How Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine Support Endometriosis—Beyond Just Period Pain
Endometriosis is more than just a “painful period.” For many, it affects every aspect of life—from digestion and energy to fertility and mental clarity. At my practice, I use acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) to help people with endometriosis find real, lasting relief—not just for the pain, but for the full spectrum of symptoms this condition can bring.
🌼 What Is Endometriosis from a TCM Perspective?
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, we view endometriosis not as a localized problem, but as a systemic imbalance. It's often associated with:
Blood stasis (impaired circulation and clotting)
Cold in the uterus (causing cramping and infertility)
Qi stagnation (emotional tension, pelvic tightness)
Dampness and heat (digestive, urinary, and inflammatory symptoms)
Underlying deficiencies in Kidney, Liver, or Spleen energy
By identifying your unique pattern, we create a treatment plan that supports your whole body—not just your reproductive system.
💫 Symptoms We Commonly Treat
Endometriosis can cause a wide range of symptoms. Many of my patients come in experiencing:
Painful periods (dysmenorrhea) and ongoing pelvic pain
Pain with sex (dyspareunia) that affects intimacy and confidence
Chronic fatigue, brain fog, and burnout
Heavy bleeding, spotting, and irregular cycles
Digestive issues: bloating, constipation, nausea
Bladder and bowel pain, frequent UTIs
Back pain, rectal pain, headaches
Cold hands and feet, and internal coldness
Infertility and hormonal imbalances
You’re not imagining these symptoms—and you don’t have to live with them.
✨ How Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine Can Help
TCM treatments have been shown to offer meaningful symptom relief for people with endometriosis by working holistically:
Acupuncture helps reduce pain by regulating nervous system activity, releasing endorphins, and improving blood flow to pelvic organs [1].
Herbal medicine supports hormonal regulation, reduces inflammation, and improves menstrual function [2].
Moxibustion (a warming therapy) may help relieve cold-induced uterine cramps and improve circulation [3].
Cupping and gua sha release fascia tension, move Qi, and reduce localized inflammation.
📚 Research Reference:
[1] Zhu, X., et al. (2011). Acupuncture for pain in endometriosis: a randomized controlled trial. PLOS ONE, 6(3), e17256. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0017256
[2] Li, X., et al. (2020). Chinese herbal medicine for endometriosis-related pain: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Medicine, 99(48), e23364.
[3] Xu, Y., et al. (2013). Moxibustion for primary dysmenorrhea: A systematic review and meta-analysis.European Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology, 169(1), 1–7.
🛠️ What to Expect in Treatment
Your treatment may include:
Acupuncture sessions tailored to your cycle phase and symptom profile
Custom herbal formulas to regulate hormones and reduce inflammation
Moxibustion to warm and relax the uterus
Cupping or gua sha to ease pelvic tension
Nutritional and lifestyle guidance to reduce flare-ups and support energy
This is not a one-size-fits-all approach. Together, we’ll build a plan that fits your body, lifestyle, and health goals.
🕊️ You Deserve to Feel Better—Every Day of the Month
Endometriosis is complex—but so is the wisdom of your body. Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine offer a gentle, individualized, and effective path to healing.
If you're ready to explore a different approach, I offer a free 15-minute consultation to talk through your symptoms and share how TCM might support you.
References:
Zhu, X., et al. (2011). Acupuncture for pain in endometriosis: a randomized controlled trial. PLOS ONE, 6(3), e17256. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0017256
Li, X., et al. (2020). Chinese herbal medicine for endometriosis-related pain: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Medicine, 99(48), e23364.
Xu, Y., et al. (2013). Moxibustion for primary dysmenorrhea: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol, 169(1), 1–7.
Chen, K., et al. (2016). Traditional Chinese medicine for endometriosis: A review of clinical evidence and mechanisms. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine. DOI:10.1155/2016/3294827
