Endometriosis, fatigue and mental health.

Endometriosis is a chronic condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, leading to symptoms such as pelvic pain, fatigue, and mental health challenges like anxiety and depression. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers holistic approaches to support women experiencing these interconnected issues. Let's take a look at Endometriosis through a TCM lens.

Stagnation

Endometriosis in nature is a problem of stagnancy - the lesions are "sticky" and attach to structure inside the uterus, outside the uterus and within the pelvic area.

Blood

Its also a problem relating to the blood - producing anything from a heavy bleed to large clots. With a heavy bleed the issue becomes one of deficient or insufficient blood. Significant blood loss in the case of heavy flow or haemorrhaging, flooding events, then its common to also see Iron Deficiency in any medical testing.

Regarding clots, this again is stagnation but specifically relating to the blood being congested and not moving as it should with a "normal" bleed.

How TCM manages Fatigue

In TCM, fatigue is often linked to a deficiency or stagnation of blood or energy. Endometriosis can disrupt the smooth flow of Qi, leading to feelings of exhaustion. Using herbs such as Astragalus, Atractylodes and Ginseng can help buffer fatigue and tiredness.

How TCM addresses Anxiety or Depression

The Shen, often translated as "spirit" or "mind," is housed in the Heart and governs mental clarity and emotional well-being. Disruptions in the Shen are often present in conditions such as anxiety or depression. Acupuncture and herbal treatments aim to calm the Shen and soothe these emotional disturbances or distress. By relaxing the mind, regulating the nervous system this has an effect on the brain's neurotransmitters.  For instance, acupuncture points like Shenmen or Nei Guan are commonly used to calm the mind and alleviate anxiety. Bai Hui is another acupoint for stimulating the brain, nervous system and neurotransmitters in cases of depression.

The stress of having Endometriosis

The emotional stress or physical pain associated with endometriosis is another aspect of the condition, feeling drained, worn out and exhausted. When we feel energetic, our metal resilience is often better. So when we feel at lower capacity, it affects our day to day functioning and how we face the world outside. Acupuncture and herbal medicine are employed to move stagnant Qi, ease muscular tension and calm the body. This is generally well received with clients when they're feeling on edge or overwhelmed.

If you're considering Acupuncture and you're on the Northern Beaches of Sydney, you can make contact via the website. Let's start a conversation to make a plan towards you feeling more like yourself and energetic.