New Endometriosis Pill: Is it Safe?
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Shocking side effects including early menopause!
A new pill for treating endometriosis has been approved for use on the NHS in England and is being hailed as a potentially life-transforming treatment for women with this debilitating condition.
Endometriosis is a painful, systemic inflammatory condition affecting millions of women, where tissue similar to the womb lining grows outside the uterus, leading to chronic pain, fatigue and fertility issues.
The medication, known as relugolix-estradiol-norethisterone, is the first of its kind and is being offered to a limited group of women who have exhausted other medical and surgical treatment options.
If endometriosis is taking over your life and you’re struggling with relentless pain and heavy periods, it’s important to consider the side effects, including early menopause, before deciding if this treatment is right for you. Here, we break it down and explain the naturopathic approach to addressing endometriosis.
How does the endometriosis pill work?
Relugolix-estradiol-norethisterone is a combination medication designed to manage the symptoms of endometriosis by regulating hormone levels. Relugolix is a gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonist, which works by suppressing the production of oestrogen and progesterone, hormones that fuel the growth of endometrial tissue outside the uterus.
Since long-term oestrogen suppression can lead to bone density loss and other side effects, synthetic oestrogen and progesterone are added to the medication to counteract these effects. However, they do not fully replicate the body’s natural hormonal fluctuations. This contradictory approach – shutting down hormone production only to reintroduce synthetic versions – raises concerns about its long-term impact on women’s health.
What are the side effects?
Firstly, like any medication, it does not address the root cause of endometriosis. As with other hormonal treatments, including the oral contraceptive pill (OCP), suppressing hormones can create further imbalances, leading to additional health concerns. The side effects of Relugolix-estradiol-norethisterone include:
Hot flushes – By reducing oestrogen production, this medication mimics a menopausal state, disrupting temperature regulation and causing sudden warmth and sweating.
Early menopause – Prolonged suppression of natural oestrogen production could, in some cases, lead to early menopause. While the medication includes oestradiol to counterbalance hormone loss, it may not fully restore natural hormonal rhythms, potentially triggering menopausal symptoms earlier than expected.
Headaches – Hormonal fluctuations affect blood vessels in the brain, which can lead to headaches or even migraines.
Nausea – Changes in hormone levels can impact digestion and gut motility, making nausea a common side effect.
Mood swings and depression – Disruptions in neurotransmitter regulation can influence mood, potentially leading to anxiety, irritability or depression.
Bone density loss with long-term use – Oestrogen plays a crucial role in maintaining bone strength. Without adequate levels, bone mineral density can decline, increasing the risk of osteoporosis.
Increased risk of cardiovascular issues – The cardiovascular system relies on hormonal balance for optimal function. Suppressing oestrogen long-term may contribute to blood pressure changes and an elevated risk of heart disease or blood clots.
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CNM’s naturopathic approach for endometriosis
Suppression of hormones may offer temporary relief, but it doesn’t address the root causes of endometriosis and can potentially worsen the condition in the long run. A naturopathic approach focuses on treating the underlying triggers of the disease to promote healing.
Things to eliminate:
- Processed foods, including sugary snacks, fizzy drinks, and ready-made or microwave meals.
- Stimulants including as coffee, alcohol, cigarettes and vapes.
- Dairy products (e.g., cow’s milk) and wheat for two weeks to assess their impact on your symptoms.
- Overeating – stick to three meals a day and limit snacking.
- Fried foods, crisps and unhealthy oils. Instead, use healthier oils like extra virgin olive oil or cold-pressed flaxseed oil, adding them after cooking to preserve their nutritional value.
Dietary changes to focus on:
- Following CNM’s Naturopathic Diet, which emphasises whole, organic and seasonal foods is a great starting point. Since chronic inflammation plays a major role in endometriosis symptoms, it’s important to include anti-inflammatory, nutrient-dense foods.
- These include leafy greens, nuts, seeds, wild-caught fish, flaxseeds and antioxidant-rich berries.
- Incorporate steamed vegetables and hearty salads for nutrient-dense, wholesome meals.
- Kitchen herbs like turmeric, ginger and garlic also offer powerful anti-inflammatory benefits.
- Drink filtered water and enjoy gentle, soothing teas like chamomile and peppermint to support digestion.
Castor oil packs are a traditional remedy to support the body in healing. They help reduce inflammation and pain associated with endometriosis, and promote circulation to the pelvic area. To use: Apply a warm, soaked castor oil cloth to the abdomen and leave it on for 30 – 60 minutes, 2 – 3 times per week.You can learn more about the benefits of castor oil packs and how to use them effectively here.
Managing pain and cramps:
A strict naturopathic diet can help alleviate pain, with magnesium being a key nutrient to help relax muscles and reduce cramping. Focus on magnesium-rich foods like leafy greens (spinach, kale), almonds, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, avocados and whole grains such as quinoa and brown rice. For some women, supplementation with magnesium citrate or glycinate may be necessary to reach the optimal 300 – 400 mg per day, depending on individual needs.
Detoxing your body:
Supporting liver detoxification is essential as the liver plays a vital role in processing and eliminating excess hormones and toxins from the body. Foods like cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower), garlic and healthy fats support liver function. Consider adding herbs like milk thistle and dandelion root to help enhance liver detox pathways. These herbs can be taken as teas or, for a more concentrated dose, in tincture or liquid extract form. Tinctures offer a more potent and easily absorbed form of the herb, making them ideal for those who need a higher dose for liver support. However, the exact dosage can vary depending on individual needs and health conditions, so it’s best to consult with a qualified herbalist for personalised recommendations and guidance on proper usage.
Address gut health:
The gut microbiome influences oestrogen levels and impacts hormone regulation. An imbalance in gut bacteria can lead to excess oestrogen, worsening endometriosis symptoms.To support a healthy gut microbiome, incorporate probiotic-rich foods like kefir, sauerkraut and kimchi. Aim for about 1/2 cup to 1 cup of these fermented foods daily to help introduce beneficial bacteria into your gut. In addition, prebiotic foods like onions, garlic, leeks and asparagus help nourish the good bacteria. Try to include these in your meals regularly, aiming for at least one serving per day.
Address the root cause
Medications don’t address the root cause or promote true healing – they simply manage symptoms while introducing harmful side effects. The real solution lies in changing your diet and taking charge of your health. Consulting a naturopathic therapist, such as a Nutritionist, Herbalist, Acupuncturist or Homeopath, can provide the support and guidance you need. In fact, many people are so inspired by their own healing journeys that they choose to become therapists themselves.
Ready to take control of your endometriosis and start healing naturally?
Explore CNM’s courses on nutrition and herbal medicine to discover holistic strategies that can support your body, reduce symptoms and address the root causes of this condition. Or visit CNM’s student clinic, where you can have a consultation with our final-year students in a fully supervised clinic at a discounted rate. It’s a great way to explore natural therapies and take the first steps toward improving your health.
