February is often celebrated as the month of love and intimacy. But for the 1 in 10 women living with Endometriosis, intimacy can be a source of anxiety and physical pain.
For years, the standard advice has been limited: “Take the Pill or have surgery.” But a powerful new review published in the CAND Journal confirms that there are evidence-based, non-hormonal ways to manage this complex condition.
Article: “Integrative Strategies for Managing Endometriosis—A Comprehensive Narrative Review
Author: Dr. Anna Kolomitseva, ND
Publication: CAND Journal, Vol. 32, No. 4 (December 2025) https://candjournal.ca/index.php/candj/article/view/217
The Gist: What the Science Says
This comprehensive review analyzed 27 clinical studies to evaluate “integrative” treatments for endometriosis. The findings were clear: specific anti-inflammatory diets (like Mediterranean and Low-FODMAP) and targeted nutraceuticals (specifically Curcumin, Resveratrol, and Omega-3s) effectively reduced pelvic pain and inflammation.
The review concluded that these are not just “nice to haves”—they are “mechanism-based adjuncts” that target the root drivers of the disease: oxidative stress and immune dysfunction.
Dr. Jennifer’s Take: Turning Down the "Fire"
What I love about this review is that it highlights the difference between suppressing symptoms and treating the mechanism.
In my practice, I view Endometriosis not just as a “hormone problem,” but as an inflammatory disease. The lesions are driven by inflammatory signals (cytokines) that tell the tissue to grow and cause pain.
- The Pill works by shutting down the cycle (suppression).
- Naturopathic Care works by lowering the inflammatory “fire” that fuels the lesions.
This research validates what we see clinically: when we lower systemic inflammation with tools like high-dose Curcumin and gut-healing diets (Low-FODMAP), pain scores drop significantly—without the side effects of hormonal suppression.
The Patient Takeaway: Actionable Steps
If you or someone you love is struggling with painful periods or pain during intercourse, know that you have options beyond medication.
Start by looking at your plate. The research supports an “Anti-Inflammatory” approach:
Increase Omega-3s
Walnuts, flax, and fatty fish.
Reduce Triggers
Consider a trial of eliminating gluten or high-FODMAP foods to reduce gut inflammation (which cross-talks with pelvic pain).
Targeted Support
Ask us about “mechanism-based” supplements like Resveratrol or NAC to support your body’s natural cleanup processes.
Time to Break the Cycle of Pain?
Dr. Jennifer Luis offers advanced functional testing and compassionate, evidence-based care for Endometriosis and pelvic pain.
References:
- Kolomitseva, A. (2025). Integrative Strategies for Managing Endometriosis—A Comprehensive Narrative Review. CAND Journal, 32(4), 3-10. Available from: https://candjournal.ca/index.php/candj/article/view/217
