March: Endometriosis Awareness Month
March is Endometriosis awareness month. Endometriosis occurs as an inflammatory response to endometrial cells forming outside of the uterus. It is often associated with painful menses, pelvic pain, painful intercourse, abdominal pain, gastrointestinal disorders such as IBS, infertility, urinary disorders and more. A reported 8.5 billion women in North America suffer from Endometriosis. While there is a list of common symptoms as listed above, some women experience no symptoms and discover the diagnosis as cause for infertility.
Chinese Medicine and Endometriosis:
Chinese medicine is a holistic medicine. It is founded in the theory that Qi (chee) must harmoniously flow in pathways called channels and meridians, in order for the body to function properly. In the case of endometriosis, there is congestion or stagnation, of qi, blood and phlegm causing pain and a wide variety of other symptoms. From a Chinese medical perspective endometriosis occurs in response to an underlying imbalance. While many women believe endometriosis is untreatable and something to live with. It is often well maintained with acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, proper nutrition and possible lifestyle changes. Here are some commonly treated symptoms associated with Endometriosis:
Kat Starbird, M.Ac.O.M., L.Ac., birth doula
Chinese Medicine and Endometriosis:
Chinese medicine is a holistic medicine. It is founded in the theory that Qi (chee) must harmoniously flow in pathways called channels and meridians, in order for the body to function properly. In the case of endometriosis, there is congestion or stagnation, of qi, blood and phlegm causing pain and a wide variety of other symptoms. From a Chinese medical perspective endometriosis occurs in response to an underlying imbalance. While many women believe endometriosis is untreatable and something to live with. It is often well maintained with acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, proper nutrition and possible lifestyle changes. Here are some commonly treated symptoms associated with Endometriosis:
- painful menses
- heavy or abnormal uterine bleeding
- chronic or intermittent pelvic pain
- ovarian cysts
- infertility, miscarriage
- nausea, vomiting, GI disorders, diarrhea, constipation, etc.
- painful intercourse
- fatigue
- immune related disorders
Kat Starbird, M.Ac.O.M., L.Ac., birth doula