I’m an Acupuncturist and This is How I Manage my Stage 3 Endometriosis Symptoms
Endometriosis is an incredibly common yet horribly under-diagnosed disease. It is estimated that one in ten women have endometriosis, a condition where tissue that is similar to the uterine lining grows outside of the uterus. It typically causes a lot of period pain, pain with bowel movements or urination, pain during intercourse, infertility, digestive issues, and fatigue. I was diagnosed 4 years ago after an ultrasound revealed a 10cm endometrioma (a type of cyst specific to endometriosis) on my right ovary. Having laparoscopic surgery a year after diagnosis helped tremendously with my periodically intense pelvic pain, but I still need to employ regular techniques to keep my symptoms down.
The following are some of my favorite tools for managing my own pain and ones I often recommend to my patients.
Regular acupuncture. Acupuncture works with the brain and central nervous system to activate pain relieving neurotransmitters which reduces period pain. I try to give myself a couple of acupuncture treatments a couple of times per month. It’s even better if I can get a colleague to do it for me! For my patients with endometriosis, I often recommend they come weekly for 2-3 months and then taper off to a more maintenance dosage when symptoms become more manageable.
Chinese herbs. Chinese herbal formulas consist of a handful of different herbs that work synergistically to have a physiological effect on the body. Studies show that herbal formulas taken for 3 months can reduce heavy periods, painful intercourse, pelvic floor spasms, and inflammatory markers in those with endometriosis. Another study showed that Chinese herbs reduce period pain by 88.89%, pelvic pain by 66.72%, intercourse pain by 72.12%, and diminished masses and nodules by 22.15% while 13.63% with infertility became pregnant.
Anti-inflammatory diet. It’s true there is no one endometriosis diet. But because endometriosis is a disease of inflammation, anything you can do to reduce inflammation through the diet and gut will help reduce pain and symptoms. An anti-inflammatory diet entails removing or limiting commonly inflammatory foods such as gluten, dairy, sugar, caffeine, or alcohol. A diet high in omega 3 fatty acids and antioxidants has been shown to be beneficial for endometriosis. Following a gluten free diet for 12 months was shown to significantly reduce endometriosis pain in 75% of the test subjects. Personally, I’ve found refined sugar, too many fried foods, and gluten to be triggers for me.
Supplements. I make sure to take my supplements every day. Many different ones have been shown to be effective in reducing the pain of endometriosis such as NAC, vitamins C and E, vitamin D, probiotics, omega 3 fatty acids, and magnesium. Of course always consult with a healthcare professional before taking any supplements.
Prioritizing sleep. Lack of good quality sleep can activate inflammatory mechanisms in the body which can aggravate pain and symptoms. I notice not getting my 8 hours of sleep really impacts my mood, energy levels, and PMS symptoms.
Castor oil packs. Castor oil packs are a traditional remedy that consists of placing castor oil and heat to the abdomen. Typically, a flannel soaked in castor oil is placed on the abdomen or pelvis, plastic or a towel is placed on top of the flannel, and then a heating pad or hot water bottle is placed on the very top for 30-60 minutes. Although there haven’t been any studies conducted on it, castor oil packs may be helpful in reducing period pain and adhesions caused by endometriosis. I found it particularly helpful post surgery.
TENS machine. A TENS machine is a device with electrode pads that attach to the skin that override the pain signals being sent from the brain. The electrical stimulation promotes the release of endorphins and other pain relieving neurotransmitters. There are companies that have created TENS machines for period pain called Ovira and Livia, but I use one I found on Amazon. Studies find TENS machines to be an effective complementary tool for painful periods for those with endometriosis.
When it’s really bad I have no problem with taking painkillers. I’m a holistic medical provider, but I truly believe in integrative medicine. This means I like to combine the best of Eastern medicine and the best of Western medicine in order to improve the quality of my life.
If you’ve been struggling with your symptoms or feel like you’ve tried everything, I highly recommend working with an acupuncturist, naturopath, or functional medicine provider that specializes in reproductive health to be able to fine tune your treatment plan and provide personalized suggestions.
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In healing,
Allison
