Women’s health Resources

Endometriosis has a profound effect on quality of life of around one in ten women in the UK, mostly due to the pain and inflammation it causes. A diagnosis may not be immediate as the condition can mimic other problems, including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). By the time women have had a diagnosis, they are often desperate to try any treatment offered, frequently by non-qualified healthcare professionals. This article looks at evidence for and against certain diets and supplements offered for treating endometriosis and concludes that those that may work are ones that possibly help to reduce inflammation. More research is needed on how to help women with this condition, but the author warns that it probably will not be with certain supplements or diets that exclude certain foods, but rather with a holistic whole diet and lifestyle approach.

Endometriosis is a condition that is often accompanied by painful symptoms and can have profound effects on a woman’s fertility and quality of life. This article aims to raise awareness of this common but often undiagnosed condition and to provide general practice nurses (GPNs) with an overview of endometriosis, its diagnosis and management. After reading this article, GPNs will be better placed to spot the signs and symptoms of the condition, be able to provide women with information about the various treatment options available, and know when to refer women to secondary care.