What is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis is one of the main causes of infertility. It is a painful condition characterised by the growth of tissues that are similar to the inner lining of the uterus outside the uterus. It commonly impacts the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and the pelvic lining. In some cases, endometriosis growth may extend beyond the pelvic region. Similarly, Adenomyosis involves the growth of endometrial tissue into the uterine muscles.
Endometriosis tissues act as the uterine lining, it thickens and sheds with hormonal changes, leading to bleeding during menstruation. However, when it grows elsewhere, it causes surrounding tissues to be inflamed and leads to the formation of cysts and scar tissues. Adhesions may also develop, causing pelvic tissues and organs to adhere to one another.
What causes Endometriosis?
While the exact cause of endometriosis remains unknown, it is often associated with retrograde menstruation and inflammation triggered by the immune system. Elevated white blood cell counts and antibodies in the abdominal area are often observed. This inflammatory condition makes an unfavourable environment for ovulation and fertilisation.
What are the common signs and symptoms of Endometriosis?
- Severe pain in the pelvic region, especially during menstruation but not limit to it
- Pain during or after sex
- Pain with bowel movements or urination associated with menstruation
- Excessive menstrual bleeding or bleeding between periods
- Other symptoms: bloating, constipation or diarrhoea etc.
How can Chinese Herbal Medicine and Acupuncture help with Endometriosis?
Chinese Medicine offers a unique perspective by considering the body as a microcosm of the universe, emphasising the important of addressing minor signs to prevent more serious illnesses. Menstruation serves as a reflection of woman’s internal well-being. Even subtle symptoms like period pain or clots may indicate underlying coldness and stagnation in the body.
According to Chinese Medicine theory, factors such as exposure to cold environments, consumptions of cold foods or drinks, incomplete hair drying after washing, and use of painkillers can induce ‘cold constraint’ during menstruation, leading to stagnation or abnormal period flow. This coldness can trigger mild cervical contractions, preventing proper blood flow and potentially causing retrograde menstruation into the abdominal cavity. Furthermore, emotional stress, which manifested as body tension and creates stagnation.
Chinese Medicine considers the symptoms of Endometriosis as ‘blood stasis’ and ‘blood heat’, indicating problems with blood flow leading to cyst formation and inflammation. Chinese medicine, incorporating herbal remedies, acupuncture, lifestyle changes, and dietary adjustments, aims to bring warmth to the body, improve blood circulation to promote normal menstrual flow, and clears local heat to reduce inflammation. These approaches helps to alleviate endometriosis discomfort and enhance overall body condition, especially for people seeking fertility support.
When diagnosed with endometriosis or undergoing fertility treatments, it’s important not to be overwhelmed by stress or frustration. Instead, focus on actively adjust lifestyle to restore a healthier physical and mental state.
What you can do to help managing Endometriosis:
- Avoid cold drinks, cold foods and raw foods especially before and during menstruation.
- Refrain from cold showers or swimming in cold water during menstruation.
- Prevent exposure to rain or cold wind during menstruation.
- Reduce intake of diary, sugar and deep fried and greasy foods.
- Keep the abdominal area warm by using wheat pack on the abdomen or lower back.
- Maintain stress management activities.
- Seek guidance from a qualified Chinese Medicine practitioner for personalised recommendations.