Naturopathic Medicine for Endometriosis (NatME). Results of a pilot study

Background Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory condition characterised by pain and significant impacts on quality of life. Research shows women with endometriosis have unmet healthcare needs. Evidence also demonstrates naturopaths play an important role for women with endometriosis, and group visits are an effective model of care for chronic disease management. This study examines (a)the feasibility of a group visit model for delivering naturopathy to people with endometriosis, and (b)the preliminary effectiveness of the model. Methods a pilot feasibility study was delivered in four Australian locations. The intervention was a 12-week program comprising six visits, incorporating personalised naturopathic care and education within a supportive group environment. Outcomes were measured at baseline, end visit, and one-month follow-up. The study was registered February 2022 with Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN12622000222741). Results Thirty-one participants were enrolled. High levels of satisfaction with the program structure, content, and facilitators were observed with high retention rates. Participants agreed (96.3%) or mostly agreed (3.7%) naturopathic group visits are a good way of receiving care for endometriosis. In clinical outcomes statistically significant improvements in pain-related items across all validated measures (Endometriosis Health Profile [EHP-5] pain baseline to follow-up p = 0.003; Health-related Quality of Life pain/work baseline to follow-up p = < 0.003), as well as in all five items of the EHP-5 and across all 13 items on the Pain Catastrophizing Scale. Conclusion A group naturopathic intervention program for endometriosis may result in clinical improvement of endometriosis, and has been seen to be feasible and well-accepted for women with endometriosis.