Uterine Fibroids in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Understanding different uterine fibroids patterns according to TCM theory
Educational content • Consult qualified practitioners for medical advice
Condition Categories
Condition Categories
Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths of the uterus that often appear during childbearing years. Also known as fibromyomas, leiomyomas, or myomas, these fibroids can range in size from undetectable by the human eye to bulky masses that can distort and enlarge the uterus. You might have a single fibroid or multiple ones.
In extreme cases, multiple fibroids can expand the uterus so much that it reaches the rib cage and can add weight. Many women are unaware they have fibroids because they often cause no symptoms. However, fibroids can lead to heavy menstrual bleeding, prolonged periods, pelvic pressure or pain, and frequent urination.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), uterine fibroids are viewed as a manifestation of imbalances within the body's natural systems. TCM does not isolate the fibroids as merely a physical issue but sees them as indicators of underlying disharmonies such as Qi Stagnation, Blood stasis, Dampness accumulation, or an imbalance of Yin and Yang.
Treatment in TCM focuses on correcting these imbalances through a holistic approach that includes herbal medicine, acupuncture, and dietary modifications, aiming to dissolve the fibroids and restore reproductive health.
TCM Patterns for Uterine Fibroids
Blood Stasis
Blood that is no longer flowing smoothly through the vessels
Causes: Fibroids, Lower abdominal pain, Night fever, Delirious speech, Irritability, Restlnessness, Thirst, Amenorrhea, Dysmenorrhea, Abdominal masses, Lower abdominal distension, Lower back pain, Abnormal uterine bleeding, Painful period, Dark clots in menstrual blood
Phlegm
Thick, sticky pathological fluid that obstructs body functions and can manifest anywhere in the body
Causes: Fibroids
Blood Deficiency
Insufficient blood to nourish the body, causing paleness, dizziness, and dryness throughout the system
Causes: Chest fullness, Chest pain, Anemia, Dizziness, Headaches, Dry mouth, Dry throat, Poor appetite, Irregular menstruation, Leukorrhea, Breast distention, Vertigo, Alternating fever and chills
Full Cold in the Directing and Penetraing Vessels
Causes: Painful period, Cold in the lower abdomen, Infertility, Late period, Dark clots in menstrual blood, Abdominal pain after childbirth
Dampness and Phlegm in the Uterus
Causes: Late period, Painful period, Dark clots in menstrual blood, Brown vaginal discharge, Irregular menstruation, Abdominal pain after childbirth, Lochia retention, White vaginal discharge, Cold in the lower abdomen, Cold feeling in vagina, Infertility, Feeling of cold, Cold limbs, Purple lips
Herbal Formulas for Uterine Fibroids
Traditional Chinese Medicine formulas used to address uterine fibroids