Are NCA's the cure to Endometriosis??
Updated: Aug 6
What are NCA's?
In Australia, around 1 in 7 women and people assigned female at birth are diagnosed with endometriosis. Endometriosis is a chronic condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus (called lesions), often in the pelvic area, including on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, bowel, or bladder. This can lead to inflammation, scarring, and a wide range of symptoms.
Some people have no symptoms, but many experience pelvic or lower back pain, painful or heavy periods, bloating, bowel or bladder issues, pain during sex, and difficulty falling pregnant. Endometriosis can also impact mental health, contributing to anxiety and depression.
There’s currently no cure, so treatment focuses on managing symptoms. This may include pain relief, hormonal therapies, surgery, and support from health professionals such as pelvic floor physiotherapists or counsellors.
Where does NAC fit in?
N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is a supplement that has recently gained attention for its potential role in managing endometriosis. It acts as an antioxidant and helps the body produce glutathione, which is one of the bodies most important natural defences against inflammation and cell damage.
What does the research say?
A 2023 study looked at the effect of NAC supplements on 120 endometriosis patients aged between 18-45 years old, and a 2013 study looked at the effect on 92 endometriosis patients who had an average age of 32 years old. These clinical studies have shown promising results for people taking NAC supplements, including:
Reduced pelvic pain, period pain, and pain during sex
Less need for pain medication
Smaller endometriosis-related ovarian cysts (endometriomas)
Lower levels of inflammation
Improved chances of pregnancy in those trying to conceive
In these studies, many participants trying to conceive became pregnant within six months. This may be linked to reduced pain, improved comfort during sex and more frequent sex, increasing the likelihood of conception.
How is NAC taken?
In clinical studies, NAC was taken as an oral supplement at a dose of 600 mg, three times per week on consecutive days of the week, for three months. It’s important to note that this dosing is based on research protocols rather than official treatment guidelines.
Is it safe?
NAC is generally a well-tolerated supplement and considered very safe for many people. However, it’s important to speak with a health professional before starting any supplements and tell them about any other health conditions and medications and supplements you are taking.
The bottom line
NAC may be a simple and affordable endometriosis treatment option to support pain management and improve fertility alongside other standard treatments. With growing promising research behind it, it’s worth discussing with your healthcare professional as part of a personalised endometriosis care plan.
What does the research say?
A 2023 study looked at the effect of NAC supplements on 120 endometriosis patients aged between 18-45 years old, and a 2013 study looked at the effect on 92 endometriosis patients who had an average age of 32 years old. These clinical studies have shown promising results for people taking NAC supplements, including:
Less pain during sex
Less need for pain medication
Smaller endometriosis-related ovarian cysts (endo)
Lower levels of inflammation
So you're saying there is a chance...
The bottom line (how NCA can help manage endometriosis): NAC may be a simple and affordable endometriosis treatment option to support pain management. With growing promising research behind it, it’s worth discussing with your healthcare professional as part of a personalised endometriosis care plan.
Learn more and follow us at @the_pelvichealthhub
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