Endometriosis & Effects On Skin

Endometriosis is a gynaecological disorder that affects up to 10% of women of reproductive age and is one of the most common causes of female infertility.

This disorder causes tissue similar to the lining of the uterus (endometrium) to grow outside the uterus. This tissue can attach to various organs in the pelvic cavity, including the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and the lining of the pelvis.

While endometriosis is commonly known for its impact on the reproductive system, it can also affect the skin.

The most common skin symptoms of endometriosis are in fact related to chronic inflammatory and stress responses which can exasperate inflammatory skin conditions such as acne, rosacea and dermatitis.

Cause Of Endometriosis
The exact cause of endometriosis is unknown, but there are several theories of the progression of its development:

Retrograde menstruation
During menstruation, some endometrial tissue may flow backward through the fallopian tubes and implant itself in the pelvic cavity. When endometrial tissue bleeds outside the uterus (retrograde menstruation), the body’s immune system mistakenly identifies it as foreign and launches an inflammatory response. This ongoing response contributes to chronic inflammation.

Cell transformation
Cells lining the pelvic cavity may transform into endometrial-like tissue.

Immune System Dysfunction
Studies suggest that women with endometriosis might have an underlying immune system imbalance that make them more prone to chronic inflammation.

The immune system is unable to ‘clean up’ endometriosis and so the cycle of inflammation continues as the body attempts to inflame and heal the area. Over time, this results in more scar tissue, which causes further damage by sticking to organs and inflaming areas of the pelvis.

Endometrial Implants
The endometrial tissue itself can produce inflammatory molecules, further fuelling the local inflammatory response in the pelvic area.

Scarring
Surgical interventions for endometriosis can lead to scar tissue formation, which can also trigger inflammation.

Chronic Inflammation
Chronic inflammation is one of the key features of endometriosis and plays a significant role in its development and symptoms.

Chronic inflammation occurs when the body feels under threat by a trauma or invasion that can’t be healed, like endometriosis.

Endometriosis by its very nature is a chronic inflammatory disease.

Chronic Stress
Chronic stress can contribute to chronic inflammation and hormonal imbalances which can exasperate the endometriosis symptoms as well as inflammatory skin concerns.

Symptoms Of Endometriosis
Women with endometriosis can experience physical symptoms such as pelvic pain, which can be uncomfortable and can lead to feelings of frustration and low self-esteem.

The most common symptoms of endometriosis include:

• Pelvic pain, especially during menstrual periods and ovulation
• Painful intercourse
• Heavy or irregular menstrual bleeding
• Painful bowel movements or urination during menstrual periods
• Infertility
• Fatigue
• Bloating
• Stress related issues
• Inflammatory skin concerns; acne, rosacea, dermatitis

Emotionally, women with endometriosis may experience depression, anxiety, and low mood. They may also feel overwhelmed, hopeless, struggle with body image issues, and feel unable to cope with symptoms that can be difficult to manage or change. Additionally, the emotional impact of infertility can cause feelings of sadness, grief, and isolation.

Diagnosis of Endometriosis
If you think you may be experiencing symptoms of endometriosis, it’s important to speak to a doctor to ensure that any potential problems are addressed as soon as possible. They can help to diagnose and treat the condition, as well as provide you with the support and resources you need to manage them.

There is no single test for endometriosis. Diagnosis may involve pelvic exam, ultrasound, MRI and laparoscopy. Sadly, on average it can take up to 7 years for a completed diagnosis.

Treatments For Endometriosis
Although there is no cure for endometriosis, there are treatments available that can help manage the symptoms, reduce the risk of long-term complications and improve quality of life.

The best treatment for endometriosis depends on each individual and their symptoms. Lifestyle changes, dietary modifications, regular physical activity, along with some natural remedies, holistic treatments and medical interventions can help to reduce symptoms.

Follow an anti-inflammatory diet. Eat foods to support your gut microbiome, avoid trans fats, sugar, alcohol, processed meat and foods and for some people, certain allergens like gluten. Antioxidants found in healthy foods counter-act the inflammatory process.

Seek a healthy holistic lifestyle. Exercise or move daily, take time out, aim for 8 hours of sleep at night and avoid smoking.

Stress management strategies are recommended to help regulate hormones and reduce inflammation, thus reduce endometriosis symptoms. Taking measures to manage stress with cortisol-lowering practices such as yoga and meditation are very helpful.

Medications, such as hormonal therapy such as birth control pills, progestin-only therapy, or other hormonal medications can help regulate menstrual cycles and suppress endometrial tissue growth.

In some cases, surgery may be recommended to remove the cysts from the ovaries or destroy endometrial tissue implants. In severe cases, a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) or oophorectomy (removal of the ovaries) may be necessary.

Over-the-counter pain relievers or prescription pain medication can help relieve pain.

Skin Care Treatments
The stress response can trigger the stimulation of excess oil in the hair follicles as well as inflammatory reactions where skin conditions such as acne, redness and irritation can occur. Seek a professional skin aesthetician to assess your skin condition and treat accordingly.

With over 35+ years, The Emporium Treatment Clinic senior aesthetician, Angela is able to help you to take the appropriate measures. So why not pop in and visit us in Marylebone, London, or call if you feel you need a consultation.

Some of the treatments that might be suitable are; Bespoke Facial, Skin Storm Hydrafacial, Green Peel® Herbal Peeling, Blemiderm Acne Skin Peel, Chemical Skin Peel to target specific skin concerns and Laser Skin Care treatments.

Holistic Treatments
A holistic treatment is a form of approach that considers the whole person, body, mind, emotions, and spirit in the quest for optimal health and wellness. Treatments include acupuncture, massage therapies, herbal medicine to name but a few.

It’s also important to remember that you’re not alone. There are many support networks and resources available for those living with endometriosis to help you cope. These can help to provide emotional support and understanding, which can be invaluable in managing the condition.

Expert Advisors
We Can Support You!

Here at Emporium Treatment Clinic in Marylebone, we provide expert advice in skincare for home use or professional in-clinic treatments.

In addition to the Emporium Treatment Clinic core practice, selected elite independent practitioners provide an array of health, nutrition & wellness services and treatments.

Our team of experts combine a wealth of knowledge, and have collaborated to provide the ultimate synergy of diverse strategies to provide you not only with a clearer, glowing complexion but, most importantly, to nurture health and well-being from within.

Treatments are available at the Emporium Treatment Clinic, Marylebone, London. Contact Angela for any advice 07930661971.

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Author: Angela Taffinder the founder of Emporium Treatment Clinic. A practising Aesthetician for 35+ years, holistic and wellbeing advocate and yoga instructor. The creator of Yoga & Vitality.