A Holistic Health Approach to Endometriosis & Uterine Fibroids
Conditions like endometriosis and fibroids are incredibly common - yet often misunderstood, dismissed, or misdiagnosed. If you're experiencing pelvic pain, heavy bleeding, or a cycle that feels like it's ruling your life, you're not alone - and there is support.
Endometriosis and uterine fibroids are among the most common and most undermanaged conditions in women’s reproductive health. Despite affecting millions of women, both are frequently dismissed, misdiagnosed, or managed with approaches that address symptoms rather than causes. Most women will develop fibroids in their lifetime. However, they are not always large enough to cause an issue or any pain/discomfort.
Fibroids impact 26 women annually and can range in size from a pea to a melon. One of the complexities of fibroids is the variation in size as well as the multitude of symptoms that come along with them, such as irregular periods, heavy bleeding, blood clots, anemia, pelvic and back pain, the appearance of pregnancy, pain with sex, GI distress/discomfort, cramping, impacting quality of life and desire or ability to go out and do things/work.
Depending on the size of your fibroids as well as your symptoms, there are many options for managing them. A great deal of relief and healing can come from nutritional interventions, supplementation, and acupuncture.
Uterine Fibroids
Fibroids are non-cancerous growths of the uterus that affect up to 70 - 80% of women by age 50. While some remain small and symptomless, others can significantly disrupt daily life.
Symptoms may include:
Heavy, prolonged, or irregular periods
Blood clots or anemia
Pelvic or lower back pain
Abdominal distension (“looking pregnant”)
Pain during intercourse
Constipation, bloating, or urinary frequency
Fatigue and reduced quality of life
Fibroids can range in size - from a tiny seed to the size of a melon - and their impact often depends on their number, location, and growth rate.
Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a condition in which tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, commonly on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, bowel, or bladder. It is an estrogen-driven inflammatory condition that can be incredibly painful and emotionally taxing.
Common symptoms include:
Severe menstrual cramps
Pain with sex, urination, or bowel movements
GI symptoms like bloating, diarrhea, or constipation (often mistaken for IBS)
Infertility or difficulty conceiving
Chronic fatigue
Unfortunately, endometriosis often takes years to diagnose, and conventional treatment options like hormonal birth control or surgery don’t always address the root cause.
Causes of Endometriosis
The exact cause of endometriosis is not known, and although there are several theories about what causes this painful condition, no single theory has been scientifically proven. One of the most common theories is that endometriosis is linked to a process called retrograde menstruation, which occurs when menstrual blood flows back through your fallopian tubes into your pelvic cavity instead of leaving your body through the vagina. Endometriosis is also much more common when a close relative also has the disorder, so there may be a genetic link that influences endometriosis.
Effects of Endometriosis on Fertility
One of the main complications of endometriosis is impaired fertility. Approximately one-third to one-half of women with endometriosis have difficulty getting pregnant. Endometriosis may obstruct the fallopian tube and prevent the egg and sperm from uniting and in turn, fertilizing. The condition may also damage the sperm or egg. Even so, many with mild to moderate endometriosis can still conceive and carry a pregnancy to term, though doctors sometimes advise those with endometriosis not to delay having children due to the possibility of the condition worsening over time.
Our Holistic Approach to Addressing Entometriosis + Uterine Fibroids Naturally
At Dr. Lana Wellness, we look beyond symptom suppression and focus on rebalancing the body from within, addressing the hormonal, inflammatory, and detoxification imbalances that drive them, rather than simply masking the symptoms.
Our individualized care plans may include:
Anti-inflammatory nutrition to reduce pain and hormonal triggers
Targeted supplementation to support hormone detoxification and reduce estrogen dominance
Acupuncture to calm inflammation, ease pain, and regulate the menstrual cycle
Functional testing to assess hormone levels, nutrient status, and gut health
Environmental detox strategies to reduce exposure to xenoestrogens (e.g., plastics, personal care products)
Frequently Asked Questions About Endometriosis
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For many women, yes—especially when caught earlier or when surgery has been performed and the goal is to prevent recurrence. Naturopathic care focuses on reducing the estrogen-driven inflammation that feeds endometriosis tissue growth, supporting liver detoxification of excess estrogen, calming the immune response, and managing pain through targeted nutrition, supplementation, and acupuncture.
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An anti-inflammatory, plant-rich diet is associated with reduced fibroid growth. Foods high in fiber support estrogen clearance via the gut. Cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower, kale) contain DIM, a compound that supports healthy estrogen metabolism. Avoiding red meat, alcohol, and high-sugar foods may also help, as these can increase estrogen levels and inflammation.
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No. Uterine fibroids are almost always benign (non-cancerous) growths. Their significance depends on size, location, and whether they're causing symptoms. Many women have fibroids without knowing it—but when they cause pain, heavy bleeding, or other disruptions, they deserve proper attention and support.
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On average, endometriosis takes 7–10 years to diagnose in the United States. Many women are told their pain is normal, or are given the pill without proper investigation. We work alongside your gynecologist to advocate for appropriate diagnostic evaluation while simultaneously supporting your body's inflammatory and hormonal balance.
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Yes. Acupuncture is well-studied for pelvic pain management. It can reduce prostaglandin-driven cramping, calm the nervous system, improve pelvic blood flow, and support the body's anti-inflammatory response. Many of our patients experience significant pain reduction with regular acupuncture alongside dietary and supplement protocols.