Acupuncture for fibroids

Fibroids is the most common structural abnormality of the uterus and estimates are that between 20 and 50 percent of women aged 35 to 50 have them. Fibroids, also referred to as fibromyomas, may form in the endometrium of the uterus or protrude into the uterine cavity. They may be completely asymptomatic, but they may cause pelvic pain, pressure, constipation, recurrent bladder infections or bleeding between the periods (metrorrhagia) or excessive bleeding during the period (menorrhagia). Fibroids and polyps can also interfere with fertility and conception as they can have the same effect as an intrauterine device in interfering with the development of the endometrial lining, thus making embryo implantation difficult. In addition, when fibroids and polyps are very large, they can interfere with the front and back walls of the uterus pressing together to help an embryo to implant. When fibroids grow outside of the uterus they can get in the way as the fallopian tube tries to pick up an egg after ovulation. Fibroids may also cause difficulties during pregnancy if they push against blood vessels, inhibiting the normal development of the foetus.

Chinese medicine views fibroids as stagnation of Blood which is not moving freely as it should and which accumulates in places where it shouldn’t. Acupuncture points are used to move to Blood and increase the circulation in the area in order to resolve the fibroid masses. Herbal medicinals are often used in conjunction with acupuncture to move and regulate the Blood inside and around the uterus. In so doing, acupuncture and herbal medicine can be very effective in clearing fibroid growths.