Exploring the benefits of acupuncture and Chinese medicine for endometriosis

Endometriosis is a chronic and often debilitating condition that affects a staggering 1 in 7 Australian girls and women, which is why awareness of the condition in Australia is growing. While medications and surgery can help some, for others it doesn’t, which is why many women are seeking alternative and complementary treatments, such as acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine to alleviate their symptoms.

A brief look at endometriosis

In simple terms, endometriosis occurs when tissue that normally lines the inside of the uterus, called the endometrium, begins to grow outside the uterus. These growths can cause severe pain, particularly during menstrual periods and can lead to other symptoms such as fatigue, digestive issues and infertility.

While the above provides a simple explanation, in reality endometriosis is a complex condition. The endometrial-like tissue can be found on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, outer surface of the uterus and other organs within the pelvis. The misplaced tissue acts like normal endometrial tissue – it thickens, breaks down, and bleeds with each menstrual cycle. However, because it has no way to exit the body, it becomes trapped, leading to inflammation, cysts, scar tissue and adhesions.

The primary symptom of endometriosis is pelvic pain, which often correlates with the menstrual cycle, though women may also experience pain during intercourse, bowel movements and urination.

Treatment is also complex. As highlighted by Endometriosis Australia, ‘there is no best treatment, since treatments will work differently for each individual with endometriosis.’

Medications and surgery are two of the three treatments to alleviate endometriosis symptoms. The third is complimentary treatments, which includes acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine.

Acupuncture and endometriosis

Acupuncture, a key component of traditional Chinese medicine, involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body to balance the flow of energy, or qi. This ancient practice has been used for thousands of years to treat various ailments, including chronic pain conditions.

Recent research suggests that acupuncture can be beneficial for managing endometriosis in four key ways:

1. Acupuncture is known for its analgesic effects. It stimulates the release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, and modulates pain pathways in the central nervous system. By targeting specific acupuncture points, practitioners can help reduce the severity and frequency of pain associated with endometriosis.
2. Endometriosis is often accompanied by inflammation in the pelvic region. Acupuncture has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects, helping to reduce the inflammatory response and alleviate pain.
3. One theory behind endometriosis is that it is linked to blood stasis or poor blood circulation in the pelvic area. Acupuncture can improve blood flow, ensuring that oxygen and nutrients reach the affected tissues and help promote healing.
4. Hormonal imbalances are common in women with endometriosis. Acupuncture can help regulate hormone levels, particularly estrogen, which is known to exacerbate the symptoms of endometriosis. 

Traditional Chinese medicine and endometriosis

Traditional Chinese medicine offers a holistic approach to treating endometriosis, addressing the root cause of the condition rather than just the symptoms. Traditional Chinese medicine practitioners use a combination of acupuncture, herbal medicine, dietary recommendations and lifestyle changes to restore balance within the body.

Here’s are three key ways Traditional Chinese medicine can help manage endometriosis:

• Traditional Chinese medicine utilises a wide range of herbs to treat endometriosis. These herbs can help reduce inflammation, alleviate pain, regulate the menstrual cycle and improve overall health.
• Practitioners often recommend dietary changes to support the treatment of endometriosis. This may include avoiding cold and raw foods, which are believed to stagnate blood flow, and incorporating warming and nourishing foods to promote healthy circulation.
• Traditional Chinese medicine will often advocate gentle exercises to improve overall health, reduce stress and enhance the flow of qi and blood in the body. Regular practice can help alleviate some of the symptoms associated with endometriosis.

Melbourne Acupuncture and Wellness Centre

At the Melbourne Acupuncture and Wellness Centre, led by Farzaneh Ghaffari, we specialise in using acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine to treat a variety of health conditions, including endometriosis.

With nearly 20 years of experience, Farzaneh is a dedicated acupuncturist and Chinese Medical Practitioner who combines her extensive knowledge and compassionate care to help patients manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.

If you are struggling with endometriosis and looking for a natural, holistic approach to treatment, consider exploring acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine. These therapies offer a safe and effective way to manage pain, reduce inflammation and restore balance within the body.

Visit our website Melbourne Acupuncture and Wellness Centre or call Farzaneh today on 0416 561 277. Learn more about how we can help you on your journey to better health.