Endometriosis and Adenomyosis
Endometriosis and Adenomyosis
In our clinic, we use both acupuncture and functional medicine to create a harmonious treatment plan to address the root issues causing endometriosis.
Endometriosis and Adenomyosis
At its simplest, endometriosis is the growth of uterine tissue outside of the uterus. It can occur in the abdominal cavity, ovaries and fallopian tubes, along the intestines, bladder, on the spine, and elsewhere. As uterine tissue, it fluctuates during a woman’s menstrual cycle leading to swelling, inflammation, bleeding, and – most notably – pain.
Sadly, there is little that conventional medicine can do for women suffering from these debilitating issues outside of hormone cocktails and surgery. Those affected by endometriosis may undergo multiple laparoscopic surgeries to remove the tissue growth, others may opt for a more definitive hysterectomy to end their symptoms. Those who are prescribed medications often experience side effects or have trouble finding a hormone balance that works for their unique condition.
The good news is that functional medicine and Chinese medicine are natural, effective approaches to both endometriosis and gynecological issues in general. Together, these holistic medical systems work to not only alleviate the symptoms of endometriosis, but to target the root of the problem and heal the body.
Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine for Endometriosis and Adenomyosis
Chinese medicine is known for its ability to dig deep and unroot the cause of our health concerns. With a Chinese medicine lens, we look at how imbalance in the body is creating illness and work to re-establish balance, rather than just address the outward symptoms.
When it comes to gynecological issues, Chinese medicine shines. This ancient system was actually one of the first medical systems to see women’s health as its own speciality; fu ke. For millennia, women have turned to acupuncture and herbal medicine to improve the health of their reproductive systems. The profound ability of this natural approach has proved the test of time, and still today women are healing their bodies with Chinese medicine.
Acupuncture is particularly useful in treating disorders of “stagnation” and pain. A common saying in Chinese medicine is “bu tong zi tong” meaning: no movement, there is pain. In the case of endometriosis, the tissue that develops outside the uterus causes a blockage and leads to pain and even more build-up and stagnation in the system. Because endometrial tissue can attach to various places, this stagnation can affect the ovaries, bladder, spine, bones, digestive system, and more. The more severe the growth, the greater likelihood of pain and dysfunction in all these systems.
Acupuncture is a moving medicine. It directs the flow of qi and blood through the body (and specific organ systems) to relieve this pain, remove the antagonizing blockage, and help the body return to a healthy state of balance. Acupuncture also addresses any present issues in the organ systems that directly affect the reproductive system such as the Liver, Spleen, and Kidney. Setting these systems right allows for natural hormone balance, smooth blood flow, and proper uterine tissue growth.
If you are searching for support for endometriosis or adenomyosis and would like to explore what Traditional Chinese Medicine and Functional Medicine can do for you, give us a call and speak to one of our expert team members today. TeleHealth and In-Person office visits are available. 773.878.7330