Endometriosis and Weight Gain: What You Need to Know – Insights from Dr. Priyadatt Patel
Understanding Endometriosis and Weight Gain
From my experience as a gynecologist, one of the most recurrent issues that patients suffering from endometriosis bring to me is whether this condition can lead to weight gain. Not all women with endometriosis have to deal with this issue; however, weight fluctuations tend to occur due to multiple reasons directly associated with the condition. In this article, I will discuss how endometriosis could lead to weight changes and most importantly, how those changes can be dealt with.
Can Endometriosis Cause Weight Gain?
Endometriosis is a multisystem disorder that can affect the body in varying ways, including disrupting the hormonal balance, affecting the gastrointestinal tract, and causing inflammation among other internal processes. While some women will struggle with weight gain, others may find themselves shedding pounds because of nausea and digestive distress. Because the symptoms may differ for each individual, finding the factors behind them is key.
Key Factors That May Contribute to Weight Changes
Endo Belly and Bloating Endometriosis has many symptoms, and bloating which is commonly called “endo belly” is one of the most common ones. This expansion is further enabled by the retention of fluids, inflammation, and even distension of the stomach wall. A symptom usually associated with endometriosis, bowel obstruction may also play a role in making bloating, which is usually the highest in severity just before one’s period, worse.
Hormonal Imbalances
People who have endometriosis have a hard time managing weight due to issues related to hormonal balance and chronic stress. They experience a rise in estrogen levels which leads to weight gain, particularly in the waist area. Obesity is also a problem as high levels of estrogen make it incredibly difficult to metabolize fat.
Medication Side Effects
Birth control pills, IUDs, and hormone therapy are the most common prescriptions for women suffering from endometriosis. These drugs tend to postpone a woman’s fertility as well as greatly change her appetite and weight. Discuss fluid retention and constant weight changes with your doctor to identify a different program that works best for you.
Managing Weight with Endometriosis
If you are afflicted with endometriosis and cannot manage your weight, consider these methods:
- Follow an Anti-Inflammatory Diet.
An endometriosis-afflicted patient can find relief by following a diet that counteracts inflammation. Such a diet should include:
Healthy Fats: Salmon, walnuts, and flax-seed provide omega-3 fatty acids that help get rid of inflammation.
Fiber Rich Foods: Leafy greens, beans, berries, and whole grains help with digestion and lessen bloating.
Avoid Processed Foods: Low sugar and processed foods help lessen weight gain and bloating.
- Exercise Regularly
Regular physical activity should be maintained to help regulate hormones, reduce weight, and manage inflammation. Walk, swim, cycle, do yoga, and engage in any other exercise that keeps the body moving for at least 150 minutes every week. If the user experiences pain while trying to do intensive workouts, they may opt for less strenuous exercises instead.
- Manage Stress and Mental Health
Chronic pain, combined with emotional distress invariably leads to weight gain. Controlling weight can be achieved through mindfulness and meditation, which in turn helps lower cortisol levels and improve one’s health.
- Consult Your Healthcare Provider
Effective management of endometriosis might require multispecialty treatment and lifestyle changes. Talk to a trusted physician to get any advanced treatment options and medications that may not be responding to lifestyle adjustments.
Conclusion
Endometriosis weight gain, like any other side effect, is not universal. Factors like bloating, hormonal shifts, and medications usually lead to increased weight. A good diet, along with consistent exercise and stress management can greatly enhance your life and make weight gain more manageable.
Weight gain concerns among women suffering from endometriosis is very common, that is why at Balaji Horizon Women’s Hospital, and we are always ready to help women.
For those living in Kutch or Bhuj, we recommend you take the special care and attention from our hospital in Ahmedabad.
Dr. Priyadatt Patel
Gynecologist
Balaji Horizon Women’s Hospital
