygen to the blood and helps relax the uterus.

    MoonDragon's Health & Wellness: Endometrosis - Alternative Theory & Treatment



    ENDOMETRIOSIS SUPPLEMENTAL PRODUCTS

    Information on endometriosis, a chronic, progressive disease wherein cells that resemble those that line the uterus are found in other areas of the pelvis.

    Alfa Max, Alfalfa Extract, Nature's Way, 525 mg, 100 Caps

    Nature's Way Alfa-Max is much more digestible than raw alfalfa because the plant cellulose has been removed. Eight Alfa-Max capsules contain approximately 43% protein (by weight) and 2,600 IU of Vitamin A (as natural beta-carotene). Alfa-Max delivers 52% of the USRDA for vitamin A.
    All Organic Cotton Natracare Tampons Without Applicator, Regular Absorbency, 10 Per Carton

    All Organic Cotton Natracare Tampons Without Applicator, Super Absorbency, 10 Per Carton

    All Organic Cotton Natracare Tampons With Applicator, Regular Absorbency, 16 Per Carton

    All Organic Cotton Natracare Tampons With Applicator, Super Absorbency, 16 Per Carton

    All Organic Cotton Natracare Tampons Without Applicator, Regular Absorbency, 20 Per Carton

    All Organic Cotton Natracare Tampons Without Applicator, Super Absorbency, 20 Per Carton

    All Organic Cotton Natracare Tampons Without Applicator, Superplus Absorbency, 20 Per Carton

    Natracare tampons are made from only certified organic 100% cotton and are the only fully certified organic cotton tampons available in the world today.
    Choline and Inositol, 100% Natural, Nature's Way, 250 mg / 250 mg, 100 Caps

    Nature's Way Choline Inositol is 100 percent natural crystalline inositol and choline bound to tartaric acid for superior absorption.
    Dong Quai Root, Nature's Way, 565 mg, 100 Caps

    Dong Quai is often used in the treatment of menstrual cramps, or dysmenorrhea and PMS, hot flashes, and other menopausal symptoms. Dong Quai is thought to be more effective when used in traditional herb formulas, such as Dong Quai and Paeonia, and Bupleurum and Dong Quai, which are prescribed for treating certain menopausal symptoms, menstrual pain, fibrocystic breast disease, and pelvic inflammatory disease.
    Endometriosis Herb Formula Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz.

    Endometriosis herb formula for use with ovarian cysts. This formula is supportive for women who are at risk for endometriosis or who have endometriosis.
    Ginger Root Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz.

    Ginger Root helps to promote gastric secretions, thus aiding with food absorption and excellent for indigestion, flatulence, nausea (including travel sickness), and colic. Ginger root has also been recommended as a treatment for atherosclerosis, migraine headaches, rheumatoid arthritis, high cholesterol, burns, ulcers, depression, impotence, and liver toxicity.
    Magnesium Citrate Complex, Nature's Way, 250 mg, 100 Caps

    Nature's Way Magnesium Citrate is an advanced chelate form which enhances absorption of magnesium by providing excellent solubility.
    Menstrual Cramping Formula Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz.

    The Menstrual Cramping Formula was developed to help alleviate menstrual cramps. It contains eight beneficial herbs.
    Pain Formula Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz.

    Use the Pain Formula to alleviate pain naturally.
    PMS Formula w/ 5-HTP & Vitamin B-6, 100 Caps

    This formula represents the powerful synergy of current scientific research and traditional herbal medicine.
    Progesta, Natural Progesterone Cream, 2 oz.

    Progesta is a unique natural progesterone supplement that provides incredible feminine support for overall mental health, normal feminine cycles and more.
    Prostactive, Saw Palmetto W/ Nettle Root, 140 mg, 50 Softgels

    Prostactive Plus is a concentrated 12:1 extract made from the berries of the Saw Palmetto tree blended with Nettle Root extract, providing a unique synergistic effectiveness. This extract is a best selling Saw Palmetto product in Europe.
    Sage Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz.

    Sage is used as a mouthwash and gargle for mouth infections, bleeding gums and sore throats.
    Shepherds Purse Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz.

    Shepherd's Purse is mainly used to stop bleeding of all kinds.
    Soy Isoflavone Standardized Extract, 100 mg, 60 Caps

    Soy Isoflavone Extracts continue to gain popularity for their phytoestrogen isoflavones.
    U O Clear (Ovarian Cyst & Fibroid Support), 500 mg, 60 Caps

    The herbs work synergically to strengthen the body's natural capability of female systems self-cleaning functions, especially for uterus and ovary.
    Vitamin C 1000 with Bioflavonoids, Nature's Way, 100% Natural, 1000 mg, 250 VCaps

    Nature's Way Vitamin C with Bioflavonoids provides antioxidant protection for many of the body's important enzyme systems.
    Vitex Fruit (Chaste tree), 400 mg, 100 Caps

    Vitex is a woman's dietary supplement, traditionally used for menstrual difficulties. Vitex has been heavily researched in Europe. It is widely used to promote overall health and balance in a woman's life.
    What Your Doctor May Not Tell You About Menopause, The Breakthrough Book On Natural Hormone Balance, By John R. Lee M.D. & Virginia Hopkins

    Dr. Lee brings you lifesaving facts that even your doctor may not know about Premarin, Provera, and other HRT drugs; gives you an easy-to-follow non-prescription "Hormone Balance" program; and tells you how to stay energized, strong, sexually vigorous, and free from "female problems" before menopause, during the menopausal years, and beyond.
    What Your Doctor May Not Tell You About Premenopause, Balance Your Hormones & Your Life From Thirty to Fifty, By John R. Lee M.D. & Jesse Hanley, M.D.

    Presents a safe, revolutionary, non-prescription program to balance hormones, restore gynecological health, energy and sex drive and slow the aging process before menopause and even after.
    Wild Yam Root, Certified, 425 mg, 180 Caps

    Wild yam has many effective uses. It is known to relax the muscles and promote glandular balance in women. Wild Yam contains natural plant components known as phytochemicals which help the body balance hormone levels.
    Yeast Connection Handbook, By William Crook, M.D.

    This easy-to-follow Yeast Connection Handbook brings readers the latest information about yeast related disorders and how to overcome them.
    Zinc Ionic Mineral Supplement, Fully Absorbable, 100 +/- ppm, 16 fl. oz.

    WaterOz Ionic Zinc is a pure liquid Zinc supplement. Zinc moves through all the fluids in the body, it creates a defense against infection-causing bacteria and viruses trying to enter the body and stops bacterial and viral replication.


    Herbal Remedies: Endometriosis Information

    Herbal Remedies: Endometriosis Supplements & Products

    Herbal Remedies: Infertility (Female) Supplements, Information & Products

    Herbal Remedies: Menstrual Cramps Supplements, Information & Products



    LINKS

    MoonDragon's ObGyn Information: Endometriosis



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    HELPFUL PRODUCTS & FURTHER EDUCATION

  • Prescription for Nutritional Healing: The A-To-Z Guide To Supplements
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    -- by Phyllis A. Balch, James F. Balch - 4th Edition

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  • The Complete Guide to Natural Healing



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