How gut health affects endometriosis and what you can do about it

Understanding and supporting gut health can be a missing piece in managing Endometriosis symptoms and improving overall wellbeing.

What’s the connection between the gut and endometriosis?

Endometriosis is more than just a reproductive condition; it’s a systemic inflammatory disease that can affect various body systems, including the gastrointestinal tract. Many individuals with endometriosis experience digestive issues such as bloating, constipation, and nausea. This overlap is not coincidental; the gut and endometriosis are intricately linked.

How does gut health influence endometriosis symptoms?

The gut plays a pivotal role in regulating inflammation, hormone metabolism, and immune responses, all critical factors in endometriosis management. An imbalanced gut microbiome, known as dysbiosis, can exacerbate inflammation and disrupt estrogen metabolism, potentially worsening endometriosis symptoms.

Many people with Endometriosis also experience gut symptoms, including:

• Bloating (sometimes called endo belly)

• Constipation or diarrhea

• Abdominal discomfort

• Food intolerances or sensitivities

When the gut isn’t working well, it increases inflammation, disrupts immune balance, and reduces the body’s ability to detoxify, all of which can worsen endometriosis flares.

What is the estrobolome, and why is it important?

The estrobolome refers to the collection of gut bacteria involved in metabolising estrogen. A healthy estrobolome helps maintain balanced estrogen levels by facilitating its breakdown and elimination. However, dysbiosis can impair this process, leading to elevated estrogen levels that may fuel endometrial tissue growth and inflammation.

How does the gut-brain axis relate to endometriosis?

The gut-brain axis is the bidirectional communication network between the gastrointestinal tract and the central nervous system. Disruptions in this axis can influence pain perception, mood, and stress responses. In endometriosis, gut inflammation may affect this communication, potentially intensifying pain and emotional distress.

What is “leaky gut,” and how does it affect endometriosis?

“Leaky gut” refers to increased intestinal permeability, where the gut lining becomes compromised, allowing toxins and bacteria to enter the bloodstream. This can trigger systemic inflammation, which may exacerbate endometriosis symptoms. Maintaining gut integrity is crucial for reducing inflammatory responses associated with the condition.

How can diet support gut health in endometriosis?

Adopting an anti-inflammatory diet rich in fiber, antioxidants, and omega-3 fatty acids can promote a healthy gut microbiome. Incorporating fermented foods like sauerkraut and kefir may also support gut health. Conversely, limiting processed foods, sugar, and alcohol can help reduce inflammation and support hormonal balance

Are there tests to assess gut health in endometriosis?

Yes, functional tests such as stool analysis can evaluate gut microbiota composition, inflammation markers, and intestinal permeability. These assessments can guide personalised interventions to restore gut health and manage endometriosis symptoms effectively.

Healing from the inside out

Supporting your gut is one of the most impactful yet often overlooked strategies in endometriosis care.

Want to go deeper?

Understanding the gut-endometriosis connection is vital for holistic healing. By nurturing your gut health, you can alleviate symptoms and improve overall well-being.

Download your free endometriosis guide to help you understand endometriosis and get practical, natural strategies to start today. 

Explore my blog on natural healing strategies for endometriosis to learn even more tools.