Endometriosisaccording to TCM

What is Endometritis?

Endometritis is an inflammatory condition of the endometrium, the inner lining of the uterus, typically caused by an infection. It can manifest through symptoms such as abnormal uterine bleeding, pelvic pain, fever, and in some cases, unusual vaginal discharge.

The condition often arises post-delivery or following procedures like a dilation and curettage, making it a significant concern for reproductive health. Recognizing and treating endometritis promptly is crucial to prevent further complications, such as fertility issues or chronic pain.

How does TCM view Endometritis?

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, understanding endometritis requires identifying the patient's specific "pattern" of disharmony. A pattern in TCM is a comprehensive diagnostic framework that considers the interplay of physical symptoms, emotional state, and environmental factors.

This approach is pivotal because it guides the customization of treatment. TCM posits that effective healing is not just about addressing the symptoms but about correcting the underlying pattern of imbalance, ensuring the treatment is tailored to the individual's unique condition.

Root Causes of Endometriosis in TCM

In the framework of TCM, endometritis is often linked to specific imbalances, notably Spleen and Liver Blood Deficiency and the obstruction of the Spleen by Dampness coupled with Liver Qi Stagnation. These conditions highlight the intricate relationship between the Spleen's role in transforming and transporting nutrients and the Liver's responsibility for the smooth flow of Qi and Blood throughout the body. When these functions are impaired, it can lead to the stagnation and accumulation of dampness and heat, creating an environment conducive to inflammation and infection, as seen in endometritis.

Explore below more details about what might cause Endometriosis according to TCM.

Blood Stasis

Blood Stasis in TCM is a concept where the blood flow in the body is not as smooth or efficient as it should be. Imagine a river that's supposed to flow freely, but instead, it's getting blocked or moving too slowly in some parts. This can lead to various health issues, like pain that feels sharp or stabbing, dark bruises, and a complexion that looks purplish. TCM believes that good health relies on the smooth and vibrant flow of Qi and blood throughout the body, so when blood gets stuck, it's like a traffic jam in your body, leading to discomfort or health problems.... see more

Blood Stasis Patterns That Can Lead to Endometriosis

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Blood Stagnation and Phlegm in the Uterus	Endometriosis, Persistent uterine bleeding of purple or dark blood, Lower abdominal distension and pain that increases with pressure, Lower abdominal fibroids and cysts, Menstrual cramps, Irregular periods, Abdominal pain, Prolonged lochia, Uterine fibroids, Infertility, Postpartum hemorrhage... see more	Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan

Phlegm

In TCM "Phlegm" as a pattern of disharmony is a complex concept that extends beyond the physical manifestation of mucus. It represents a pathological factor that can disrupt the flow of Qi (vital energy) and blood, leading to various health issues. Phlegm in TCM is seen as a sticky, turbid substance arising from the body's inability to metabolize fluids properly, often due to a dysfunction of the spleen. It's not only associated with respiratory problems like cough and congestion but also with systemic issues. Symptoms can include a feeling of heaviness, mental cloudiness, dizziness, and in some cases, the formation of lumps or masses. Phlegm can even be "invisible," contributing to emotional disturbances like depression or stress. ... see more

Phlegm Patterns That Can Lead to Endometriosis

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Blood Stagnation and Phlegm in the Uterus	Endometriosis, Persistent uterine bleeding of purple or dark blood, Lower abdominal distension and pain that increases with pressure, Lower abdominal fibroids and cysts, Menstrual cramps, Irregular periods, Abdominal pain, Prolonged lochia, Uterine fibroids, Infertility, Postpartum hemorrhage... see more	Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan

Uterus

In TCM the Uterus (or "Bao Gong") is not just a reproductive organ but a vital system closely linked to Kidney energy, responsible for menstrual health, fertility, and pregnancy. It's also connected to the Heart and Liver, reflecting the importance of emotional and blood health in reproductive wellness. In TCM, the Uterus is seen as a reservoir of Blood and Qi, crucial for reproductive health and general vitality. When the Uterus malfunctions or is imbalanced, it can lead to menstrual irregularities, infertility, miscarriages, or menopausal symptoms. Additionally, there might be symptoms like lower abdominal pain or emotional disturbances such as mood swings, often linked to Liver Qi stagnation. These manifestations highlight the TCM perspective that the health of the Uterus is intertwined with the overall balance of energy and blood in the body, as well as emotional well-being.... see more

Uterus Patterns That Can Lead to Endometriosis

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Blood Stagnation and Phlegm in the Uterus	Endometriosis, Persistent uterine bleeding of purple or dark blood, Lower abdominal distension and pain that increases with pressure, Lower abdominal fibroids and cysts, Menstrual cramps, Irregular periods, Abdominal pain, Prolonged lochia, Uterine fibroids, Infertility, Postpartum hemorrhage... see more	Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan

TCM Herbal Formulas for Endometriosis

To counteract the patterns leading to endometritis, TCM practitioners may prescribe formulas that invigorate Blood and dispel Blood Stagnation. One such formula is Dang Gui Shao Yao San, which prominently features White Peony Roots (Bai Shao).

This herb, known for its bitter, sour, and neutral properties, is particularly effective in addressing Spleen and Liver Blood Deficiency and mitigating obstruction of the Spleen by Dampness with Liver Qi Stagnation. By employing such targeted treatments, TCM aims to rectify the underlying imbalances, thereby alleviating the symptoms and causes of endometritis from a holistic standpoint.

Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address endometriosis, organized by cause and by formula type.

Top Formula for Blood Stasis:
Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan

Suitable for Blood Stasis patterns that may cause endometriosis, such as Blood Stagnation and Phlegm in the Uterus

Learn more

Top Formula for Phlegm:
Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan

Suitable for Phlegm patterns that may cause endometriosis, such as Blood Stagnation and Phlegm in the Uterus

Learn more

Acupoints for Endometriosis

See more details below about Siman KID-14, an acupoint used to address endometriosis.

Siman KID-14

2 cun below the umbilicus, 0.5 cun lateral to the anterior midline.