How can I treat endometriosis naturally to get pregnant?

Endometriosis (en-doe-me-tree-O-sis) is an often painful disorder in which tissue similar to the tissue that normally lines the inside of your uterus — the endometrium — grows outside your uterus. Endometriosis most commonly involves your ovaries, fallopian tubes, and the tissue lining your pelvis. Rarely, endometrial-like tissue may be found beyond the area where pelvic organs are located.

How can I treat endometriosis naturally to get pregnant?

1. Heat

If your symptoms are acting up and you need relief, heat may help. Heat can relax the pelvic muscles, which can reduce cramping and pain. You can use warm baths, hot water bottles, or heating pads to help treat cramping.

2. OTC anti-inflammatory drugs

Over-the-counter (OTC) nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may offer relief from mild painTrusted Source caused by endometriosis. These drugs include ibuprofen and naproxen.

It’s best to talk with your doctor before taking NSAIDs if you’re taking other medications or if you have a history of stomach ulcers.

3. Bromelain

Bromelain is an enzyme found in pineapples that can also be taken as a supplement. Some research has found that bromelain in combination with the supplement N-acetyl cysteine and the antioxidant alpha lipoic acid significantly reduced pelvic pain from endometriosis.

More research is needed, particularly on bromelain’s effects on endometriosis on its own. If you choose to try bromelain supplements, it’s important to first check with your doctor as it may interact with some medications.

4. Turmeric

Turmeric has strong anti-inflammatory properties that may benefit people experiencing endometriosis symptoms.

Some research has found that curcumin, a compound in turmeric, may reduce endometriosis pain. It’s still unclear exactly how curcumin achieves this result, but it may reduce inflammation and inhibit the development of endometriosis.

You can take turmeric capsules or you can make turmeric tea using turmeric root or tea bags. Remember to talk with your doctor before taking turmeric or other new supplements.

5. Anti-inflammatory foods

More studies are needed on diet’s effects on endometriosis, but some researchTrusted Source indicates that an anti-inflammatory diet may help reduce pain. This won’t offer fast symptom relief, but it could help manage the endometriosis long-term.

By avoiding foods that cause inflammation and increasing foods with anti-inflammatory properties in your diet, you may be able to reduce symptoms in the future.

Inflammatory foods to eat less of include:

dairy
red meat
fried foods

Foods to increase include:

green tea
fatty fish
green leafy vegetables
berries
cherries
walnuts
olive oil
spices