Endometriosis, adenomyosis and fibroids.

These conditions can affect women at any stage in their reproductive lives and they can often be behind a disrupted and painful menstrual cycle. Unfortunately endometriosis, adenomyosis and uterine fibroids can also lead to infertility.

Detailed historical records show examples of herbal medicine being used for such gynaecological problems and plant extracts may help provide relief from the pain and heavy bleeding .

Both endometriosis and adenomyosis are caused by uterine tissue growing in places outside of the womb. In endometriosis this can be throughout the abdominal cavity and in adenomyosis it is in the muscular wall of the womb.  Scientific research suggests hormone imbalances and possibly poor immune function may have allowed stray uterine tissue to establish itself outside the womb.

The result usually is painful periods. Sharp, stabbing pains in the abdomen can be sometimes felt during the period and they can get worse towards the end of a period. Pain may be one-sided and there can also be pain before a period. Bowel movements can become painful. Periods are often heavy, especially in the first day or two.

Pre-menstrual tension is often experienced with breast soreness, fluid retention and irritability but these symptoms can also be accompanied by pain in the abdomen and occasionally elsewhere, such as down the legs.

Fibroids are balls of dense tissue which develop either inside the womb or in the muscular wall of the womb. They need not be painful but can lead to period problems, most commonly heavy bleeding. Occasionally the fibroids can press on the walls of the bladder and the bowel, leading to urinary problems and constipation. Fibroids rely on excess oestrogen to develop and so usually begin to shrink once a woman reaches the menopause.

Women across all parts of the world have used herbal medicine to help them with these conditions for thousands of years. Modern research has shown that the chemical structure of some plant extracts is very similar to some human hormones .

However, no two women are exactly alike and each herbal prescription is tailored to suit your particular needs.

Endometriosis, adenomyosis and fibroids are usually very uncomfortable but not a serious threat to health. However sudden changes in bleeding patterns and acute pain, especially on intercourse, should receive further medical investigation.