Endometriosis + Menopause at the same time?
You may think by the time you enter menopause that issues with your Endometriosis will be over.
That's not always the case.
According to Endometriosis Australia, while the condition is often associated with reproductive-age women, symptoms may continue or even emerge after menopause.
This persistence is due to various factors, including hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and the body's own oestrogen production, which can continue to stimulate endometrial tissue growth.
As if Menopause or Endometriosis on their own aren't challenging enough!
What can I do to help myself?
Therefore, it's important for postmenopausal women to monitor any ongoing or new symptoms and consult with their GP or Gynaecologist for appropriate management strategies.
Endometriosis often leads to chronic pelvic pain and other symptoms. Menopause marks the end of menstrual cycles, bringing its own set of challenges, such as hot flashes, night sweats, and mood changes. For women experiencing both conditions, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers therapeutic approaches to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life.
Chinese Herbal Medicine
A qualified TCM Practitioner will prescribe herbal medicine to address the unique needs of women with both endometriosis and menopausal symptoms. Herbs with pain-alleviating and anti-inflammatory properties may be beneficial in managing endometriosis-related discomfort.
Formulas prescribed by a registered Chinese Herbalist may focus on moving stagnant blood, replenishing and nourishing blood after heavy periods and moving the circulation to ease pain.
For menopausal symptoms, Chinese herbal medicine has been explored as an alternative to hormone therapy. A systematic review highlighted the need for more rigorous studies but acknowledged the potential of Chinese herbs in alleviating menopausal discomforts.
Formulas prescribed by a registered Chinese Herbalist may focus on building Kidney Yin and strengthening Qi for combatting fatigue, clearing heat to keep the body temp regulated.
Acupuncture
Regarding Endometriosis, research indicates that acupuncture may effectively reduce menstrual pain associated with periods.
In managing menopausal symptoms, acupuncture has shown promise. A pragmatic randomised study in primary care settings found that standardised acupuncture treatments led to a significant reduction in moderate-to-severe menopausal symptoms, suggesting its potential as a beneficial intervention.
Commonly Used Acupoints
Practitioners may target specific acupoints to address symptoms related to both endometriosis and menopause:
- SP6 (Sanyinjiao): This point influences the uterus, as well as the spleen, liver, and kidney channels. It's used for regulating and easing period issues and hormonal imbalances.
- CV4 (Guanyuan): Nourishes and strengthens Kidney and address tiredness. A major tonification point for the whole body but also improves local circulation in the pelvis.
- LV3 (Taichong): Associated with liver function and may help in reducing pain and emotional stress.
For women suffering both endometriosis and menopause, TCM offers gentle approaches that may ease symptoms. We want to help you start feeling better in yourself as soon as possible.
This transitional phase in your life is all about finding support. Adding Acupuncture or Chinese Herbs into your health care plan may make a difference to your wellbeing during this time. If you're based on Sydney's Northern Beaches, I operate clinics in Brookvale and Warriewood. You can make contact via the website and we can start a conversation about what you need for better self-care.
