ENDOMETRIOSIS
Endometriosis is a painful gynecological condition where the tissue that lines the inside of the uterus has grown outside of the uterus. Areas of growth are typically on the ovaries, the fallopian tubes, and the abdomen but have also been found elsewhere in the body. It is important to note that some women have endometriosis and are asymptomatic (without symptoms).However, the severity of pain is not a good indicator of the severity of the disease. Women with widespread endometriosis that are more superficial in nature may have less pain than a woman who has only one or two deeper implants. Endometrial tissue respond to the same hormonal shifts that trigger the menstrual cycle, so endometriosis follows the same cycle as a woman’s period. A conclusive reason for the exact cause of endometriosis has not yet been established, but there are many components that appear to be contributing factors such as genetics, a poorly functioning immune system, excess estrogen, and inflammation. One theory is retrograde menstruation where menstrual blood containing epithelial cells flows back up through the fallopian tubes and into the pelvic cavity instead of flowing out of the body.
The Functional Medicine approach would be to evaluate multiple systems such as hormone levels, immune function, the ability of the liver to detoxify, food intolerances or sensitivities that may be causing inflammation, toxicities, and dysbiosis in the gut. Once the imbalances have been found, a specific individualized plan will be formulated by Dr. Williams to address all contributing factors.