Toronto Naturopath Women's Health: Period Pain + Endometriosis

Still over here chatting about period pain, which means I get to put a lil extra added spotlight on one of my favourite topics in menstrual health; Endometriosis

Endometriosis is more common than you think, affecting more than 1 in 10 menstruators. It’s an immune and inflammatory condition that can also be affected by hormones (estrogen potentially being the main one). Endo is a whole body inflammatory and immune modulated disease. It’s not CAUSED by hormonal imbalances though, so if you’ve been recommended hormone balancing treatments options only for your endo, then it’s time to dive deeper.

Clues that your period pain might actually be endometriosis? Severe debilitating period pain. The type that lasts for multiple days, pain killers don’t seem to touch, and can get so bad that you have to vomit. Pain can also occur during bowel movements and intercourse with endometriosis.

Many people with periods who experience endometriosis symptoms are told they should go on the birth control pill. And while it can help to relieve symptoms, an integrative approach to the treatment of endo MUST ALSO address immune system modulation and decrease inflammation. This can be done through an individualized approach to nutrition, herbal and supplemental supports.

The pain of people with periods is a feminist issue. Your pain is important. You are the best judge of your own pain. It’s not all in your head. It’s time that healthcare started taking it seriously

Dr. Jennah Miller, ND is a Toronto and Halifax based Naturopathic Doctor, with a passion for menstrual health and hormones. She works with women and people with periods in co-creating supportive health practices that integrate seamlessly with their lifestyle and goals. Jennah has a passion for finding solutions to PMS, PCOS, period pain, and fertility for folks of all ages.