Naturopathic knowledge and approaches to managing endometriosis: a cross-sectional survey of naturopaths with experience in endometriosis care

Abstract

Abstract Objectives Endometriosis is a chronic gynaecological disease with varying symptomatology and negative health outcomes. To ensure the best care for women with endometriosis, women require a multidisciplinary team approach. While some women consult with naturopaths for endometriosis, there has been little research on naturopathic knowledge and the naturopathic approach to endometriosis care. Methods This cross-sectional survey recruited naturopaths with experience in menstrual disorders from the Practitioner Research and Collaboration Initiative (PRACI) a Practice-Based Research Network (PBRN). Data collection was conducted via an online self-administrated 62-item questionnaire. Results Invitations were sent to 109 naturopaths who self-reported having experience in menstrual disorders, of whom 29 completed the survey (26.6% response rate). Naturopaths perceived endometriosis to be caused by inflammation (n=28, 96.5%) and risk factors associated with familial history (n=26, 89.6%). Many naturopaths aimed at reducing inflammation (n=27, 93.1%) and supporting gastrointestinal function (n=25, 86.2%) in their prescriptions. Naturopaths reported using various healthcare referrals to support women with endometriosis, primarily general practitioners (n=12, 41.3%), acupuncturists/Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioners (n=11, 37.9%), and gynaecologists (n=9, 31%). Naturopaths reported receiving referrals from general practitioners (n=8, 27.5%) and psychologists (n=6, 20.6%). Conclusions Naturopathic knowledge and management of endometriosis targets known problematic areas of endometriosis that can have debilitating effects on women’s quality of life. Naturopathic care has the potential to align with important health outcomes for women with endometriosis however, further attention is needed to assess the effectiveness and continue to establish a multidisciplinary approach involving naturopathic care.