Not Just a Bad Period: A Glimpse Into Endometriosis
Before Endometriosis Awareness Month comes to a close, we want to talk about this complex and challenging condition that impacts so many women. People often mislabel endometriosis as “a bad period”, but it is so much more – and we want to help patients feel heard, understood, and most importantly to get relief from their symptoms.
Any chronic illness is isolating and Endometriosis is no different. With proper treatment, the right care and a comprehensive approach it can be managed – and we want to help you do that.
More Than “Just Painful Periods”
When we say “Endometriosis”, many incorrectly assume it is “just a bad period” which is far from the truth. It is a systemic inflammatory disease that affects over 190 million females globally, many of which struggle with infertility. As a systemic disease it impacts the full body, occurring when tissue grows outside the uterus and is found in other parts of the body. Symptoms include painful periods, but are tremendously more complex.
Common Endometriosis Symptoms
- Pelvic pain
- Abdominal pain + bloating
- Nausea
- Abnormal + painful periods (heavy periods, spotting/bleeding between periods)
- Low back pain + hip pain
- Painful intercourse
- Chronic fatigue
- Infertility
Traditional Chinese Medicine, Functional Medicine, Acupuncture + Endometriosis
We have seen an uptick in patients with Endometriosis in our world, as more people find relief in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and acupuncture as well as Herbal and Functional Medicine. Using TCM, Functional Medicine and acupuncture, we prioritize seeking and addressing the root cause of the condition, working towards whole body relief and wellness.
So how does it work? We take a Functional and TCM approach to addressing the main symptoms of endometriosis, using: acupuncture, moxa, cupping, castor oil, lifestyle changes and herbal supplements to help decrease inflammation, improve blood flow, and improve organ health, balance hormones, and improve gut health. We review any laboratory tests or diagnostic assessments you have undergone and recommend additional testing, if deemed necessary.
Treatment Goals
- Balance hormones
- Improve gut health
- Reduce overall inflammation
- Improve circulation + blood flow
- Promote relaxation
Our Approach
Acupuncture: Various acupuncture points are used to target and treat inflammation and provide pain relief and relaxation, enhance immune function, increase endorphins, improve circulation, support and improve reproductive and menstruation channels (spleen, liver, kidneys)
Cupping: Promotes blood flow and lymphatic flow to calm inflammation
Moxa: Moxibustion therapy helps to promote movement of stagnant blood helping to regulate blood flow – which can alleviate cramps, stiffness, and pain
Herbal Medicine: Multiple herbs and nutrients can help endometriosis patients – we typically customize a herbal tincture for your specific health and symptom needs – herbal medications usually change throughout the different stages of the menstrual cycle to treat your specific concerns
Lifestyle Adjustments: This encompasses recommendations for lifestyle and dietary changes aimed at expediting your healing process and fostering overall well-being.
Your Endo Journey at Points for Wellness
At Points for Wellness our providers utilize acupuncture, functional medicine, and TCM to work directly with patients to address their specific endometriosis and health needs. Our goal is to simply help you along your journey and provide support and guidance using a comprehensive approach to your care. Endometriosis can be isolating, but our providers and team are here to guide you through it.