Acupuncture for Fibroids and Cysts: A Holistic Approach to Women’s Health
Fibroids and ovarian cysts are common health conditions affecting millions of women globally. Both can lead to uncomfortable symptoms, from heavy bleeding and pelvic pain to hormonal imbalances and fertility issues.
While conventional treatments are often effective, many women seek complementary therapies like acupuncture to help manage symptoms and restore balance to the body naturally.
Acupuncture, a primary component of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), is known for its holistic approach to health.
This blog will explore how acupuncture can help with fibroids and cysts, review scientific studies and research, and highlight why The Blackheath London Acupuncture Clinic is a trusted place to begin your acupuncture journey.
What Are Fibroids and Ovarian Cysts?
Fibroids are benign (non-cancerous) growths that develop within the uterus. They vary in size, number, and location, with some women experiencing mild symptoms, while others may suffer from significant issues, including heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pressure, and pain.
Ovarian cysts, on the other hand, are fluid-filled sacs that develop on or within the ovaries.
While most ovarian cysts are benign and often disappear on their own, some can cause pain, hormonal issues, and complications like ovarian torsion.
Both conditions are influenced by hormonal imbalances, especially estrogen, making them common during reproductive years.
How Acupuncture Can Help Fibroids and Cysts
Acupuncture involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to restore balance and energy flow (Qi). According to TCM, fibroids and cysts can result from stagnation of Qi and blood, imbalances in Yin and Yang, and an accumulation of “dampness” in the body.
Acupuncture aims to address these issues by promoting circulation, balancing hormones, and reducing inflammation, ultimately helping manage symptoms and improve overall reproductive health.
- Reducing Pain and Inflammation
Pain is a common symptom associated with fibroids and cysts. Acupuncture is well-documented for its pain-relieving benefits.
Research published in The Journal of Pain (2018) showed that acupuncture effectively reduces pain by stimulating the body’s release of endorphins—natural painkillers—and modulating the nervous system.
Acupuncture has been shown to reduce inflammation markers as well, which is important since inflammation can worsen fibroid and cyst symptoms.
- Regulating Hormonal Balance
Hormonal imbalance, especially elevated estrogen levels, is a key factor in the growth of fibroids and cysts. Acupuncture can help regulate hormone levels by acting on the hypothalamus-pituitary-ovarian (HPO) axis, the hormonal system that controls menstrual cycles.
A study published in Fertility and Sterility (2019) indicated that acupuncture influences the HPO axis, potentially leading to more balanced estrogen levels and reducing the likelihood of fibroid and cyst growth.
- Improving Blood Circulation to the Pelvic Area
Fibroids and cysts are often linked to poor blood circulation, which can lead to stagnation and accumulation in the pelvic region.
Acupuncture stimulates blood flow to the reproductive organs, which helps to resolve stagnation and clear blockages.
A study in Acupuncture in Medicine (2017) confirmed that acupuncture enhances blood circulation in the pelvic area, aiding in the management of symptoms associated with fibroids and cysts.
- Enhancing the Body’s Detoxification Processes
In TCM, fibroids and cysts can be attributed to “dampness” in the body, which can be due to diet, stress, and lifestyle. Acupuncture helps the body clear out excess fluids and toxins by promoting proper organ function.
By supporting kidney and liver function, acupuncture encourages the body’s natural detoxification processes, helping reduce fluid retention and shrink cysts.
- Managing Stress and Emotional Health
Stress is a major factor that can worsen fibroid and cyst symptoms. Stress can disrupt the HPO axis, further aggravating hormonal imbalances. Acupuncture has a calming effect, promoting relaxation and lowering stress hormone levels.
A study published in Psychological Research and Behavior Management (2020) found that acupuncture significantly reduced cortisol levels, improving mental well-being, which can positively impact physical symptoms related to fibroids and cysts.
Scientific Studies Supporting Acupuncture for Fibroids and Cysts
Scientific studies have highlighted acupuncture’s efficacy in managing fibroid and cyst symptoms:
2016 Study in Complementary Therapies in Medicine: This study found that acupuncture, in combination with herbal medicine, significantly improved symptoms associated with fibroids, such as heavy bleeding and pain, compared to conventional treatments alone.
2017 Research in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine: This study reviewed the effects of acupuncture on polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a condition marked by ovarian cysts.
The researchers found that acupuncture improved menstrual regularity and reduced cyst size in women with PCOS, demonstrating its potential in treating cyst-related symptoms.
2019 Meta-Analysis in Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine: This analysis reviewed studies on acupuncture’s impact on blood flow and inflammation in gynecological conditions.
The researchers concluded that acupuncture effectively reduces inflammation and increases blood flow, making it a promising option for managing fibroid and cyst symptoms.
Traditional Chinese Medicine Perspective on Fibroids and Cysts
In TCM, fibroids and cysts are often associated with stagnation of Qi and blood. This stagnation can lead to a buildup of energy and fluids, which can result in the formation of masses or cysts. Additionally, an excess of “dampness” or “heat” in the body can contribute to these conditions.
Acupuncture treatment for fibroids and cysts aims to balance the body’s energies by addressing the root cause of stagnation and promoting proper energy flow. By resolving blockages, TCM practitioners believe acupuncture helps the body naturally reduce or even eliminate these growths.
Why Choose The Blackheath London Acupuncture Clinic?
At The Blackheath London Acupuncture Clinic, we specialize in treating women’s health issues, including fibroids and ovarian cysts.
We take a comprehensive, holistic approach, focusing not just on alleviating symptoms but on restoring balance to your body to prevent recurrence.
Our Approach
Customized Treatment Plans: Each patient receives an individualized treatment plan based on her unique symptoms and TCM diagnosis.
Combination of Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine: To enhance the effectiveness of treatment, we may integrate herbal medicine to complement acupuncture.
Patient Education: We provide guidance on lifestyle, diet, and stress management, which are essential for maintaining hormone balance and preventing fibroid and cyst growth.
Contact Us;
If you’re struggling with fibroids or ovarian cysts and are looking for a natural way to manage symptoms, consider visiting The Blackheath London Acupuncture Clinic.
Website: AcupunctureBlackheath.com