TCM and Acupuncture for Endometriosis & PCOS Relief

Jul 25

tcm and acupuncture for endometriosis & pcos | Common TCM

Overview

Endometriosis and PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) are common gynaecological conditions that go beyond menstrual health and fertility issues. These conditions can have a wide-reaching impact on one’s emotional wellbeing, sleep, and metabolic function. Affecting about 10% (endometriosis) and 20% (PCOS) of women of reproductive age [1], both require thoughtful, long-term management.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a holistic approach rooted in centuries of knowledge, addressing both symptoms and root causes. For women exploring TCM wellness or alternative solutions for hormonal balance, menstrual regulation, or even infertility TCM options, this article explains how TCM can be a valuable part of your healthcare journey. We’ll explore the causes and symptoms of endometriosis and PCOS, along with how TCM and acupuncture may support healing and improve overall quality of life.

What is Endometriosis?[2]

Endometriosis is a painful condition in which tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, causing severe pelvic pain and heavy menstrual flow.

Common Symptoms of Endometriosis Include[2]:

Chronic pelvic pain
Heavy bleeding during or between periods
Pain during intercourse
Bloating and nausea
Fertility challenges

Causes and Classification of Endometriosis[2]

The exact cause of endometriosis is still unknown. A leading theory involves retrograde menstruation, where menstrual tissue flows backwards into the pelvic cavity. When this tissue implants outside the uterus, it causes inflammation, blockages, and eventual fertility challenges.

Endometriosis severity is typically categorised as:

Stage I: Minimal lesions
Stage II: Mild lesions
Stage III: Moderate lesions
Stage IV: Deep lesions with pelvic distortion

Risk Factors for Endometriosis[2]:

Family history of endometriosis
Early menstruation (<12 years old)
Short monthly cycles (<24 days)
Low BMI (<22)
Primary infertility

Self-Help Tips for Managing Endometriosis:

Because endometriosis is an inflammatory disease, lifestyle changes may support symptom relief:

Regular aerobic exercise (3 times a week)
Anti-inflammatory diet with fruits, vegetables, and omega-3
Reduced intake of red meat, alcohol, and gluten
Avoiding smoking and processed food

Treatment Options for Endometriosis

Oral Medications [4]:

Analgesics: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce pain
Hormonal treatments: Pills, patches, IUDs, and injections to regulate bleeding and suppress symptoms

Surgical Options [4]:

Laparoscopic Surgery: Minimally invasive removal of lesions, which can improve fertility
Hysterectomy: Removal of the uterus; only for those who do not wish to conceive

What is Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)?

PCOS is a hormonal disorder characterised by excess male hormones (androgens), affecting reproductive and metabolic health.

Common Symptoms of PCOS[5]:

Irregular or missed periods
Ovarian cysts or enlarged ovaries
Hirsutism (excess facial/body hair)
Weight gain, especially around the belly
Acne or oily skin
Hair thinning or male-pattern baldness
Skin darkening around the neck, armpits, or under breasts
Fertility challenges

Causes and Diagnosis of PCOS[5]:

Insulin Resistance: Found in 70% of PCOS cases
Hormonal Imbalance: High androgen levels lead to skin and hair symptoms

Risk Factors for PCOS[6]:

Family history of PCOS or metabolic syndrome
High BMI (>27.5)

Treatment Options for PCOS[7]:

Depending on symptoms:

Irregular periods: Hormonal contraceptives
Insulin resistance: Metformin and lifestyle changes
Fertility issues: Ovulation induction, surgery, or assisted reproduction
Skin/hair concerns: Anti-androgens and topical treatments

Evidence-Based TCM Approaches for Endometriosis and PCOS

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), both conditions are linked to imbalances in kidney essence, qi, blood flow, and organ function.

TCM Understanding:

Endometriosis: Referred to as 痛经 (painful menstruation)
PCOS: Often labelled under 癥瘕 (cystic growths)

Foundational TCM Concepts:

Kidney Essence: Crucial for hormone regulation
Qi and Blood Flow: Needed for healthy menstruation and metabolism
Common imbalances:

Phlegm dampness (from cold/raw foods)
Heat or damp-heat (from oily foods or late nights)
Cold womb syndrome

Constitution Types Treated:

Deficiency Patterns: Kidney qi or blood deficiency
Stagnation Patterns: Qi stagnation, blood stasis, cold or heat syndromes

TCM Treatment Modalities

Unlike conventional medication, TCM treats root causes alongside symptoms. Integrated TCM and acupuncture therapies can help manage pain, improve hormone balance, and support fertility.

1. Herbal Medicine

Tailored to each person’s constitution:

Qi stagnation: Xiao Yao San 逍遥散
Blood stasis: Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan 桂枝茯苓丸
Kidney deficiency: You Gui Wan or Zuo Gui Wan 右归丸 or 左归丸

2. Acupuncture & Electro-Acupuncture (EA)

Stimulates meridian points to balance qi:

SP6 (Sanyinjiao)
CV4 (Guanyuan)
ST36 (Zusanli)
LV3 (Taichong)
EA enhances stimulation and supports metabolic function in PCOS, even showing comparable effects to metformin [8].

3. Moxibustion

Warming therapy using mugwort or heat:

Enhances blood flow
Reduces menstrual pain
Warms the uterus

How Many Sessions Do I Need?

Treatment duration depends on your goals and condition severity.

For endometriosis: A 3-month plan, plus lifestyle changes
For PCOS: Several months to restore cycle and hormone balance
For fertility: Treatment is customised around your ovulation or assisted reproductive treatments

Who Is Suitable for Treatment?

Our TCM clinic in Singapore welcomes anyone looking to ease discomfort from endometriosis or PCOS, improve their cycles, or explore infertility TCM options. Each consultation involves an in-depth review of your symptoms, body constitution, and lifestyle habits. With a tailored treatment plan combining herbs, TCM and acupuncture, and holistic care, we aim to bring balance to your body and improve your quality of life.

Most importantly, do your research and consult trusted professionals for a personalised care plan. For more information on TCM wellness, visit our website or book a consultation. We’re here to support your journey toward better health—naturally.