Treating Endometriosis through Acupuncture and Natural Medicine

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Roughly 10–20% of women of childbearing age in the United States are affected by endometriosis.

Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine are one of the few all-natural treatments that can be profoundly effective for women suffering from endometriosis.

Endometriosis is a condition where the tissue that lines the endometrium grows outside of the uterus, which can be extremely painful and debilitating. The symptoms of this condition can include:

  • Irregular menstrual bleeding

  • Severe menstrual cramping

  • Difficulty conceiving

  • Pain after intercourse

  • Lower back pain

  • Fatigue

In Chinese medicine, endometriosis is seen as a sign of blood stagnation. This can be due to blood deficiency, kidney deficiency, or excessive internal cold. Each specific pattern tends to respond very well to treatment. Some cases of endometrial growth, however, are so pronounced that surgical intervention is necessary. Most mild to moderate cases can be treated with Chinese medicine.

The typical course of treatment for endometriosis with acupuncture is once a week for 6–8 visits, at which time we assess progress and discuss future treatment. Treatment time may be shortened if the patient is willing to take Chinese herbs and make dietary changes.

Dietary Recommendations

Along with acupuncture and herbs, it’s important to make the following dietary changes:

  • Avoid refined sugar

  • Reduce and minimize refined carbs

  • Reduce and minimize coffee and caffeine

  • Eat organic fruits and vegetables

  • Eat plenty of essential fats and good fats: fish, nuts, seeds, legumes

  • Eat only free-range/organic meats

Exercise

In addition to dietary changes, it is also important to exercise 3–4 times a week to maintain proper circulation of Qi and blood throughout the body.

Utilizing acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine can be a life-changing decision for many women suffering from endometriosis. When combined with a good diet and exercise, the root cause of this condition can often be healed.