24/02/2026
Endometriosis is a chronic, often painful condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside of itâcommonly on ovaries, fallopian tubes, bowel, and pelvic tissueâaffecting 1 in 10 women. This tissue acts like the uterine lining, bleeding during the menstrual cycle, causing inflammation, scar tissue, pain, and potential fertility issues.
* Symptoms: Severe menstrual pain (dysmenorrhea), chronic pelvic pain, pain during/after s*x, painful bowel movements or urination, heavy periods, fatigue, and infertility.
* Causes: The exact cause is unknown, but it is a hormone-dependent disease.
* Diagnosis & Treatment: While there is no cure, treatments include pain medication, hormone therapy (e.g., birth control), and surgery to remove endometriosis tissue.
* Impact: Beyond physical pain, it can lead to emotional distress, anxiety, and depression.
Acupuncture shows promise as a safe, complementary therapy for managing endometriosis symptoms, particularly for reducing chronic pelvic pain and painful periods (dysmenorrhea). It works by stimulating the nervous system, releasing endorphins, decreasing inflammation, and potentially lowering CA-125 levels. Evidence suggests it can improve quality of life and may help with associated infertility.
Key Benefits and Evidence:
* Pain Reduction: Studies indicate that acupuncture can be effective in reducing pain severity, with some research showing it to be as effective as, or more effective than, certain Western medications.
* Inflammation Control: It helps reduce serum CA-125 levels, a marker associated with high levels of inflammation in endometriosis patients.
* Hormonal Balance: Acupuncture may help regulate cycles and suppress serum estradiol, which can help inhibit the growth of endometrial tissue.
* Systemic Support: It is often used to address associated issues like digestive problems, bloating, and stress.
