The Effect of Dietary Interventions, or no Intervention, on Pain and Quality of Life in Women Diagnosed With Endometriosis

The Effect of Dietary Interventions, or no Intervention, on Pain and Quality of Life in Women Diagnosed With Endometriosis

This prospective pilot study was performed to explore the influence of a dietary intervention, the Low FODMAP diet or endometriosis diet, on endometriosis-related pain and Quality of Life (QoL). Participants could choose between adherence to a diet; the Low FODMAP diet or endometriosis diet, or to contribute to the control group and not adhere to a diet.

This prospective pilot study was performed to explore the influence of a dietary intervention, the Low FODMAP diet or endometriosis diet, on endometriosis-related pain and Quality of Life (QoL). Participants could choose between adherence to a diet; the Low FODMAP diet or endometriosis diet, or to contribute to the control group and not adhere to a diet. Women choosing to adhere to a diet were extensively guided by a dietician in training. In addition, both groups are asked to complete three questionnaires over a period of six months; once every two months.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Women diagnosed with endometriosis, either through radiologic imaging (transvaginal ultrasound and/or MRI) or laparoscopy
• A reported pain score of ≥ 3 (Visual Analogue Score (VAS), scale 0-10cm) in one or more of the following symptoms: dysmenorrhea, deep dyspareunia and chronic pelvic pain

Exclusion Criteria:

• about to undergo an operation within six months
• Undergone an operation in the past six weeks
• a switch in hormonal therapy within six weeks
• Women that were pregnant or breastfeeding
• women diagnosed with a malignancy
• An additional diagnosis with Coeliac Disease (CD) and/or lactose intolerance.
• Not sufficient in the Dutch or English language.