Does Endometriosis Disappear After Menopause?

Endometriosis is more than a painful period. It can also result in fertility problems. It happens when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside of it and can affect other organs, such as the bladder and bowel. The challenging aspect of endometriosis is that these endometrial lesions can appear anywhere in the body, leading to confusion and misunderstandings about the condition.

The exact cause of endometriosis is unknown, but experts believe it involves genetic, hormonal, and immune system factors. Shockingly, it takes an average of eight years from the onset of symptoms to receive a diagnosis. This condition is tough and costs the UK economy £8.2bn annually in treatment, loss of work, and healthcare costs.

One in ten women in the UK have endometriosis. Although there is no definitive cure, there are many natural remedies that can help manage symptoms and avoid life-changing surgery.

Symptoms of endometriosis 

• Severe period pain that impacts normal daily activities 
• Nausea during the period 
• Pain during and after intercourse 
• Bloating 
• Headaches 
• Bowel issue that may look like IBS
• Painful urination 
• Fatigue
• Anxiety and depression 

Symptoms of endometriosis in perimenopause 

• Severe period pain that impacts normal daily activities 
• Nausea during the period 
• Pain during and after intercourse 
• Bloating 
• Headaches 
• Bowel issue that may look like IBS
• Painful urination 
• Frequent urination, particularly during the night 
• Fatigue
• Brain fog 
• Anxiety and depression  

Tests to consider 

• Progesterone 
• SHBG
• CA125 
• Full Iron Panel 
• Full Thyroid Panel 
• C-reactive Protein 
• DUTCH Test due to oestrogen dominance

Three not-so-common myths about endometriosis 

Myth 1: Endometriosis goes away after menopause

Contrary to popular belief, endometriosis does not always disappear after menopause. Why? Because it is a systemic disease and therefore, even though the hormonal changes associated with menopause may alleviate symptoms for some women, the condition still persists after menopause. 

Myth 2: Painful periods are 'normal'

While it is common to experience some discomfort during menstruation, however severe pelvic pain, especially to the extent that it interferes with daily activities, is not normal. Painful periods could be a symptom of underlying conditions such as endometriosis or adenomyosis and must be investigated. 

Myth 3: Hysterectomy will cure endometriosis

Although a hysterectomy can be helpful and welcoming for many, it's important to remember that it's not a guaranteed cure. Because endometriosis occurs when endometrial-like tissue grows outside the uterus, a hysterectomy alone can not remove all of this tissue. Some women still experience symptoms even after a hysterectomy if the condition has spread to other areas.  

Natural ways to manage symptoms 

Because endometriosis is often associated with oestrogen dominance and inflammation due to the imbalance between oestrogen and progesterone levels, it can exacerbate the growth of endometrial-like tissue, contributing to chronic inflammation and exacerbating its symptoms. Following an anti-inflammatory diet and nutritional strategies is key. 

• Elimination of trigger foods: Some women find relief from endometriosis symptoms by eliminating dairy, gluten, sugar, and eggs from their diet, as these foods are known to trigger inflammation in some individuals.
• Add anti-inflammatory supplements: Anti-inflammatory supplements such as milk thistle, N-acetylcysteine (NAC), zinc, omega-3 and resveratrol into the diet may help mitigate the inflammation associated with endometriosis.
• Supporting gut microbiome: Consuming foods that support gut health, such as turmeric, plantains, bananas, nuts, flaxseed, chia seeds, berries, and leafy green vegetables, and consider taking supplements to support gut microbiome and mucosal barriers L-Glutamine that will contribute to overall immune and inflammatory balance.

Stress management techniques

• Mindfulness and self-hypnosis: Practicing mindfulness and self-hypnosis can help alleviate stress and manage the emotional impact of living with endometriosis.
• Physical Activity: Engaging in activities like walking and regular exercise can aid in stress reduction and overall wellbeing.
• Nostril breathing: Practice nostril breathing daily to reset your hormones, clear brain fog, increase energy levels, and encourage good sleep.

As you can see, endometriosis is a complex condition requiring a multifaceted management approach. It is not only a condition that solely impacts gynaecological; it's far-reaching and is layered with an altered immune response, hormonal imbalances and genetics; for women in perimenopause, symptoms can be challenging with the added fluctuating hormones during this transition. 

It is important to debunk false beliefs so that you can have complete knowledge about your health and adopt a holistic approach that incorporates anti-inflammatory and nutrient-rich stress management tools to efficiently manage the symptoms of endometriosis that will enhance the quality of your life today and in the future, even after menopause.