Endometriosis & Adenomyosis
Endometriosis and Adenomyosis are two distinct but related conditions that can bring a wide and sometimes confusing range of symptoms and for some women, no obvious symptoms at all.
As a Geelong-based naturopath specialising in women’s hormone health, I take an empathetic, individualised approach to both, because the right referrals, testing and treatment really do depend on your specific symptom picture.
What Is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis is characterised by the growth of endometrial-like tissue outside the uterine space - it can be found all over the body, including on the uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes and bowel. Clinical symptoms vary widely and can include painful menstruation, painful ovulation, heavy menstruation, chronic pelvic pain, painful intercourse, painful bowel movements or urination, IBS-like symptoms, difficulty conceiving, and mood instability. Importantly, some women with endometriosis have no symptoms at all, which is part of why it can be so difficult to diagnose.
What Is Adenomyosis?
Adenomyosis is endometrial-like tissue found within the muscular wall of the uterus itself, often described as a “bulky uterus” on ultrasound. Clinical symptoms may include heavy menstrual bleeds, painful menstruation, irregular bleeding patterns, and difficulty conceiving.
How I Work With You
Given the extensive range of symptoms possible in both conditions, treatment approaches are equally broad. I focus on an empathetic, individualised assessment to understand your specific pattern, help guide you toward the right referrals and testing (including imaging or specialist review where appropriate), and build a naturopathic plan around diet, lifestyle and targeted support alongside your medical care.
FAQ
How is endometriosis diagnosed?
Definitive diagnosis is usually via laparoscopic surgery, though imaging and symptom patterns can point strongly toward it beforehand - I can help guide you toward the right referrals if that’s a path worth exploring.
Can you help if I don’t have a diagnosis yet?
Yes. Many women come to me with symptoms but no formal diagnosis, and part of my role is helping you understand your symptoms and get the right testing and referrals.
Is adenomyosis the same as endometriosis?
No, they’re related but distinct. Adenomyosis involves endometrial-like tissue within the uterine muscle wall itself, rather than outside the uterus.
Can naturopathic treatment help if I’m already under specialist care?
Yes. I work alongside your gynaecologist or specialist, focusing on diet, lifestyle and targeted nutritional support to complement your medical treatment.
Will this affect my fertility?
Both conditions can be associated with difficulty conceiving for some women, though not all - it’s worth discussing your specific situation so we can look at the full picture together.