Nutritional Supplements in the Treatment of Endometriosis-Associated Symptoms: A Systematic Review.

Abstract

Lay summary: Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus (endometrium) grows outside the uterus, which can cause severe chronic pelvic pain, limit quality of life, and lead to infertility. In addition to standard medical treatment (painkillers or hormones), many patients with endometriosis use additional supplements, such as vitamins or antioxidants, to alleviate symptoms, but it is unclear how well these approaches work. In this study, we reviewed 24 clinical trials involving 2,019 women with endometriosis to evaluate the effects of dietary supplements. Some trials reported improvements in pain and quality of life, particularly with specially formulated curcumin or selenium, alone or alongside dienogest. Studies on fertility found improvements in some fertility-related measures, but these did not lead to higher pregnancy rates. Evidence on progression was limited: some combination treatments reduced ovarian endometriosis, but supplements did not reduce recurrence after surgery. Supplements may therefore support standard treatment but should not replace it.