Endometriosis & Chemical Exposure
Many physicians and patients know that acupuncture is a great tool for women suffering from endometriosis. Did you know that there is a link between endometriosis and the environment? Growing evidence is linking chemical exposure with endometriosis and other pelvic inflammatory conditions. This issue is a particular concern for women trying to conceive.
When working with endometriosis patients, common household chemicals linked to endometriosis is an important topic of conversation in my practice. This subject is equally as important as diet, nutritional supplementation, and other lifestyle modifications. Here are a few of the frequently asked questions in regards to endometriosis and chemical exposure:
What does the research say about chemical exposure and endometriosis?
Endometriosis is an estrogen-dependent condition and research shows that endocrine disrupting chemicals may play a role in the progression and severity of the condition. Studies have also shown that endometriosis developed in 79% of rhesus monkeys exposed with dioxins and PCBs. A 2003 study gave further insight into how prevalent these chemicals are in the average home.
The Household Exposure Study was a multi-institutional study led by Silent Spring to assess environmental links to breast cancer. More than 89 hormone-disrupting chemicals were found in samples taken from 120 homes in the Cape Cod area of Massachusetts.
What chemicals should I avoid if I have endometriosis?
The following is a short list of chemicals to avoid if you or a family member has been diagnosed with endometriosis or trying to conceive:
Dioxins: Found in non-organic beef, poultry, and dairy products. Dioxins are also found in bleach and chlorine products, bleached toilet paper, sanitary napkins, and tampons.
BPA: Found in water bottles, baby bottles, canned food, and more. BPA increases insulin resistance and mimics estrogen.
Xenoestrogens: Found in plastic bottles, wraps, and food storage containers.
Parabens: Found in perfumes, bath and body products, cosmetics, and a myriad of other products
PCBs: Found in pesticides, paints, fire retardants, and wood floor finishings.
PVCs: Found in water-proof rain gear, shower curtains, vinyl flooring, and toys.
What can I do to avoid these chemicals in my home?
Patients often feel overwhelmed at the prospect of trying to reduce chemicals in their lives. I recommend starting small and focusing on one area at a time. This may include choosing organic foods, eco-friendly cleaning products, organic personal care products, or water filtration. You can learn more about this issue in the How to Improve the Water Quality in Your Home article.
For example, start with your household cleaning products. Replace any chemical-containing solution with an eco-friendly alternative. You may find that the chemical-free choice often works better or just vinegar and water! One of my favorite books on this subject is the: The Naturally Clean Home. Each time you switch to an organic or better option, know that every change you make has a significant and lasting impact on your health and your family’s well-being.
If you found this article helpful, you may also be interested in our Create a Healthy & Chemical-Free Home article.
More About OMBE
OMBE is celebrating 15 years of service in Massachusetts! Additionally, we are now scheduling in-person acupuncture sessions for our South Shore and Cape Cod clients. Telehealth consultations are available for all of our Massachusetts clients living in the Boston area, North Shore, and Western Massachusetts.
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