Endometriosis Support Group

Endometriosis is a common medical condition where the tissue lining the uterus is found outside of the uterus, typically affecting other organs in the pelvis. The condition can lead to serious health problems, primarily pain and infertility. A major symptom of endometriosis is pain, mostly in the lower abdomen, lower back, and pelvic area.

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BeachGirl410 09/20/2015

I was diagnosed with Endo in November of 2011 when I had a lap where they removed large endometriomas. Up until recently I didn't have many symptoms but lately I've noticed increase symptoms before my period (increased bowel movements, back pain, nausea, etc) and just in general. I have my yearly appointment with my Dr the beginning of November.

I've also noticed recently I've had an increase in stomach issues. My dad passed away in June and I know a lot of my stomach issues are due to anxiety but I'm wondering how much is related to Endo. I'll be fine some days and then have extremely loose stools for an entire day (sorry TMI). It seems like this is happening like once a week. It's becoming to the point where I've missed some work because I had to stay home running to the bathroom every 5 minutes. This past Friday that was the case. I've been keeping a food journal and after doing some research I figured its worth a shot to try a gluten free diet.

I've removed gluten from my diet and I'm just wondering if that can cause constipation until my body gets used to it. I started eating like this since I was sick on Friday and I haven't have a BM since I had all the diarrhea on Friday. So I'm not sure if this just has to do with being sick on Friday or what.

Any advice would be much appreciated. I'm so thankful to have this group.

Thank you!

deleted_user 09/21/2015

I have stomach issues as well, and I blame it on Endo. I became lactose intolerant about 2 years ago, and I'm so sensitive that even the small amount of milk in a fun-sized candy bar or bread will send me running to the bathroom. There's evidence that food intolerances and sensitivities can creep up when you have endo. Staying off of a certain food, such as gluten, for a minimum of 30 days should show a difference in how you feel if you are sensitive to it. If you don't notice a difference, try going off of dairy for 30 days next.

The constipation you're currently experiencing could be from being sick. After being "cleaned out" so to speak, it can take a few days to get back on track. Like you, I experience frequent loose stools and days where I have to go right away and it's very loose. No specific reason I can pin-point it to. When I have a particularly bad day of it, it may take a couple of days before I have another movement.

Also, anytime you change your diet it can cause digestive disturbances.

I'd highly recommend a probiotic. I started taking Natrol brand probiotic beads in the beginning of July and have seen a good improvement in my digestive symptoms. I take one every morning with water when I first get up. It hasn't solved all of my issues, but I will take any help I can get!

Keep us posted on if the gluten free diet helps. I know others have posted on here before that it helped them, so good luck!!

Perseveres 10/19/2015

Many people with inflammatory conditions (like Endo) are wheat sensitive, not actually gluten intolerant. I am wheat sensitive. Too much and I clog right up. Some people have the opposite effect. Other problem foods include, egg yolk or egg white, lactose in dairy, certain fruits and vegetables, legumes, and nuts.

I always suggest an elimination diet. The one that helped me the most was the "fodmap" diet but there are others out there you can try.

If you want to be sure, there is a gluten tolerance test you can do. I believe a doctor has to prescribed it. Otherwise, you can try eating spelt. I am allowed that as it is easier to digest than regular wheat. Life saver for me, as I don't know what I'd do without spelt tortillas! :)

BeachGirl410 10/21/2015

Thanks so much for your advice and replies ladyluna and perseveres! It's been a month since I started a "modified" gluten free diet, I couldn't bring myself to go 100% gluten free so I'm eating at least 2/3 gluten free. I can say I've seen a huge difference in how I feel! I haven't had any stomach issues like I was having and overall I feel so much better. I've also noticed a bit less in the dull ache pain I used to get in my abdomen and lower back. I definitely think it's a gluten sensitivity that I have.

I had 1 period so far since changing my diet and it was one of the easiest periods I've had in a LONG time, no crazy diarrhea or constipation and much reduced back pain. My next period is supposed to start tomorrow so here's hoping it's like my last one.

Thanks again ladies for your input!

KSprizzle89 12/22/2015

Drink some chia seeds. They help with digestion, help with having a bowel movement (really lube things up!), they are high in omega 3's and 6's which are great for endo and they give you energy! Gluten free helps, but really going wheat free is the best option. Dairy free helps, soy free is a must with endo! Soy is the fertilizer for endo! Preservative free helps. Sugar free helps.

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