Acupuncture and Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a chronic condition caused by endometrial tissue growing in sites outside the uterus. This tissue responds to the hormones of the menstrual cycle – this can cause inflammation, bleeding and pain. Some women have no symptoms, some suffer greatly, some resolve without intervention, some it progresses sometimes requiring surgery.

Common treatments are NSAIDs, oral contraceptives, androgenic and gonadotrophin releasing hormone treatments, progestogens and surgery. Pain management is often very difficult to achieve.

Treatment with acupuncture can be effective in helping with pain, balancing hormones and managing anxiety around the condition. The gentle Japanese style techniques are thought to be the best tolerated for this condition. The treatment for endometriosis is always different for each patient as each patient has a different constitution and set of symptoms. However, the most common treatment promotes blood circulation and reduces inflammation resulting in less pain.

The first consultation will involve taking a full medical history and gaining an understanding of your specific patterns. The treatment itself (the time the needles are inserted for) is around twenty minutes. During which, very fine, sterile needles are inserted into the meridians (lines of energy). Most people find the treatment extremely relaxing and some even fall asleep. Follow up treatments are usually weekly for a short time, then monthly and eventually patients may only need a three monthly top up to keep on top of things. Initially, you will need to commit to fairly frequent, regular treatments for this particular condition, but everyone is different.

After the treatment your practitioner will advise you on what to do after the treatment, including advise on good foods to eat or to avoid.

If you’re curious if acupuncture might be able to help you, book a FREE 15-minute consultation with Selena or Rachel to find out more! Call our amazing admin angels on 01293 544245 to book!

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