My Art and Endometriosis Story

My Endometriosis and Art story 

I am a Costa Rican-American artist. I have been painting and drawing since I could pick up a crayon at the age of 3. Because I was able to draw and paint much more realistically than my counterparts my parents encouraged and supported my talents by placing me in private art classes. I eventually made it to AP ART my senior year of high school. I then went to Baylor University with an art scholarship. 

I attended Baylor University initially double majoring in Studio Art and Biology, two very demanding majors. This was about the time my endometriosis pain started to hit full force. Causing me to have to graduate a year late. On top of the physical pain I was enduring, academically I was finding college art (or maybe more specifically Baylor art classes) a bit limiting and constraining; and ended up completely turning away from art all together. So like most fickle college students, I ended up switching my major and I dropped art. 

Upon graduating in 2005, I entered the corporate world and for 6 years I was relatively successful but in the back of my mind, I knew something was seriously wrong. I continued month after month to feel the intense progressively worsening pain of my Endometriosis. The type of pain that would render me useless unable to do anything more than sit in a fetal position with a heating bad, popping Advil like candy. My career was thriving but my health was at an all-time low, the pain getting more and more intense. That was about the time I was finally diagnosed with Stage IV Endometriosis after seeing at least 10 different medical specialist over a span of 8 years and all of them telling me it wasn't endometriosis. My diagnosis led to many major, extensive surgeries. (One of those surgeries being an 8 hours laparotomy which included endometriosis and extensive adhesions getting excised from every surface of my pelvic cavity plus two bowel resections) After that major surgery I was forced to retire early from the corporate world, both my husband and I agreeing I should concentrate on my health. 

While painfully and agonizingly convalescing for a year, I was able to do some deep profound soul searching, ultimately leading me to pick up a paintbrush again after almost 8 years. Initially my art was for therapeutic and healing purposes, later evolving on its own into an unexpected career.  Since 2011, I have been trying to pursue art as a full time career and I am loving it. I owe so much gratitude and appreciation to my husband who is allowing me to do what I do.

Presently, my husband and I are on a difficult but hopeful journey in trying to conceive after heart achingly enduring many miscarriages these last couple of years. Since my endometriosis was diagnosed in 2010, meaning it went undiagnosed for over 13 years, the destruction from this benign cancer-like disease wreaked havoc on my reproductive organs. The delay in diagnosis is probably the primary reasons for my recurrent miscarriages.

To fully grasp me as an artist you have to learn specific aspects of my life & personality; my obsessive love of color, my innately introverted personality, my tragic experiences of being a child sexual abuse victim, my present fight against Stage IV Endometriosis (a disease that affects 6% of the women in the world, with the two most common symptoms being extreme pain and/or infertility), my recurrent miscarriages as a result from endometriosis and my lifestyle choice to be a vegan and live as holistically and organically as possible, also as a result of my endometriosis. Going vegan and eating a cleaner diet has done wonders for myself and many other women suffering with the pain of endometriosis. 

Through being vulnerable, raw and transparent in my art, I hope to be able to reach others struggling through the same issues and/or find common ground with others who share my same lifestyle philosophies. Hopefully showing them they are not alone. But, probably more importantly, my art is for me; to help me cope with the past, appreciate the present and be hopeful for the future.

Because of my introverted personality my art serves as my voice. My art is truly a way that I expose my soul to the world without caution or reservation; two things that I sometimes possess too much of. My art defines my entire being. It makes me who I am. It allows me to create. But not JUST to create but to create through letting go, letting go of over-analyzing, letting go of the pain, the guilt, the insecurities, the unforgiveness brought on by being one of those 1 out of 10 women with endometriosis. And in turn, letting in that which simply. is. Accepting with gratitude and joy my present. My art comes from deep within me, a deep, raw and visceral place I usually only visit when creating. 

Yes, I have had to endure some pretty tragic and earth-shattering things but because of all that I was able to find my power through the power in art, in creating, that helped me cope and heal in unimaginable ways, in ways only God could heal. I discovered that through my art, through the process of creating, I directly connect with God, the ultimate creator. Never do I feel more in tune with God, more present, more at peace, then when I am creating. Though, I would never want others to go through what I went through or am presently going through, I am proud of my past and present; and what I have overcame and will overcome. I would not change anything that has happened to me because it’s made me exactly who I am today, the sensitive artist I am today. How could I fully appreciate and be grateful for the multi-colored bursts of joy-filled experiences that have been beautifully sprinkled throughout my life, without also experiencing those dark and desperate times? After all, only when it is dark enough, do you see the stars.

My work may appear random at first, but upon closer inspection there is a common thread of exemplifying the beautifully chaotic. All my work encompasses equal parts of planning and spontaneity; a mix of direct and indirect intention, chance and circumstances. I believe this allows me to constantly be exploring new and different avenues for my work. I believe an artist should not limit themselves by technique or medium. This allows the opportunity for my art, the basic essence of my art to shine through, rather than merely my need to control. I attempt to manifest through conscious and subconscious color choice and stroke, that which is not seen with the naked eye: emotions, imaginations, faith, the soul...

My ultimate goal is to create an interesting work of art that engages people to debate their own interpretations through creating a meaningful dialogue, whether they become a fan or a critic. 

My purpose in life is simple: to create.... but beyond merely creating visual art, I know my ultimate creation will be when I create life

The 11x14 3D shadowbox art is titled “Endometriosis” (PHOTO 1) I deconstructed my original watercolor cutting out the main pieces then built them up in the shadow box. I pierced and wrapped real wire making sure to penetrate the uterus and snake it around the waist and arms in an effort to depict the overwhelming constraint we feel physically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually. I used the red wax I originally used to seal our wedding invitations 6 years ago by dripping it on both the actual watercolor and the frame to mimic blood.

My husband and I agreed that the 3D piece will not be for sale BUT I did create an illustrative interpretation print that is for sale and is PHOTO 2.

You can find that print for sale here:

https://www.etsy.com/listing/125348785/8x10-print-of-original-endometriosis?ref=shop_home_active_19

___________________________

Please take some time to check out 

My Instagram: 

www.instagram.com/geordannatheartist

My Saatchi Art profile:

www.saatchiart.com/geordannatheartist

And My Website: 

www.geordannatheartist.com

#endometriosisawareness #endometriosisart #understandingendometriosisthroughart #endometriosis  #recurrentmiscarriage #miscarriageart #miscarriage #geordannatheartist #watercolor #periods #menstratualperiod #menstruation #art #artist #texas #texasartist  #endoart #fertility #fertilityart #recurrentmiscarriage #infertility #infertilityart #frida  

It's like I'm living her life...

*God*

I KNOW that God is good. I KNOW that God is wise. I KNOW that God is love. And I KNOW that God's will and purposes are formed in perfect goodness and perfect wisdom and perfect love. I know this, and I accept His purposes for my life. But that doesn't stop the pain. And that doesn't stop the questions. Why did He create life in me when I wasn't even trying to conceive and then wait just long enough for me to fall in love with my babies and then take them right out of my womb? Why?

Loss after loss I've asked the same questions. And loss after loss I've received the same answer--Trust Me. Love Me. I am here.

Yes, I trust You. Yes, I love You. Yes, I know that You are here. But...

Do you ever want to ask God to leave you alone? To let you live your life in peace? I do, or at least a part of me does. A part of me wants to beg God not to teach me His ways, not to mold me to His likeness, not to use me in His service. But then I think, what would life be like without Him? Would there be less pain? I don't think so, life is painful, with or without Him. I just wouldn't have Him to comfort, guide, and carry me. Would there be more peace? No, life is chaotic, with or without Him. I just wouldn't have Him to shelter me in the storms. Would there be more hope? Impossible, life is short and has a clearly marked dead-end without Him. He is hope. He is my only hope.


*Where to go from here?*

Every time I conceive a new life in my womb, my heart expands exponentially to create a home for that child and my mind stretches wide open to welcome a new life into my life. Every time I lose a baby from my womb, my heart and mind are left with a gaping emptiness I don't know how to fill. In the past I've taken those spaces and filled them with hope for 'the next time.' Now, after growing space in my heart and mind for three babies at once and losing them all, I'm left with such a huge emptiness that I feel lost inside of it. But my husband and I weren't planning on having any more children. God planned these babies, not us. So now what do I do? If there is no hope for 'the next time' to fill this hole, to focus those aimless thoughts in the night, to hold the pieces of my heart together, then what do I do with those thoughts and the frayed edges of my broken heart? I don't know. I really don't.

How can I feel so safe in God's arms, so sure of the rightness of His purposes, so certain of the wisdom of His will, and still feel so lost?

I don't know. I really don't.


*Job*

Have you ever read the book of Job in the Bible? It's always been a book I struggled through and didn't really like. It's all about loss and unwanted advice from family and hurtful comments from friends and the reality of God being God. But it's the story every woman who miscarries can relate to. You know what I'm talking about. We've all heard--"That's just nature's way of getting rid of something that didn't grow right." and "It's not like you lost an actual child." And, from the 'churchfolk'--"You shouldn't feel empty. God is all you need." and "God needed your babies more than you did." What I like about the book of Job is that God didn't get mad at Job for asking questions and for wailing out his pain. But God did get mad at Job's friends who acted like they were speaking for God, like they knew why God did things and how God thought. When people make those comments and when they tell me how I 'should' feel, I just remember Job and those comments lose their sting completely (well, almost completely).


*What it's okay to say*

Here are some suggestions for you friends and family members out there who need a little guidance on how to communicate with a mother who's just lost a baby.

"I'm sorry."
"What can I do to help?"
"I don't know what to say."
"I'm hurting so much for you."
"I'm praying for you."

And don't let a day go by for the first couple of weeks that you don't say one or more of those things. It's pretty much all she can think of at that point, and you not mentioning it keeps her silent in a world of pain she doesn't know how to share. Don't try to make her talk, just let her know it's okay if she wants to.

'what NOT to say':
"You can always adopt."
"You're young. You can always try again."(Would you go to a funeral and tell the grieving widow, "You can always just get married again"?)
"At least it happened early." (A loss is a loss, minimizing it is not supportive, just hurtful.)

God bless.


*Anger*

I debated about whether to include this part or not, but, in the interest of complete honesty, I had to. I know that anger is one of the stages of grief, but it is the hardest stage for me because I'm a peacemaker, and anger always seems wrong to me...especially when it's God I'm angry with.

Anyway, here goes...after another night of sorrow, I suddenly woke up ANGRY, not a little angry, but really, really MAD--at God. I tried to hide it, even from myself, but it kept seeping and oozing out and when I got a phone call from our realtor that the buyer had backed out of our contract, I lost it. I cried and ranted and raved at God. And once the anger started flowing, there was no stopping it. I spent the whole day in tears, asking God what He was thinking, where He was in all this, if He really thought I deserved to be tortured, why everything seemed intentionally designed to make my loss as painful as possible, and when He was going to finally decide I'd had enough and LEAVE ME ALONE! And, you know what, I discovered some things. First, I discovered that I didn't just suddenly get angry; I'd been simmering for days and just wouldn't admit it to myself or God. Second, I discovered anew that I truly am a sinful person capable of being about as unlovely and petty and spiteful as the next sinner. Third, I discovered that God loves me just as I am. He wasn't surprised by my anger because He knew what was in my heart all along. Fourth, I discovered that pouring out the anger in my heart was the ultimate act of trust. God said in His word that we couldn't escape from His love and that He loved us while we were yet sinners. Trusting Him with my anger was trusting Him to be who He said He was and trusting Him to do what He said He would. And fifth, I discovered that by being willing, finally, to trust God and walk through this part of the valley, the healing could begin. As I released the anger I'd been hiding in my heart, peace seeped in to take it's place. That is the gift of God, peace that passes understanding. And I could finally begin to receive that gift when I fully trusted God with all that I am, the good and the bad, the beautiful and the ugly.

I know I have a long, long way to go. But a subtle shift has taken place in my soul. I still cry at night and I still hurt all the time, but I am living again, feeling again, moving forward again. And that ever-resilient hope, so fragile, so easily crushed and broken, has risen again.

God bless.

Dr. Mathias’ Endometriosis Diet + No Gluten + No Dairy

For those of you who dont know me let me give you a brief explanation. I am 29 years old and a newly wed wanting to start a family soon. I have Stage IV Endometriosis which required a laparotomy this past September 2010, for CO2 excision of deep endo implants that were all over every pelvic organ. I also had to have two sections of my bowels removed because the endo had penetrated though the bowel walls. Needless to say the past 4 months have been extremely difficult for me. I have a group of 3 endo specialist I work with: Dr. Rakesh Mangal who is an OBGYN RE, Dr. John Mathias who is a Neuro-Gastroenterologist and Dr. Bart Pickron a Colonrectal Surgeon. They are all located at The Women's Hospital of Texas in Houston. They all encourage and support me to do things naturally through diet, acupuncture, progesterone cream therapy and yoga. The below is my diet that was given to me by them.

Here is their scientific article on their theory and research about how endometriosis is a disease of insulin sensitivity.

I know so many doctors out there are so oblivious to what really goes on with women, especially women with endometriosis. I went through over 10 doctors since the age of 13 before I found Dr. Mangal! So I thought I would share with you their opinions. The diet has really been helping me out. I started it about 3 months before my surgery and have continued it since. I will be on this diet for the rest of my life. I don't even really like looking at it as "diet" it definitely more a LIFESTYLE CHANGE. But I am honestly feeling better. This diet is almost the same diet doctors like Dr. Mehmet Oz, Dr Arthur Agatston and Dr. Christiane Northrup are touting for heart health, overall women's health, overall human health, weight loss, beautiful skin and longevity of life!

Also here Is the Endo support group Facebook Page I started.
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Let me touch specificslly on Dr. John Mathias, of Houston, TX. He is one of my doctors that has been treating me for my endometriosis. He is a neuro-gastroenterologist that specializes in bowel endometriosis. He believes women with endometriosis suffer from the biochemical abnormality of hyper secretion of insulin, resulting in the production of excessive pathway 2 prostaglandins that cause seizure activity of the enteric system.

He suggests that bowel symptoms may decrease when foods that encourage the production of bad prostaglandins (the chemicals in our bodies responsible for cramps, spasms, and excitatory transmissions) are reduced or eliminated. These foods include: red meat, alcohol, chocolate, and soy. Basically, the control of insulin and blood sugar is extremely important to control inflammation in the entire body.

“Omitting foods that are neural stimulants (caffeine and tramline), reducing glycolic carbs (the stimulus for insulin release), supplementing with Omega 3 (precursor of pathways 3 prostaglandins) and Omega 9 (the governor of insulin release) fatty acids, and providing neural stability with Gaga-Agonist (ex: Klonopin and Periactin in minute amounts) results in control of the disabling symptoms of this common disease involving the hallow viscera (intestines and fallopian tubes).”

“There also has to be some mechanism with wheat in regards to endometriosis. Wheat has been genetically modified and there are two hormones out of two, the genome. There is also problems with gluten sensitivity, and more people are becoming gluten sensitive and I find that when I’ve taken wheat out of the diet, in 80% of the women with endometriosis, their pain subsides.”

I also have Celiac Disease so I can’t have gluten at all. Dr. Mathias does allow whole grain bread in moderation but I had to cut that entirely out. I also have IBS-C and I am Lactose Intolerant so I can’t have any dairy, although Dr. Mathias does allow Skim Milk and soft cheeses in moderation. I think my “tweaked” diet is a lot better because most endometriosis specialists suggest no gluten and no dairy anyways. The below is Dr. Mathias’s low glycemic (less than 50), non neural-stimulating diet modified to fit my other diseases. A positive thing about his diet is he allows clear liquors like vodka and white wines (in extremely moderate amounts) but I hate both of those. I am more a tequila girl and even then I probably drink maybe once every few months.


The following diet is most successful when accompanied with laser excision laparoscopy of all the endometriosis.

This diet is almost the same diet doctors like Dr. Mehmet Oz, Dr Arthur Agatston and Dr. Christiane Northrup are touting for heart health, overall women's health, overall human health, weight loss, beautiful skin and longevity of life!

FOODS OK TO EAT (when possible try to get Organic)

PROTEIN:
-Chicken, Fish (Cod, Salmon, Tuna, ect), Turkey, Shellfish,
-Eggs

-Almonds
-Cashews
-Walnuts
-Pecans
-Almond Butter

CARBS:
-Quinoa
-Quinoa Pasta

-Smuckers Low Sugar Jelly

-Old Fashion Oatmeal (NOT instant, the one that takes 5 minutes)

All Fresh Veggies -except the ones on NO list but esp:
-Artichokes
-Asparagus
-Avocado
-Bell Peppers
-Broccoli
-Brussel Sprouts
-Cabbage
-Cauliflower
-Cucumber
-Garlic
-Green Beans
-Green Leafy Veggies
-Lemons and Limes
-Mushrooms
-Olives
-Onions
-Squashes
-Tomatoes

Fresh Fruit: Lowest on Glycemic Index (lower than 50)
-Berries
-Cherries
-Kiwi
-Apples
-Peaches
-Pears
-Pineapples
-Plums

DRINKS:
-WATER- filtered
-Propel
-Lifewater with erythrotol
-DECAFFIANTED Teas (no soy)
-Almond Milk

OTHERS:
-All Herbs
-All Spices

-Homemade Soups- but don’t use bullions

-Oils: Olive or Peanut Oil

-Condiments: Hot sauce, Mayo, Mustard

-Salad Dressing: Olive Oil & Vinegar

-Sweeteners: Truvia, Stevia, Agave Nectar

Supplements:
-Pharmaceutical Grade Multi Vitamin- 2x a day
-Pharmaceutical Grade Omega 3- 3x a day
-Liquid Minerals- 2 Tablespoons in the morning
-Omega 9-Olive Oil- 1 Tablespoon with every meal
-Probiotic

Medications:
-Klonopin
-Periactin

____________________________________


FOOD FOR MODERATION (MAYBE 3x a week, no more)

CARBS:
-GLUTEN-FREE Whole Grain Bread
- NO rice/corn/yeast/modified starches in breads or pastas

Veggies:
-Sweet Potatoes
-Lentils
-Peas

Fruits:
-Grapes
-Oranges
-Watermelon

DRINKS:
-Top Shelf Quality (100% Agave) Tequila

OTHERS:
-Butter (Dairy Free & Soy Free)
-Fructose
-Ketchup
-Spicy Foods

_______________________________________


FOODS NOT OK TO EAT
*Note: Tyramine foods have an astris-Tyramine is an excitatory transmitter that affects the nerves

PROTEIN NOT ALLOWED:
-NO Dairy
-NO Caviar
-NO Pork
-NO Red Meat
-NO Tofu
-NO Soy
-NO processed meats*

CARBS NOT ALLOWED:
- NO Wheat/Gluten/Yeast
- NO breads or pasta containing gluten/rice/yeast/modified starches
- NO Refined Sugars
- NO Malto-dextrins
- NO Dextrins Rusk

- NO Rye, Ryvita, rye breads
- NO Rice, Rice pasta, Rice cakes, Rice noodles, or Rice Cereals

Veggies NOT ALLOWED:
- NO Avocadoes*
- NO Beets
- NO Corn, Corn pasta, Corn tortillas, or Corn Cereals
- NO Eggplants*
- NO Popcorn
- NO Carrots
- NO Russet or Russet Potatoes- only Sweet Potatoes
- NO Flat Beans (example Black, Butter, Kidney, Pinto)

Fruit NOT ALLOWED:
- NO Bananas*
- NO Mangoes
- NO Papaya
- NO Cranberries
- NO Dates
- NO Figs*
- NO Prunes*
- NO Raisins*
- NO Dried Fruits*

No Processed Food of any kind*

DRINKS NOT ALLOWED:
- NO Beer
- NO Coffee
- NO CAFFEINE AT ALL
- NO SOFT DRINKS
- NO Flavored Water
- NO store bought Fruit Juices (homemade with no sugar is ok)
- NO Gatorade
- NO Liquor - except for what is on moderation list
- NO Red Wine

OTHER FOODS NOT ALLOWED:
- NO Chocolate*
- NO Honey
- NO Margarine
- NO Sugar Substitutes ex Splenda
- NO Sunflower or Pumpkin Seeds
- NO Corn, Safflower, Sunflower or Vegetable Oil


ALWAYS BALANCE YOUR DIET WITH A PROTEIN, LOW GLYCEMIC CARB, AND RECOMMENDED OIL. GLYCEMIC INDEX SHOULD BE BELOW 50.

10 Natural Way to reduce your Endometriosis Pain by Melissa from www.cureendometriosis.com

I have had Endometriosis for over 15years and struggled with pain killers, hormonal treatments - you name it! I then discovered natural options for healing and was amazed at how much more I could do for my body!

I know for me the worst time is always that dreaded monthly but over the last year I have found ways to reduce the level of pain that experience and it is now only down to one day of the month where I feel pain. Here are 10 natural ways which I have personally used to help reduce my Endometriosis pain.

1. Change your diet
Many girls experience a dramatic change in their life just by cutting out certain foods from their diet. The biggest culprits for pain are bread, flour based foods, meat and dairy products. Do this gradually so your body has a chance to adapt but cutting out bread is the top one for reducing the bloating and pain levels with Endometriosis.

2. Incorporate Super Foods into your diet
There are a number of fantastic Super Foods in the diet which can give instant healing to your body. Try Maca Root, Aloe Vera Juice or the Umeboshi Plum. Super Foods contain all the best nutrients for the body. They are easily absorbed and often offer additional benefits such as hormonal regulation and anti-inflammatory properties. I have a free Super Foods Guide which lists 6 Super Foods and their benefits.

3. Drink Herbal Teas
There is a wonderful selection of teas out there that offer amazing healing and soothing relief. Try Motherwort, Raspberry Leaf Tea, Dandelion Tea and Liquorice Root Tea. They help the uterus, bladder and liver which all helps with healing of Endometriosis. Try and drink one herbal tea a day, mid afternoon to allow yourself to fully absorb their goodness.

4. Start Yoga
Yoga offers your body many benefits with regards to Endometriosis. You will strengthen the body and provide some much needed movement for your lymphatic system. Yoga also serves to calm the nerves and give you a positive outlook which is crucial to maintaining stress levels.

5. Review your thought patterns
Negativity and feeling powerless against Endometriosis is not going to help your healing. Take back the power and believe that you can find a way to overcome your Endometriosis. The mind is a powerful thing and you can make the decision to heal. The body is very powerful and wants to heal. Your belief in its ability is a positive step in the right direction.

6. Lose some weight
The more fat cells you carry on your body, the more dioxin and toxins you will hold in your body. Dioxin has been closely linked to Endometriosis and is believed to be a proven reason we have it. Dioxin lives in fat cells. By carrying additional fat cells, you are giving dioxin space to live and maintain toxicity in the body. You can lose weight by changing your diet, incorporating some light walking and drinking lots of water. Extra weight is also more work on the body and makes your whole system struggle to keep up with healing itself.

7. Expel Anger from your life
Anger is closely linked to Endometriosis and also relates to the liver, which is the main organ responsible for the cause of Endometriosis. When we hold anger inside our body it creates more blockages and reduces the natural flow inside our organs. Get rid of your anger through EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique)or simply start a kickboxing or boxing class and let your frustrations out. Yell, scream or burn it off but allow it to come out!

8. Incorporate oils into your life
There are many benefits to natural oils which you can easily incorporate into your life. Try Calendula Oil next time you have Endometriosis pain. By rubbing Calendula Oil into your abdominal area and giving yourself a soft massage you will feel the benefits of the soothing properties immediately. Experiment with oils in an oil burner to give you relaxation and upliftment. They are incredibly powerful and make a wonderful addition to bath water, candles and your skin.

9. Eliminate Stress from your Life
Stress causes more pain and discomfort for Endometriosis. We cramp our stomach muscles when we stress and our cortisone levels shoot right up. Review your life and work out where your stress is coming from and reduce it or eliminate it. Surround yourself with things that make you happy and don't have stress elements associated with them. You will never heal with continuous stress in your life. You can learn to deal with stress levels better but ultimately your health is more important than anything that is causing you unnecessary stress.

10. Read more
There are so many amazing ways to heal the body naturally. Drugs and medication are not your only option with Endometriosis. The body is a perfectly created being. It was created with perfect balance and we can regain that balance by what we feed and give our body. It wants to heal. You can give it that power by learning more about it and what it really needs.

I have discovered so much on my journey with Endometriosis and have decided to share it all in my personal blog. It is called www.cureendometriosis.com as my goal is to find a natural cure for Endometriosis! I hope it helps many girls out there discover their true healing potential!

Acupuncture, TCM, Progesterone Cream, Diet and Yoga

I am very set on trying to rid myself of this stupid endo naturally. Having already gone through 1 laparoscopy and 1 laparotomy last year to treat my Stage IV endo, taking progestin only birth control pills that drove me mad, and like 47812489712498 doctors I want to really try to do things naturally.

I know doing things naturally will require patients because it will be 3+ months to years before I start to get any relief but right now these are the therapies I am doing:

• Acupuncture at least 3x a week, every day during period
• Tradition Chinese Medicines/Herbs daily
• Progesterone Cream: Day 6 through Day 26 of my period = 1/4 ml nightly
• Diet: gluten free, dairy-free, soy-free, no pork, no red meat, no sugar, low glycemic fruit and veggies, no alcohol, no chocolate
• Yoga 4x a week, 2x a week during my period

15 things you can do for someone with endometriosis

Talking with my fiancé and other loved ones has shown me that Endometriosis is extraordinarily hard for family and friends.  It is miserable looking at your wife, or girlfriend, sister, or friend… and not knowing what to do.  There is no cure for Endometriosis; surgeries can alleviate pain, pain medications can make daily life semi-bearable.  But for those of you who aren’t doctors–what can you do?  Trust me, there’s a lot.

1 Run her a hot bath and add epsom salts or lavender soak.

2 Do her grocery shopping.

3 Clean her house. (We always need help with this one)

4 Offer to give her a shoulder & back massage.

5 Tell her you are so proud of her, she is brave and tough, and you are amazed at her strength.

6 Cook meals for her.

7 Drive her to doctor appointments and surgeries!

Buy her a heating pad.  If she already has one, get it ready for her and let her know.

Simply ask her if there’s anything you can do.
Pick up her medication at the pharmacy.  Argue with the doctor and pharmacist if necessary (this may get you extra points).
Understand if she has to cancel plans.  Endometriosis does not care about plans or movie dates.  She does, but she cannot help it.
Let her know you are thinking about her, praying for her, etc.  It will mean the world to her!
Hugs, hugs, hugs!

Bring home/buy/download a comedy film for her.  Laughter will be her saving grace, I promise.
Come to her doctor appointment with her, ask questions, and listen.  It’s one of the best ways you can show your support.
Above all, remember to be patient.  We do not choose our illness.  Plans will be cancelled, tantrums may be thrown.  It is difficult for everyone involved.  If you can tell she’s have a particularly hard day, give her a hug and let her know you’re proud of her.  Let her know that you understand.  Tell her you are amazed by her strength.  It will make a difference–you’ll be surprised.

If you or someone you know has Endometriosis, feel free to leave a comment with more ideas on how to help those who are suffering.  The more we communicate, the easier our fight becomes.  I hope everyone is having a great evening.  Remember to breathe, and you are not alone.

Padma Lakshmi bring light to Endometriosis on the Today Show

Padma Lakshmi bring light to Endometriosis on the Today Show

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

Endometriosis Diet

Endometriosis Diet
While there are various medical treatments for endometriosis available, as well as surgical ones, many women have found that changing their diet can help to effectively manage their symptoms. In some cases, dietary changes may be enough to help you live your life symptom free.

Why Change the Diet?

Making changes to your diet when you have endometriosis is not just about easing the signs of endometriosis. Following a healthier diet and eliminating those foods that aggravate your symptoms will not only help to reduce your estrogen levels, but it will also contribute to normalizing your hormone levels and it can even stabilize your emotions.
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Endometriosis Treatment
Medical Treatment
Surgical Treatment
Endometriosis Diet
Alternative Treatment
Ayurveda Medicine
Chiropractic Treatment
Yoga Therapy
New Progress
Preventing Adhesions
Endometriosis Treatment
Endo Pain Relief
Endometriosis And Fertility

Endometriosis 101
What is Endometriosis? Learn the Causes, Risks & Treatment Options. Lifescript.com/Endometriosis
Similar to the candida diet, which helps people dealing with recurrent vaginal thrush infections, an endometriosis diet aims to eliminate those foods that encourage your symptoms while increasing those foods that lower your prostaglandins. Prostaglandins, which are stimulated by estrogen, are the hormones responsible for those painful cramps you feel during menstruation as well as possibly menorrhagia, nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea that you may also experience.


Prostaglandins actually break down into three different forms: prostaglandin E1 (PGE1); prostaglandin E2 (PGE2); and prostaglandin F2a (PGF2a). While PGE1 can help alleviate endometriosis symptoms, PGE2 contributes to menorrhagia and PGF2a to vomiting, nausea and diarrhoea. Together, PGE2 and PGF2a produce the immense period pain women with endometriosis must deal with. However, by changing your diet, it is possible to block PGE2 and PGF2a while encouraging the production of PGE1 to help your symptoms.

Fibre

We all know that diets high in fibre are helpful to digestion and keeping the bowels working. However, fibre may also reduce the levels of estrogen circulating in your system. Some good sources of fibre include:
Whole grains
Fruits and vegetables
Beans
Brown Rice
Omega-3s

There are many benefits to consuming omega-3 fatty acids. In addition to helping your over physical and mental health, though, omega-3s have also been found to promote the production of PGE1. Some good sources of omega-3s include:
Flaxseeds and oil
Pumpkin seeds
Walnuts
Oily fish (i.e. salmon, sardines, herring, mackerel)
Tuna
Sunflower oil
Evening primrose oil
Fortified foods
Dairy

While dairy is an important part of a balanced diet, as dairy is an excellent source of calcium, women with endometriosis may benefit from minimizing their consumption of dairy products. Dairy can contribute to stimulating the production of prostaglandins, thereby worsening your symptoms. If you are planning to eliminate dairy from your diet, it is important to find other sources of calcium in order to meet your daily intake requirement of 1000mg/day. Alternative sources of calcium can include:
Dark green vegetables (i.e. spinach, broccoli, bok choy and kale)
Calcium fortified tofu
Sesame seeds
Almonds
Figs
Seaweed
Salmon and sardines
Tahini
Other food items fortified with calcium, like orange juice
Meat

Animal meat, though a good source of protein, is another food source that can aggravate your symptoms. In particular, meat, as well as lard which comes from animal fat, is known to promote PGF2a, so reducing your consumption may be helpful. To ensure you still have adequate protein intake, though, try incorporating some of these protein-rich foods into your diet:
Beans
Tofu
Tempeh
Nuts (i.e. pecans, walnuts, cashews, pistachios, chestnuts)
Seeds (i.e. sunflower, pumpkin, sesame, flaxseeds)
Peanuts
Other Foods to Avoid

In general, there are a number of foods that women with endometriosis are advised to avoid.
Caffeine (i.e. coffee, tea)
Alcohol
Chocolate
Saturated fats
Butter and margarine
Drinks and foods with a high sugar content
Refined carbohydrates (i.e. pasta, bread, cakes, pastries)
Fried foods
Furthermore, while soy products are often touted as a great alternative to meat, they may not be ideal for those with endometriosis, who are sensitive to estrogen. Some of the isoflavones found in non-fermented soy products have been known to disrupt and interfere with certain tissues, especially in women sensitive to estrogen. Limiting your consumption of soy products that are not fermented to two to three times a week or less is best.

Also, keep in mind that every woman is different. It is very likely that you may have specific foods, like tomatoes or hot drinks, that aggravate your symptoms. Paying attention to how your body reacts to certain foods will help you understand better which foods to eliminate during menstruation.

Finally, in order for women to have healthy diets, it may be necessary to use supplements to make sure you are getting all the necessary vitamins and minerals. If your periods are exceptionally long and/or heavy, you may want to discuss with your doctor using iron supplements to guard against iron deficiency or anemia.

The endometriosis diet should diminish your endometriosis symptoms; and for those looking to lose weight, changing your eating habits to minimize endometriosis symptoms should minimize your waistline as well, since maintaining a healthy balance and cutting out bad-for-you foods is central to both!

Welp I have Endometriosis, Stage IV

The diet DID help a little. I think the disease (weird typing that, I have a disease)had progrssed too much from 15+ years of other doctors NOT listening to me, that diet would ony help alleviate a little. I was still having incredibly debilitating pain. I finally had Surgery April 23, 2010 and yup, I have Stage IV Endometriosis....The Doctor proceeded to burn on the "bad" tissue away. He said I should be back to normal in a couple of days. Uhh it's been an entire week and i'm NOT back to normal.
_______________________




Natural Treatments for Endometriosis:
Severe Endo should def first be treated with surgery and then the following:

1) Reduce Chemical Intake
Although earlier studies in women were conflicting, there is increasing evidence that chronic exposure to the environmental chemicals dioxins and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) is associated with an increased prevalence and severity of endometriosis.

One way to reduce intake of these chemicals is to cut back on animal fat, especially high-fat dairy, red meat, and fish. Dioxin and PCBs both accumulate in animal fat, and it is our main route of exposure.

Interestingly, studies on diet and endometriosis also support this link. For example, an Italian study examined data from 504 women with endometriosis and found an increased risk with a high intake of red meat and ham. Fresh fruit and vegetables were associated with a reduction in risk.

2) Vegetables and Flaxseeds
There is evidence that a group of plant chemicals called flavones can inhibit aromatase, the enzyme that converts androgens to estrogens. Good food sources of flavones are celery and parsley.

Broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, kale, Brussels sprouts, and bok choy, contain compounds called indoles, which appear to improve estrogen metabolism.

Flaxseeds are high in lignans and fiber, which have been found to be beneficial for estrogen-related conditions.

3) Progesterone Cream
Alternative practitioners sometimes recommend progesterone cream. Progesterone is thought to slow the growth of abnormal endometrial tissue. Although it's not considered a cure, it may improve symptoms such as pain during menstrual periods and pelvic pain. There haven't been any studies on progesterone cream for endometriosis, so we don't know for certain about it's effectiveness or safety.

Progesterone cream is derived from either soy or Mexican wild yam. A molecule called diosgenin is extracted in a lab and converted to a molecule that's exactly like human progesterone and added to back to the cream. Some companies sell wild yam cream, but unless it has been converted in a lab it is useless, because the body can't convert wild yam to progesterone on its own.

Natural progesterone cream is applied to the wrists, inner arms, inner thighs, or upper chest at a dose and schedule that should be recommended by a professional. It's important to be supervised and to have progesterone levels monitored on lab tests, because too much progesterone can cause such side effects as mood changes, depression, water retention, weight gain, and absent or abnormal menstrual bleeding.

Natural progesterone cream is available from a compounding pharmacy (the website www.iacprx.org has listings) or at regular drug stores.

4) Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are found in fish such as salmon, mackerel, sardines, and anchovies. They are also available in fish oil capsules, which may be the preferable form because good brands contain minimal amounts of PCBs and dioxins.

Several studies have found that omega-3 fatty acids may be beneficial for people with endometriosis. For example, an animal study by the University of Western Ontario found that fish oil containing two specific compounds, EPA and DHA, can relieve pain by decreasing levels of an inflammatory chemical called prostaglandin E2. Researchers also found that fish oil could slow the growth of endometrial tissue.

5) Stress Reduction
Cortisol is a hormone involved in the stress response but is also needed to make other hormones such as progesterone. Prolonged stress can lead to elevations in cortisol, which alternative practitioners say may decrease the available progesterone and result in a hormonal imbalance.

One study involving 49 women found that cortisol levels were significantly higher in women with advanced endometriosis compared to women who didn't have this condition.

Herbs and nutrients that alternative practitioners commonly recommend for stress reduction include:

* Ashwaghandha
* B vitamins
* Vitamin C
* Zinc
* Magnesium

Other stress reduction methods include:

* Relaxation Response
* Mindfulness Meditation
* Diaphragmatic Breathing

6) Hydrotherapy
A contrast sitz bath is often recommended by alternative practitioners for endometriosis. It is a home remedy and has not been studied.

A contrast sitz bath involves sitting in a small basin or tub filled with hot water for three minutes, then getting up and sitting in another basin filled with cool water for one minute. The hot water-cold water cycle is repeated another 3 times. It is not usually done during menstruation.

7) Ginger Tea
Ginger tea may relieve the nausea that can occur with endometriosis.

8) Bacterial or yeast overgrowth
William Crook, author of The Yeast Connection believed there was a strong connection between endometriosis and candida yeast overgrowth.

A study by the Woman's Hospital of Texas examined 50 women with endometriosis and found that 40 women showed bacterial overgrowth. After eight weeks of treatment, here was a significant reduction in symptoms.

Doctor thinks I have Endometriosis

Well on top of EVERYTHING my doctor thinks I have Endometriosis. Surgery is the last resort so my dr's want me on this diet for the next few months to see if it helps alleviate the pain at all. Even if I end up having the surgery most likely I will always be on this diet...

The following are 10 foods to avoid with endometriosis -

1. Sugar - Sugar, in all its forms (refined, artificial, natural), can produce a more acidic environment which can encourage the inflammatory pain of endometriosis. Therefore, it's a good idea to limit the consumption of chocolate, sweeteners, drinks and sweets with high levels of sugar, and honey.

2. Wheat - Wheat contains phytic acid which can aggravate endometriosis symptoms. Furthermore, wheat contains gluten, and studies have found that many endometriosis sufferers appear to have gluten sensitivity which can cause and increase painful symptoms. Products containing wheat and gluten should be avoided or limited.

3. Soy products - Like wheat, soy contains phytic acid; however the levels of phytic acid in soy are considerably higher than wheat. Phytic acid is known to irritate the digestive system and reduces mineral absorption, especially calcium. Soy is found in many food products including granola, pasta, imitation meat, soy milk, soy based cheese, etc.

4. Caffeine - Caffeine, especially when consumed in high amounts, has been found to increase estrogen levels, which can trigger endometriosis attacks and cause the condition to develop. Caffeine foods to avoid with endometriosis include coffee, tea and soda. Consuming more than two cups of coffee a day may cause estrogen levels to rise.

5. Alcohol - Alcohol eats up vitamin B stored in the liver. Liver function plays an essential role in clearing out excess estrogen which helps to control endometriosis. Eliminating alcohol on the body puts excessive stress on the liver, hindering it from expelling other items from the body.

6. Dairy products - Dairy products stimulate the production of PGE2 and PGF2a, which can worsen symptoms. The primary dairy foods that you should avoid with endometriosis include milk and cheeses. To help keep calcium levels up you can find other sources of calcium in sesame seeds, almonds, salmon, sardines, seaweed, figs, and calcium fortified foods (I.E. tofu, orange juice, etc.) Note: Remember to be careful when substituting dairy products such as pasteurized milk with soy milk, as soy can also aggravate symptoms.

7. Red Meat - Meat promotes PGF2a production. Furthermore, red meat may contain growth hormones that include estrogen. If meat is your main source of protein, you can obtain the protein you need through other protein-rich foods such as beans, tofu, tempeh, walnuts, cashews, chestnuts, sunflower seeds, flaxseed, sesame seeds, and peanuts.

8. Saturated fats and oils - Foods that are high in fatty acids stimulate the production of PGE2 and PGF2a. Fatty acids are found in saturated fats, oils (IE coconut oil, palm oil, etc.), butter, margarine, lard, organ meats, and plenty of fried foods.

9. Refined carbohydrates - refined carbohydrates (I.E. white bread, pasta, flour, pastry, cakes, etc.) have had most of their natural nutrients removed. Refined carbohydrates deplete the body's nutritional stores as they are needed in order for the body to absorb the nutrients in the refined carbs. This can lead to endometriosis symptoms. Instead of refined carbs, stick to unrefined carbohydrates such as wholegrain breads, pasta, rice, etc.

10. Additives and preservatives - processed, frozen and pre-packaged are foods to avoid with endometriosis as they are full of additives, preservatives chemicals, and many other ingredients that promote ill-health and PGE2 and PGF2.