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Writer's pictureSharon Waltho
Nov 24, 2021

Need Support with Endometriosis?

Updated: Mar 14

Endometriosis




Endometriosis is a chronic and debilitating condition that causes painful or heavy periods and may also lead to infertility, fatigue, bowel and bladder problems in girls and women of childbearing age. It is estimated that 1 in 10 women in the UK are currently living with the condition and around 176 million worldwide. What is most concerning is that recent research shows that it can take an average of 8 years from the onset of symptoms to get a diagnosis!


The cause of endometriosis is unknown, but the condition develops when the layer of tissue that normally covers the inside of the uterus grows outside of it. Most often this is on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and tissue around the uterus and ovaries, but in some cases may also occur in other parts of the body including the bowel.


These cells react to the menstrual cycle each month and also bleed, but as there is no way for this blood to leave the body it can lead to inflammation, pain and the formation of scar tissue which can impact a woman’s life in a number of ways including;

  • Chronic pain in the abdomen, lower back and bowels

  • Fatigue and lack of energy

  • Depression and feelings of isolation

  • Problems within relationships and sex life

  • Reduced ability to conceive

  • Difficulty in fulfilling work and social commitments

The only way to diagnose endometriosis is by a laparoscopy, in which a camera is inserted into the pelvis via a small cut near the navel. The camera looks for signs of endometriosis on the pelvic organs. Endometriosis can't be cured, but if found, it may be treated with pain relief, hormone treatment or removed depending on your circumstances.


Acupuncture Treatment for Endometriosis


Traditional acupuncture takes a holistic approach to health and regards illness as a sign that the body is out of balance. The cause of the imbalance and the symptoms experienced can differ from one person to another yet have the same western diagnosis. This means that two friends could both be treated for the same condition, but the points chosen may be different to one another and individual to them.


Acupuncture treatment will aim to

  • Reduce pain and ease periods by stimulating nerves located in muscles and other tissues to release endorphins

  • Reduce inflammation

  • Enhance feelings of wellbeing

Any of the following lifestyle changes may also help to improve your symptoms sooner

  • Take time in life to rest; don’t always rush around, especially during your period. This being said, regular exercise such as a brisk walk 3 or 4 times a week can help with symptoms

  • Practise mind body exercises such as tai chi, meditation or yoga

  • Nutrition is very important as this may help to reduce oestrogen levels to prevent the growth of endometrial tissue. This can be done by reducing our intake of alcohol, sugar, caffeine and animal protein whilst increasing fresh fruits, vegetables, and high-fibre whole foods.

If you would like any more information or to discuss how acupuncture can support endometriosis, please get in touch.


Sharon

Mob: 07941 567053


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