Are you a dietitian or health professional working with patients diagnosed with endometriosis?
The Monash FODMAP team has created a 6-hour online course focused on the dietary management of endometriosis, in particular, managing the gastrointestinal symptoms that are so common in this condition.
Endometriosis affects around 10% of women worldwide and over ¾ women with this condition report experiencing IBS-like gastrointestinal symptoms. This course equips dietitians with the knowledge and practical skills to assist patients with endometriosis to manage their condition using a dietary approach.
Dietitians who take the course will learn about the pathophysiology, diagnosis and management of endometriosis; the overlapping gastrointestinal symptoms that are so often present in endometriosis; and about the evidence supporting (or refuting) the range of dietary interventions commonly used to manage this condition.
In particular, the course focuses on managing gastrointestinal symptoms that are so common in endometriosis. Dietitians learn about the dietetic assessment process, including the evaluation of menstrual cycles, endometriosis symptoms, GI symptoms, dietary intake, lifestyle factors and red flags for comorbid conditions. It also summarises recent evidence supporting the efficacy of a low FODMAP diet for endometriosis and discusses the application of this 3-step approach in clinical practice.
The 6 hour course is available entirely online. Dietitians can complete the course at their own pace, over 9 months. Interactive elements throughout the course support learning, including infographics, downloadable materials, reading exercises, question-answer flip cards and a final exam.
Everyone who passes the final exam is issued with a certificate of completion. Health professionals can use this certificate to claim 6 CPE units with their member association.
Learning outcomes:
- To understand the pathophysiology, prevalence, symptoms, diagnostic challenges, and management options for endometriosis
- To understand the nutritional interventions commonly used to manage endometriosis and the evidence supporting these practices
- To understand how to conduct a comprehensive dietetic assessment for individuals with endometriosis to inform the development of a personalised nutrition care plan.
- To identify and explain the gastrointestinal symptoms associated with endometriosis, their underlying mechanisms, and the overlap with IBS to enhance dietetic assessment and management.
- To understand how to implement a Step 1 low FODMAP diet in individuals with endometriosis and GI symptoms, including food selection, label reading, cooking techniques and symptom monitoring and troubleshooting strategies.
- To understand how to implement Steps 2 and 3 of the FODMAP diet in individuals with endometriosis and GI symptoms
Course Overview
Module 1 - Introduction to Endometriosis
This module describes the pathophysiology, prevalence, major symptoms and quality of life impact of endometriosis. Risk factors for the development of this condition are explored, along with what is known about the prevention of endometriosis.Diagnostic methods, red flags that clinicians should look out for, problems with delayed diagnosis of endometriosis and treatment/management options are also covered.
Module 2 - Dietary management of endometriosis
This module describes how endometriosis symptoms and treatments can impact nutritional intake. Commonly used dietary approaches and nutritional supplements are explored, along with an evaluation of the evidence supporting these approaches.
Module 3 - Bowel and GI symptoms in endometriosis
This module describes the GI symptoms often present in endometriosis; what is known about the causes of these symptoms; and the effect of the menstrual cycle on GI symptoms. The overlapping symptoms between endometriosis and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) are also explored.
Module 4 - Dietetic assessment
This module describes the initial dietetic assessment that should be undertaken before a FODMAP diet is commenced in patients with endometriosis. Topics covered include the clinical assessment (including bowel and gastrointestinal symptoms, family history, medical history, menstrual cycle, clinical investigations and red flags); dietary assessment (including intake of fibre, fluid, FODMAPs, and known or suspected dietary triggers); potential compliance issues and exercise habits.
Module 5 - Step 1 low FODMAP diet and practical skills
This module provides practical ideas about how to implement the Step 1 low FODMAP diet. Topics covered include how to educate patients about FODMAP actions in the gut; how to use the Monash University Low FODMAP Diet App correctly; cooking and recipe modification techniques; food label reading for FODMAPs; eating out and travelling on a FODMAP diet; individualising Step 1 and how to troubleshoot when a patient does not respond to a low FODMAP diet.
Module 6 - Steps 2 and 3 - FODMAP Reintroduction and Personalisation
This module discusses the reintroduction and personalisation steps of the FODMAP diet. Topics covered include the rationale for reintroducing FODMAPs; evidence to support a reintroduction protocol; different reintroduction approaches; individualising Steps 2 and 3; interpreting challenge responses and diet for long-term bowel health.
CPE units / CPD hours
- US registered Dietitians - 6 CPEUs pre-approved by the Commission on Dietetic Registration
- All other registered Dietitians and health professionals - 6 CPD hours
Course fees
- USD $100 (for all enrolments outside of Australia)
- AUD $150 (incl GST) (for all enrolments in Australia)
Course completion is due 9 months from time of registration and payment.
Sign up to gain the skills to help your endometriosis patients
Contact us
Still got questions? Email us at courseenquiry@monashfodmap.com