Hormones in both men and women have numerous responsibilities ranging from managing metabolism to body temperature to the reproductive system. Stress, environment, lifestyle changes, trauma and other health conditions can all have an impact on whether or not hormones stay balanced.

Estrogen and progesterone are the two main female sex hormones. Estrogen is primarily used in the development of female anatomy, in menstruation and in reproduction. However, some women suffer from estrogen dominance, which could contribute to a condition called endometriosis.

If you suffer from ailments related to hormonal imbalance or endometriosis, we can help. We use an array of diagnostic testing to help establish a detailed assessment of what your body requires when it comes to healing and reversing the impacts of endometriosis.

 

Schedule an Appointment

 

What is endometriosis?

Endometriosis is a common health condition where tissue that is normally in the lining of the uterus starts to grow on the outside of the uterus, on the fallopian tubes, ovaries, near the pelvis or other parts of the body. When the lining of the uterus breaks down during menstruation, it now has nowhere to dissolve into. This can cause moderate to severe pain during menstrual periods and other symptoms.

Endometriosis is predominately an estrogen-dependent condition that is most commonly diagnosed in women who are in their 30s and 40s. The higher amount of estrogen a woman has, the worse endometriosis symptoms are.

 

What are the symptoms of endometriosis?

Symptoms of endometriosis include:

  • Painful periods
  • Pain during sex
  • Abnormal periods
  • Pelvic pain
  • Constipation or diarrhea
  • Infertility
  • Fatigue
  • Anxiety or depression

 

What are the symptoms of estrogen dominance?

Symptoms of estrogen dominance include:

  • Weight gain
  • Bloating
  • Mood swings
  • Depression
  • Headaches
  • Heavy menstrual periods
  • Fibrocystic breasts
  • Decreased sex drive
  • Trouble sleeping

 

Diagnosis

If you experience symptoms of endometriosis and/or estrogen dominance, ask your physician for more information.

Initial diagnostic tests for hormonal imbalances include:

  • Blood test: Estrogen, progesterone, follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), testosterone/DHEA and thyroid hormones
  • Pelvic exam
  • Ultrasound

 

What are the treatments of endometriosis?

Some of the more common treatments of endometriosis are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, hormone therapy or worst-case scenario, surgery.

 

Functional Medicine and Clinical Nutrition

At Aligned Modern Health, we offer natural, non-invasive treatment options for endometriosis that seek to heal the root cause of  endometriosis. Using a Functional Medicine approach, we work on a foundational level to reverse inflammation and oxidative damage, while also supporting healthy hormone balance. Additional key nutritional considerations are employed in treatment as we target, customized therapies that emphasize an anti-inflammatory diet and increased levels of antioxidants and phytonutrients.

 

Acupuncture for endometriosis

Our patients also find that acupuncture is effective in support for hormonal balance, regulation of the menstrual cycle, and reducing other symptoms caused by endometriosis.

If you are considering acupuncture or functional medicine in your treatment of endometriosis, our integrative team is   ready to help you unlock your body’s amazing potential to heal and thrive.

To learn more, or to schedule an appointment for any of our services, fill out the form below.

Schedule

Please fill out the form to request an appointment at our health and wellness center for the service and location of your preference. We try to get back to all requests as quickly as possible. If you need immediate assistance, please call 773-598-4387.

Location Service Preferred Time

Your safety comes first: we are operating with heightened safety measures in our clinics and offer telemedicine for those unable to visit in person.