Support for Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a common yet often misunderstood chronic condition in which tissue similar to the lining of the womb begins to grow in places it doesn’t belong. These stray patches of endometrial tissue most often appear on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, the pelvic wall behind the uterus, and even the upper part of the cervix and vagina.

What makes endometriosis particularly disruptive is how this tissue behaves: just like the uterine lining, it thickens, breaks down, and bleeds with each menstrual cycle. But here’s the problem — the blood has nowhere to go. Trapped inside the body, it can trigger inflammation, pain, swelling, and the formation of scar tissue.

The exact cause of endometriosis remains a mystery. Its symptoms, however, are all too real for many: intense or heavy periods, chronic pelvic or lower back pain, and in some cases, reduced fertility. Yet, not every woman experiences obvious signs for some, endometriosis is a quiet, hidden presence. Currently, a firm diagnosis can only be made through laparoscopy, a minimally invasive surgical procedure that allows doctors to look directly inside the abdomen.

Acupuncture and Endometriosis: A Gentle Approach to Relief

In the search for natural ways to ease the pain and disruption of endometriosis, acupuncture is an excellent choice to manage this condition. While research is still evolving, early studies suggest acupuncture may offer valuable support to those living with endometriosis through a variety of mechanisms:

Easing Pain: By triggering the release of endorphins and modulating the nervous system, acupuncture may reduce the intensity and frequency of pelvic pain.

Calming Inflammation: It may help reduce inflammatory markers, offering a more balanced immune response.

Balancing Prostaglandins: These hormone-like substances influence uterine contractions and pain; acupuncture may help regulate their levels.

Supporting Emotional Wellbeing: Chronic pain can take a toll mentally and emotionally. Acupuncture is known to ease stress and promote relaxation a key component in holistic healing.

While acupuncture is not a cure for endometriosis, it offers a complementary path — one that is gentle, natural, and increasingly supported by emerging evidence. For many women, it represents hope and relief where conventional treatments may fall short.

In a 2023 systematic review published in the journal Integrative Medicine Research, the authors combined data from 6 studies on endometriosis and acupuncture, for a total of 331 patients. They found that acupuncture reduced both non-period related pelvic pain and menstrual pain compared to the controls. Click here to take a look at the research. In clinical practice I’ve also seen acupuncture reduce heavy period bleeding, improve fatigue, as well as many other improvements to overall quality of life.

If you have endometriosis, I would love to work with you to help manage your symptoms, book a discovery call today to learn more.