N-acetylcysteine (NAC) Benefits for Endometriosis

N-acetylcysteine has gained a lot popularity for helping with the symptoms of endometriosis both among the medical profession and with those who suffer from endometriosis


N-acetylcysteine


NAC (N-acetylcysteine) is an antioxidant supplement showing promise for endometriosis by reducing inflammation, oxidative stress, cyst size, and pain. It may also improve fertility and offers a low-risk option with few side effects, though it should be discussed with a healthcare professional before use. 

How NAC may help with endometriosis

  • Reduces inflammation and oxidative stress: 

Endometriosis is associated with increased inflammation and oxidative stress, which NAC's properties can help counteract. 

  • Decreases cyst size: 

Studies have shown a reduction in the size of ovarian endometriomas in patients taking NAC compared to a control group. 

  • Alleviates pain: 

NAC treatment has been linked to a reduction in pain symptoms like dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia, and chronic pelvic pain. 

  • Improves fertility: 

Some studies observed a higher rate of pregnancy in women taking NAC who were trying to conceive. 

  • Lowers inflammatory markers: 

NAC has been found to lower the level of Ca125, a marker often elevated in endometriosis. 

How to take NAC for endometriosis

  • Discuss with a doctor: 

Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement to ensure it's appropriate for you and won't interact with other medications or health conditions. 

  • Typical dosage: 

A common protocol in studies involves taking 600mg of NAC three times a day, three days a week, for three months. 

  • Check for alternative sources: 

The amino acid cysteine, which NAC is derived from, is found in foods like eggs, dairy, and meat, though it is only found in supplements. 

Important considerations

  • NAC is not a cure for endometriosis and should be seen as a potential adjunct to traditional treatments like surgery or hormonal therapy. 
  • While studies report a lack of significant side effects, it is still crucial to speak with your doctor before starting NAC, especially if you are considering it to improve fertility


N-acetylcysteine for endometriosis


Clinical studies, primarily observational cohort studies from Italy, have demonstrated several benefits of NAC supplementation for women with endometriosis: 

  • Pain Reduction: Patients reported significant improvements in dysmenorrhea (painful periods), dyspareunia (painful intercourse), and chronic pelvic pain. This is likely due to its strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammatory cytokines associated with the condition.
  • Reduced Endometrioma Size: Ultrasound measurements showed a statistically significant reduction in the size of ovarian endometriomas in women taking NAC, whereas untreated cysts often increased in size. Many patients in these studies were able to cancel their scheduled laparoscopic surgeries due to these improvements.
  • Improved Fertility: In one study, 75% of women with a desire for pregnancy who were taking NAC achieved spontaneous pregnancy within six months, in stark contrast to hormonal therapies which prevent conception. NAC may improve the reproductive environment by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, which can negatively impact egg quality and implantation.

How It Works

NAC is an antioxidant and a precursor to glutathione, one of the body's primary antioxidants. In endometriosis, high levels of oxidative stress and inflammation contribute to the growth and pain of lesions. NAC helps by: 

  • Boosting glutathione levels to counteract oxidative stress.
  • Downregulating inflammatory proteins.
  • Decreasing cell proliferation and promoting the differentiation of endometriotic cells into a less invasive phenotype. 


As well as helping with endometriosis, there are many other health benefits to be gained from this supplement which include:

  • Reduce cysts
  • Reduces thyroid antibodies
  • Helps support healthy lungs
  • Can help treat lung issues like pneumonia, asthma
  • Good for brain health
  • Can calm the brain and help with sleep
  • Improve brain fog
  • May help with hair growth
  • Supports liver health
  • Helps to treat PCOS
  • Helps to increase glutathione
  • Great for detox
  • Can help with asthma


REMINDER - Recommended dosing of NAC to help with endometriosis

NAC dosing to reduce endometriomas should be taken at 600mg three times a day on three consecutive days per week (ie: Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday only)


https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3662115/