As you know; my period started on Saturday, and so far I'm still doing OK. Granted, I was taking the pill up to that evening (leaving me confused as to why/how it started, but also making me think that it’s possible things haven't hit full swing yet); but so far, I’m feeling good. No crazy over the top cramps, no throwing up; no typical endo symptoms that I usually get with my period.
Which has me thinking (hoping, praying, wishing, dreaming) that maybe my current treatment plan is working.
Leaving me wondering if I shouldn't share my current plan with all of you, in case there are those of you currently looking for ways to treat endo more naturally as well.
I do want to point out that I am still on the pill as an extra precaution, but that the pill never before worked to treat my endo on it's own. In fact, I was on the pill for treatment prior to both of my surgeries – and I was still in a great deal of pain.
The Lupron absolutely worked to ease my pain, but it came equipped with all kinds of nasty side effects as well.
Meanwhile, my current more natural plan actually has me feeling good. My skin has gotten super clear (it was a mess on Lupron), my energy is up, and there is no doubt that I am having a fairly easy period.
So, if you ask me; I’m going to have to say that natural treatment is the way to go. That is, of course, just for me. I am not a doctor and I don’t for one second claim to be in a position to give anyone else any medical advice. I also feel strongly that endo is not a one size fits all disease, and that treatment plans have to vary based on the individual.
But for me, this is working.
You all know (more or less) what my diet is looking like right now. I do really think that is a big part of the current success. The cleanse I did was called MetaCleanse, and it's my understanding that anyone could purchase it. The purpose of the 3 week cleanse is to clear out all the extra toxins so that your liver can be working at full capacity. For those of you who don't know, your liver is responsible for managing those bad estrogens in your system, so keeping it healthy is crucial. From there though, I have remained dairy free and gluten limited. There is nothing about it that is easy unfortunately. A total diet change is never easy. But, if it’s working (which I have to say – I feel like it is), then I truly believe it’s worth it. I would take a complete lifestyle change over more surgery or chemicals in my body any day.
Alongside the diet changes though, I am also taking quite a few supplements. All were recommended by my naturopath, and I take all with her explicit direction and guidance. Again, I want to point out that I am not a doctor and no one should take something just because I’m taking it. Do your own research, consult with your own physicians, and then go from there!
OK, now that the disclaimer is out of the way; here is what I’m taking:
Turska’s Formula – This is a tincture that is actually mixed personally by my naturopath. I’m honestly not sure where someone else could buy something like this, but I have read about it online so I do know it’s available in other places! I take 5 drops under my tongue (it's pretty strong, but under my tongue and then followed immediately by water I can’t taste it!) first thing when I wake up, at lunchtime, and then just before bed. I will need to stop taking this when I start the hormone injections for my next round.
Indolplex – I take 2 of these with breakfast every morning. I will need to stop taking it when I start the hormone injections for my next round.
Saw Palmetto – I take 2 of these first thing in the morning, and again just before bed. I will need to stop taking it when I start the hormone injections for my next round.
Pro Omega Fish Oil – I take 2 with breakfast and 2 with dinner.
B-Complex – I take 1 with breakfast every morning.
Vitamin C (1000 mg) – I take 1 with breakfast and 1 with dinner.
Vitamin D3 – I take 5000IU every night with dinner (because it is best digested when taken with a fat, and I’m more likely to have a fat with dinner).
I also take WestThroid ½ grain for my thyroid, and have been advised by both my naturopath and RE to continue that through my next IVF cycle (pending monitoring of my levels of course). And, I still take a Rainbow Light prenatal vitamin every night before bed too - still in preparation for that baby that sticks!
That's it. I think I finally have it down to the point where I don’t have to look at a cheat sheet every time I try to remember how much of everything I’m supposed to take and when – but it took me a few weeks. I definitely feel like an old lady in need of one of those pill organizers, but if it’s working – that really is all that matters to me.
I have an ultrasound in 2 weeks that will hopefully confirm that it is. Until then though, I'm taking this easy period as a good sign.
Embracing the small gifts as they come, and being thankful for something that seems to be doing the trick.
