Yoga for Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a gynecological problem in which the endometrial tissues, which are normally found in the uterine cavity, are found in other locations of the body. According to the Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences, infertility and endometriosis are closely related to each other.
Endometriosis is considered as one of the leading causes of persistent pelvic pain, infertility, and dysmenorrhea, which is characterized by painful periods. The condition may be associated with different stages of pain, and if not treated in the proper time, may cause severe complications.
Yoga for Endometriosis
The endometrium normally lines the internal walls of the uterus.
The lining superficially splits off during the periodic hormonal events and is shed along with the menstrual flow. The superficial endometrial lining again restores, and the cycle takes place normally. However, in endometriosis, endometrial tissues are found in other parts of the body such as the ovaries, fallopian tubes, uterosacral ligament, sigmoid colon, posterior broad ligament, round ligament, appendix, etc.
Some of the symptoms of endometriosis include:
- Consistent pelvic pain
- Pain during sexual intercourse (dyspareunia)
- Painful bowel movements, at times
- Abdominal swelling
- Stool or urine containing blood
Yoga therapy can be used as an alternative endometriosis management tool so as to increase the quality of life for women suffering from the condition. In addition to using the prescribed allopathic medications, women can get relief from the symptoms by practicing certain yoga steps under proper supervision.
Yoga poses to cure Endometriosis
- Viparita Karani (Upside Down Seal pose)
- Banda Konasana (Bound Angle Pose)
- Setu Bandha (Bridge Pose)
- Supt Virasana (Reclined Hero Pose)
- Sarvangasana(Shoulder Stand)
- Marichyasana (Marichi’s Pose)
How effective is yoga for endometriosis?
Higher stress levels may aggravate the condition as a result of the secretion of the excess stress hormones. Yoga is a good stress-buster and helps to manage the condition. Yoga helps to create an effective coordination between the mind and body, and enhances the healing. Yoga helps to therapeutically treat the various menstrual symptoms through the implementation of different breathing exercises. According to the Sexuality, Reproduction and Menopause issue published in SciVerse ScienceDirect Journal, practicing yoga and meditation techniques can really be helpful for women who experience different infertility challenges. Some yoga poses help to optimize the endocrine system of the body, thereby balancing the hormonal changes.
Yoga poses to avoid
Certain yoga poses such as "Bound Angle" pose and “Shoulder Stand” should be avoided during the active menstrual cycle. Also, certain poses such as Uddiyana Bandha (Abdominal Lock) should be avoided if you have endometriosis. It is always recommended to practice yoga under the supervision of well experienced yoga instructors.
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