Endometriosis is a painful and chronic condition that affects an estimated 10% of all women of reproductive age1. That said, despite years of research and several theories on the cause of endometriosis, it’s still not fully understood what causes it. What is clear, is that this condition is associated with inflammation, immune system dysfunction, and angiogenesis.
Angiogenesis is the development of new blood vessels. As a result, it’s an essential step in an endometrioma being able to both form, and survive within the body. Experimental studies done with a range of anti-angiogenic medications have demonstrated an ability to decrease endometrioma lesion size by reducing their blood supply1. This occurs by targeting some of the pro-angiogenic factors that are elevated in endometriosis. These include VEGF, IL-8, angiogenin and TNF- α1.
Looking at therapies that have anti-angiogenic properties could be a potential treatment option for endometriosis. In fact, one of the most studied natural options for endometriosis, Resveratrol, shows promise as an anti-angiogenic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-oxidant.