Best Products and Resources for Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a brutal health condition that affects 10% of uterus-havers. The symptoms that accompany the disease can be very burdensome. I figured it's only fair that I share some of the resources that have been helpful along my journey of Endo diagnosis, flare ups, and healing.

Semaine Health Products:

This is a bit of a newer addition to my routine, but still something I love nonetheless. Semaine Health is run by a husband-and-wife duo who are incredibly passionate and equally well-versed in the field of women's health. There is a multitude of products to choose from, ranging from PMS and period gummies to IBS support, etc. The ingredients are all natural, and super sustainable. Check out their products and use code Rachel_Ratelle at checkout for a discount!!

Acupuncture:

I have never been too fond of needles, ever since I was a young kid. I’d assume this distaste came to fruition as I was constantly seeing doctors to diagnose my stomach health issues, which required frequent shots, and blood tests. Flash forward to this year, post laparoscopic surgery, when my surgeon recommended acupuncture to assure the healing process ensued regularly. Regardless of if you’re thinking of receiving an acupuncture treatment post laparoscopic surgery or if you have not received a surgery at all, acupuncture poses great benefits. Acupuncture provides better blood flow, especially to sites within the body that are inflamed, releases tension and stress, improves ovulation, and engages the parasympathetic nervous system (aids in release of healthy brain chemicals). 

Low inflammatory diet:

I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but some of our favorite foods and drinks are in fact not the best for us Endo babes. Dairy is one of the worst things to consume while struggling with Endometriosis as dairy contains a lot of estrogen, amongst other hormones and nutrients that add to inflammation levels. Gluten is also considered a highly inflammatory food, as many of us have probably heard from some book, doctor, or health-junky family friend or relative. Alcohol increases estrogen levels, so I bid margaritas farewell quite quickly after my diagnosis. All this being said, there certainly are foods and drinks that can cause inflammation and stress to the body’s state, especially for someone battling a chronic health condition like Endometriosis. However, that doesn’t mean you can NEVER have any of these ever again. Life is ultimately about living intentionally, but also enjoying yourself and others. If that means you’ve found yourself at the wedding of your long term best friend’s, and the bartender also just so happens to be serving your favorite alcoholic beverage, let loose and have a drink babe. And if you’re like me, where you are totally fine doing the worm sober in any bar, then let alcohol take the backseat of your automobile of nutritional consumption. At the end of the day it is YOUR body. Play around with different foods and figure out what regimen works best for you. No body is entirely the same, though consistency often goes a long way with Endometriosis. 

Mild-moderate exercise:

Exercise has been proven to help regulate endometrial lesions and the potential for endometriosis to grow back. Keeping the muscles and tissues regularly activated assures things don’t get all rusty and stagnant. This category of care also depends on the level of discomfort you experience with endometriosis, the stages of your cycle, etc. 

Here are a few examples of exercises I have found to be helpful:

• Dancing - west coast swing, jazz, interpretive, in your room with your airpods blaring “22” by Taylor Swift, whatever feels right :)

• Swimming 

• Walking - or as I like to say, “Hot Girl Walking” with my dog!

• Surfing 

• Roller Skating 

• LIIT workouts

• Light Hikes

• Pilates 

• Yoga 

• Light Jogging 
  

Meditation/yoga:

I could genuinely write a 10 page dissertation on all of the benefits of these 2 practices, but for both of our sakes, I will limit my writing to a few sentences LOL. Meditation is proven to lower anxiety and stress levels, as well as set the mind and body up for success by providing a solid foundation. Practicing intentional breathing, thinking, affirmations, and presence affects how we move and interact throughout our days. As for yoga, there tends to be similar results, but with more of a focus on intentional movement and connection between the body and mind. This mind-body connection can help strengthen your awareness and intuition towards your body’s cues and signs. 

Pelvic floor therapy:

Listen, when I heard what pelvic floor therapy was, I think my jaw dropped for easily a minute straight. But when I tell you that pelvic floor therapy has worked wonders for me, I genuinely mean it. It definitely is important to find a therapist that you’re comfortable with and knows what you’re dealing with physically. The amount of information I learned about the pelvic floor and my pelvic muscles in general was so informative, I feel like everyone could learn a great deal from this type of therapy. Endometriosis can typically be found on or near the pelvis, so receiving extra attention in those areas can be crucial.

Heating pad:

If you have endometriosis, I’m sure you’re well aware of the glory that is a heating pad. My heating pad is my holy grail. I bring some sort of heating pad with me everytime I leave the house. The heat generated can reduce cramping and loosen muscles, overall reducing pain ideally. 

Peppermint Oil:

One of my most frequent symptoms has been nausea and digestive problems. If this sounds like you, I would recommend having a little bottle of digestible peppermint essential oil. Peppermint can be a helpful additive to your routine as it is known to calm and relax the body/muscles. Click here for one of the specific essential oil brands I use from Amazon!

Glutamine Powder:

One of the common attributes of Endometriosis includes a weakened immune system. This makes for more brutal symptoms with viral infections, common colds, etc. There also seems to be a strong link between Endometriosis and persistent gut issues amongst most of us. A relatively common supplement to help with gut structure and health is Glutamine powder. The supplement works to improve immune system function and assists in providing extra glutamine to the body when the body is under immense stress. I took this supplement for like 3 years in high school and definitely noticed promising results. Since my symptoms have returned with raging fury, I’ve decided to resume my glutamine routine. 

Cupping: 

Have you ever watched the olympics and noticed how some of the swimmers have those giant reddish, purplish circles on their backs/shoulders, and wondered wtf is that? Because me too. Turns out the cupping aids in the decompression of muscles and tissues through the suction sensation between the cups and your skin, increasing blood flow to the targeted areas. Click here for the specific cupping products I use from Amazon, as well as the eco-friendly lotion to help with the suctioning affect from the cups.

All in all, different routines work for different people. I’m sure there are lots more resources out there to utilize, but ultimately it takes a little bit of experimentation and trial and error. I am in no way a registered or licensed doctor or practitioner, but I am an Endo warrior who has done an extensive amount of research and practically defined the concept of trial and error. If you have any questions, absolutely reach out!! We’re stronger together, even when we suffer individually. Wherever this post finds you, stay strong, and be patient with yourself. Every step you take is one step closer to new horizons.

As you dance through life, choose to be kind,

To your aching body and your tired mind.

My struggles may not be yours, nor yours mine,

But I’ll always be here to RAYS YOUR VIBE. 

Ray