ENDOMETRIOSIS
Uterus and endometrial plaques
ENDOMETRIOSIS
Endometriosis is a complex gynaecological disorder characterized by the presence of endometrial-like tissue outside the uterus, leading to various symptoms and complications.
It affects approximately 10% of women worldwide and is a leading cause of pelvic pain and infertility.
Despite its prevalence, endometriosis often takes an average of 7 to 10 years to diagnose due to its nonspecific symptoms and lack of definitive diagnostic tests.
Many women may not get a diagnosis, and continue to suffer in extreme pain, experiencing many different issues, while trying to continue with their everyday lives.
Just because you have had a clear ultrasound, or MRI, doesn’t mean that you don’t have endometriosis. Endometriosis is sneaky and can hide behind many other pelvic organs – causing severe pain, digestive issues, leg pain, gut pain and much more.
If you think you may have endometriosis – please reach out to us, and don’t stop until you get a diagnosis and help!
Period pain – a woman lying on the couch in severe pain
Endometriosis in Western Medicine:
Endometriosis is defined as the presence of endometrial-like tissue outside the uterus, commonly found on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and pelvic peritoneum.
This tissue responds to hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle, leading to inflammation, scarring, and adhesions, causing symptoms such as pelvic pain, dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia, and infertility.
Common Symptoms and Signs:
– Pelvic pain, often worsening during menstruation
– Heavy or irregular menstrual bleeding
– Painful intercourse
– Infertility
– Fatigue
– Gastrointestinal symptoms such as bloating, diarrhoea, or constipation
– Painful urination or bowel movements during menstruation
Treatment Approaches:
Western medicine treatments for endometriosis include:
– Pain management with NSAIDs or hormonal therapies (e.g., oral contraceptives, GnRH agonists, the Mirena IUD)
– Surgical interventions such as laparoscopy to remove endometrial implants or hysterectomy in severe cases
– Fertility treatments for those struggling with infertility due to endometriosis
Endometriosis in Traditional Chinese Medicine:
In TCM, endometriosis is often categorized under the umbrella of “Blood Stagnation” or “Blood Stasis” disorders. The pattern is caused by the Qi and Blood circulation in the pelvis becoming obstructed, leading to the accumulation of stagnant Blood and the manifestation of symptoms.
Common Patterns Seen in TCM:
– Liver Qi Stagnation with Blood Stasis
– Spleen Qi Deficiency leading to Dampness and Phlegm accumulation
– Kidney Yang Deficiency with Cold in the Uterus
Acupuncture, medicine
A woman undergoes stomach acupuncture, a time-honoured medicinal practice.
TCM Treatment Approaches:
– Regulate Qi and Blood circulation using acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine to alleviate pain and reduce stagnation.
– Strengthen the Spleen and Kidney to resolve Dampness and nourish Yin.
– Warm the uterus and dispel Cold using moxibustion or herbal formulas.
– Address emotional factors such as stress and anxiety, which can exacerbate Liver Qi Stagnation.
Dietary Recommendations in TCM:
– Emphasize warming, nourishing foods such as ginger, cinnamon, and lamb to support Yang energy and dispel Cold.
– Avoid cold and raw foods, dairy, and greasy or spicy foods, which can exacerbate Dampness and Blood Stagnation.
Qi Gong Exercises for Endometriosis:
– Gentle exercises such as Tai Chi or Qi Gong can promote Qi and Blood circulation, alleviate stress, and improve overall well-being.
– Specific Qi Gong exercises for the lower abdomen and pelvic region can help to release tension and stagnation in the area.
Moxibustion for Warming the uterus.
A burining moxa stick sitting on a moxa hokder
Moxibustion is a warming herb ( Ai YE) also known as mugwort.
Moxa – is used to place warmth into the uterus to reduce cold. Cold often causes pain and blood to congeal and clot ( causing plaques of endometriosis).
By warming the uterus, cold is replaced with warmth which enables blood to flow more freely. Warmth may also assist with severe pain.
Moxa may be applied directly to the stomach, using small moxa cones or a moxa stick. Moxa may also be applied to other points on the bottom of the feet, the lower legs and the knee area.
Assisting with other symptoms and mental health.
Happy healthy digestion
As we have mentioned above – many other symptoms can be present alongside endometriosis.
In fact, many women who experience digestive issues, and have a history of IBS – may also have endometriosis.
This is a red flag for me.
TCM uses its diagnostic theory to treat the individual and what is out of balance within their bodies – in this regard – while assisting with endometriosis we are also looking holistically at the body.
We are investigating other symptoms that may be present. Mental health is also a huge part of endometriosis with anxiety and depression being extremely high with our clients.
Mainly, due to the severity of the pain as well as their having had many issues – which no one seems to be able to help with – all of this can, over time, lead to depression, anxiety and a fear of doctors, as well as fatigue.
This is where Chinese medicine shines – as we can treat the whole body and bring it back into harmony – rather than just a part of the body.
Conclusion
Endometriosis is a multifaceted condition that requires a comprehensive approach to management. While Western medicine offers effective symptom relief and surgical options, Traditional Chinese Medicine provides valuable insights into underlying imbalances and offers holistic treatments aimed at restoring harmony to the body.
Integrating both approaches, along with lifestyle modifications and dietary changes, can provide women with endometriosis with a more comprehensive and effective treatment strategy.
If you or someone that you know is suffering from endometriosis or severe period pain – please share this article with them – even if they don’t have a diagnosis – but tick a lot of the boxes for the symptoms of endometriosis – it may get them thinking.
As it can take 7- 10 years to be diagnosed with endometriosis – now is the time to take action. Enough is enough. Women need assistance and being in constant pain should not be tolerated.
Traditional Chinese medicine has a long history of treating many of the patterns that are associated with endometriosis.
At Rebalance Chinese Medicine – we work with you and your health team of specialists to provide you with the best care available.
Do you need help?
Call us on 0412 789 772
Book an appointment with us – choose the female hormone initial consultation
