Dietary Interventions and Lifestyle Factors in Endometriosis: A Scoping Review of Their Impact on Inflammation, Pain, Fertility and Quality of Life

Abstract

Background. Endometriosis is a chronic, estrogen-dependent inflammatory disease affecting approximately 10% of women of reproductive age worldwide. Chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, immune dysregulation and hormonal imbalance contribute to disease progression, pain, infertility and reduced quality of life. Increasing evidence suggests that dietary interventions may play a supportive role in the management of endometriosis by modulating inflammatory pathways and improving clinical outcomes.

Aim. The aim of this scoping review was to examine the role of diet and physical activity in modulating inflammation and symptoms in women with endometriosis, with particular focus on dietary patterns, nutritional supplementation and their impact on pain, fertility and quality of life.

Material and methods. A literature search was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar databases. Articles published in English between 2017 and 2026 were screened using keywords related to endometriosis, diet, inflammation, pain, fertility, physical activity and nutritional supplementation. Thirty studies meeting the inclusion criteria were included in the final review.

Results. The findings suggest that anti-inflammatory dietary patterns, particularly the Mediterranean diet, may reduce inflammation and improve symptom control in women with endometriosis. Selected nutritional supplements, including omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D in deficient individuals, and polyphenols, may have potential supportive effects, although the available evidence remains inconsistent.

Conclusions. Dietary and lifestyle interventions may represent valuable complementary approaches in endometriosis management, and further high-quality prospective studies are needed to establish evidence-based nutritional recommendations.