Hormone Health
Endometriosis and the immune system connection
What is endometriosis? Endometriosis is defined as a complex, full body inflammatory condition driven by immune dysfunction and chronic inflammation.
To better understand this, here's some context:
Endometriosis tissue is similar to that of the endometrial lining. However, it grows outside of the uterus and depending on the individual, it can be found near the fallopian tubes, the ovaries, the bladder, on the bowel, and in some cases, on the lungs. It can be tied to genetics, blood sugar, compromised gut health, estrogen dominance, and mitochondrial anomalies. While endometriosis research is still limited, there is growing interest around endometriosis and the relationship to immune dysfunction and bacterial toxins. The immune connection explained: Endometriosis tissue that is present in body creates chronic inflammation. Why? Because there is an increasing amount of immune cells produced by the body in an effort to clear the “invader." Simply put, the immune system goes on high alert because it does not recognize the tissue - and in an effort to manage this, it mounts quite a response.
Unfortunately, despite the body’s best efforts to protect itself, the tissue can’t be cleared like this. This results in a chronic and maladaptive immune response. And, the immune system becomes progressively more dysfunctional in this environment.
When the gut barrier is compromised, bacterial contamination also plays a role. And with poor circulation and detoxification problems likely already present, these issues together can further complicate the condition.
What should you do if you suspect endometriosis?
The most important thing is to get a good care team together. This can look like a combination of:
1. A functional medicine practitioner that is well versed in immune dysfunction or has experience supporting endometriosis patients
2. A women's hormone health focused nutritionist that has experience with endometriosis cases
3. An herbalist and acupuncturist 4. An OBGYN or reproductive endocrinologist
5. A reproductive mental health expert While it is difficult to diagnose endometriosis without an MRI and laparoscopy, there are some non-invasive tests available that may help inform a well-trained practitioner on how to approach your care. Here are some places to get started: If you're already working with a reproductive endocrinologist, you can speak to them about the ReceptivaDx test. This tests looks at BCL6 which is a marker associated with endometriosis. Note that this will require an endometrial biopsy. If you're working with a nutritionist or functional medicine doctor, talk to them about their experience with immune testing, vaginal microbiome testing, and GI testing. While these are not diagnostic tools, they can provide data points that can help your practitioner support your overall system.
You can also speak to your reproductive endocrinologist or licensed medical professional about laparoscopic surgery. Make sure you understand any risks of the procedure and whether laparoscopic surgery is right for you. If you need support finding trusted resources to educate yourself on this topics, please reach out. How can I support my body in the meantime?
There are very complex and cyclical immune and chemical processes at play when it comes to both the development and progression of endometriosis. That is why your first step should be building a licensed medical team with experience in endometriosis care.
Next, talk to your medical team about how to improve gut health, how to support detoxification and liver health, and how to better manage blood sugar. Increasing movement for improved circulation, eliminating environmental toxins, and focusing on nervous system support are also essential. There are specific programs tailored to vagus support which can be very helpful. There are also specific IVF protocols to address endometriosis prior to embryo transfer, so be sure to discuss this with your entire care team once you have a proper diagnosis. If you want to consult with trusted experts in this area, I'm here to support you through a 1:1 session.
