Popularly known as ‘chocolate cyst’, diagnosis of endometriosis takes a long time – almost a decade, thus greatly affecting a woman’s quality of life and some of the common symptoms seen in women going through this disorder include extremely painful periods with pelvic and lower back pain. , pain during or after sex, excessive bleeding, digestive problems, painful urination, fatigue, depression or anxiety, and abdominal bloating and nausea. It is a medical condition in which the lining of the uterus, known as the endometrium, grows outside the uterus, fallopian tubes, vagina, cervix or even of the bladder or rectum and since women are not very aware of the condition, there is a delay in the diagnosis of it and may have to suffer from a poor quality of life.

In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr. Sushruta Mokadam, Senior Consultant Obstetrician and Gynecologist at Maternity Hospital, Pune, said, “Endometriosis is a condition characterized by chronic pain and risk of infertility which interferes with the affected woman’s daily routine. . Inflammation is the biggest contributor to pain. It is influenced by lifestyle, diet and hormones.

She listed some lifestyle modifications to stay healthy in this state and insisted on following them without further ado:

1. Diet – (i) Foods to eat: Whole fruits like vegetables, grains, fiber, nuts, legumes and millet, healthy fats/omega 3 like walnuts, flax, chia seeds, salmon and olive oil, vegetables with vitamin B, anti-inflammatory foods like turmeric, lemon, and coconut oil, iron-rich foods like eggs, fish, and leafy vegetables .

(ii) Foods to avoid: Processed foods with additives and monosodium glutamate, caffeine, colas, alcohol, red meat, high fat foods and sugary foods.

2. Physical exercise – It can help you manage symptoms such as pain and stress. Avoid strenuous activities. Try walking, yoga, swimming, aerobics or cycling. Exercising daily will also help you maintain an optimal weight.

3. Good quality sleep – Sleep deprivation will impact the endocrine system, which will then lead to altered hormone secretion patterns. Try to sleep at least 8 hours a day.

4. Holistic Healing – Relieve stress and stay positive.