Endometriosis is a very common condition. Statistics reveal that approximately 15% of women in their reproductive years are affected; 10% is a more common guess. It is a condition where the endometrium (the lining of the uterus) is found in locations outside the uterus. Such misplaced tissue may be found in a variety of places close to the uterus, including the ovaries, uterus, bowel, bladder utero-sacral ligaments (ligaments that hold the uterus in place), or peritoneum (covering lining of the pelvis and abdominal cavity).

The causes of endometriosis is not yet fully known. There are quite a few theories, from genetics to toxic environment. Natural protocols should be focused on. Surgical intervention focuses on removal of endometrial tissues, while drug therapy focuses on balancing the hormonal picture with birth control pills.

Natural Non-toxic treatments include:

a. Dietary Changes. Many women reported some relief after avoidance of caffeine, sugar, and alcoholic beverages. A diet rich in whole and organically based foods is also helpful.

b. Soy Protein can also be helpful to provide phytoestrogen, which acts as a competitive inhibitor and reduces estrogen load. Natural progesterone cream also assists in this respect.

c. Borage oil or Evening Primrose Oil (EPO). This oil is an essential fatty acid and acts as an anti-inflammatory agent to rebalance the body's internal pool of prostaglandins, which are responsible for the stimulation and inhibition of smooth muscle tissue such as those found in the uterus, the intestines and the bladder. Borage oil is superior to EPO.

d. The B Complex Vitamins. These vitamins have been linked to breakdown estrogen in the body. They also improve emotional symptoms of endometriosis.

e. Vitamin E & Selenium. Inflammation is a key responsive action by the body.  When these two nutrients are taken together, they have been reported to decrease endometriosis-related inflammation. The use of Vitamin E should not exceed 400 IU due to some reports linking vitamin E with estrogen production.

f. Acupuncture/Acupressure. This treatment has received mixed reviews from women with endometriosis. For some, there is a relief of pain, probably due to the stimulation of endorphins ( internal aspirin of the body).