How hormones impact endometriosis (and why addressing inflammation matters more)
If you live with endometriosis, you’ve likely heard about hormones like oestrogen and progesterone and their role in this condition. While hormones play a significant role in endometriosis, it’s important to remember that endometriosis is primarily an inflammatory disease. Understanding how hormones affect your body is essential, but the key to managing endometriosis lies in reducing inflammation.
Let’s explore the role of hormones in endometriosis and why focusing on inflammation can make a significant difference.
The menstrual cycle and hormones
Your menstrual cycle is typically divided into two main phases: the follicular phase (day 1 of your period to ovulation) and the luteal phase (from ovulation to the first day of your next period). Each phase is characterized by different hormonal changes:
- Follicular phase:
- Oestrogen levels start low but gradually rise, peaking just before ovulation.
- This rise in oestrogen thickens the uterine lining (endometrium) in preparation for a potential pregnancy. Unfortunately, for those with endometriosis, this same hormone stimulates the growth and thickening of endometrial-like tissue outside the uterus.
- This can lead to pain, particularly during ovulation, as the growing tissue reacts to hormonal changes.
- Luteal phase:
- After ovulation, progesterone levels increase to support the uterine lining. However, in endometriosis, this hormone also thickens endometrial-like tissue, contributing to discomfort.
- Both oestrogen and progesterone levels drop before your period, signalling the shedding of the uterine lining and the endometriosis tissue. This shedding can result in significant pain and inflammation.
The role of oestrogen in endometriosis
Oestrogen is a major player in endometriosis. Interestingly, research shows that endometriosis lesions can produce their own oestrogen, further fuelling their growth. Elevated oestrogen levels not only exacerbate pain and inflammation but also contribute to premenstrual symptoms like irritability, anxiety, and depression.
High oestrogen levels also trigger the release of prostaglandins, which cause uterine contractions. For those with endometriosis, this can mean extra painful cramping, especially if you also have adenomyosis (a condition where endometrial tissue grows within the uterine muscle).
Why progesterone matters
Progesterone, often referred to as the “calming” hormone, balances oestrogen’s effects. However, many individuals with endometriosis either have low progesterone levels or insufficient progesterone to counterbalance high oestrogen levels. This imbalance can worsen mood swings and exacerbate endometriosis symptoms.
Hormone metabolism and your body’s detox systems
Once hormones like oestrogen have done their job, your body needs to metabolize and excrete them. This process relies on your liver and kidneys to convert oestrogen into a water-soluble form that can be eliminated. If these systems don’t function optimally, excess oestrogen may remain in your body, adding to your hormonal load and worsening symptoms.
Here’s where the gut plays a surprising role: the gut microbiome helps regulate hormone metabolism. A healthy gut supports the liver’s ability to process hormones effectively. However, those with endometriosis often experience gut issues like leaky gut, which impairs nutrient absorption and contributes to chronic inflammation. Without adequate nutrients, your body struggles to metabolize hormones efficiently, perpetuating a cycle of hormonal imbalance and inflammation.
How physical activity helps
Physical activity is a powerful tool for managing hormone levels. Regular movement, such as walking or light exercise, reduces circulating oestrogen levels and has been shown to alleviate premenstrual symptoms. Incorporating physical activity, especially in the luteal phase, can also help slow the growth of endometriosis tissue by lowering free oestrogen levels.
Why reducing inflammation is crucial
Hormones undoubtedly influence endometriosis, but inflammation is the driving force behind its progression. Inflammatory processes increase blood flow to endometriosis lesions, providing them with the nutrients they need to grow. By addressing inflammation, you create an environment where endometriosis is less likely to thrive.
Key strategies to reduce inflammation include:
- Healing your gut: supporting gut health improves nutrient absorption and hormone metabolism. Here is an article about improving your gut health.
- Optimising your diet: ensuring you get the nutrients your body needs to balance hormones and fight inflammation.
- Staying active: movement supports hormone regulation and reduces systemic inflammation.
By focusing on inflammation and supporting your body’s natural processes, you can better manage endometriosis and improve your overall well-being.
To discuss how we can tweak your current diet to reduce inflammation and reduce your Endometriosis symptoms, book a complimentary Endometriosis SOS Call now.