Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine in the treatment of gynecology-related problems: Bridging the Gap Between Western and Eastern Care Brings Results Traditional Chinese medicine includes acupuncture and the use of Chinese herbs formulated specifically for your condition. For 5000 years, gynecology related conditions have been effectively treated with the use of TCM.
Western medicine, as we know it, has only been in existence for 200+ years. Doctors in these ancient times were referred to as “breast doctors” or doctors who treated diseases “under the skirt.” They relied solely on asking questions about the patient’s signs and symptoms, taking the pulse, and examining the patient’s tongue to determine their pattern of disease and treatment protocol.
In those days, extreme cultural conservatism prevailed, and exams were not permitted. Women’s reproductive health includes a long life span. Everything from puberty related issues, menstrual irregularities, fertility, pregnancy, postpartum, and menopause In TCM, there is a strong correlation between the brain and reproductive centers, the heart, and the uterus.
In fact, theory states that the “heart houses the mind.” TCM treatment includes a broad and comprehensive understanding of how these elements relate to the treatment of disease, whether physical or emotional. TCM uses a holistic approach and unifies physical and emotional issues. Western medicine, on the other hand, sees a dichotomy between the body and emotions. In fact, Wikipedia defines “gynecology” as the medical practice dealing with the health of the female reproductive system (uterus, vagina, and ovaries).
So what happens to the rest of our bodies and minds? Hopefully, we are seen as more than that. But are we? Western medicine uses a linear approach to solving problems, using medications as their first line of defense. If you tell your doctor you are unhappy or depressed, out comes the prescription pad!
Conditions commonly treated with TCM:
- Amenorrhea (absent periods)
- Anxiety.
- Cervical dysplasia.
- Depression,
- irritability, and
- moodiness
- Dysmenorrhea (painful periods)
- Endometriosis.
- Fibroids.
- Genital herpes.
- Genital warts (HPV)
- Infertility.
- Hormonal migraines.
- Insomnia.
- Irregular periods.
- Long or short periods.
- Heavy periods.
- Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
- Peri-menopause and menopausal symptoms
- Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)
- pregnancy-related issues.
- Post Partum.
- Spotting at times other than menstruation Skin rashes, acne
- Thyroid conditions.
- Chronic yeast infections.
- Urinary tract infections (UTI)
- Vaginal itching.
TCM’s view of the organ systems differs when compared to that of Western medicine. The kidney system, for example, is responsible for reproductive development, aging, and reproductive problems. The spleen system is responsible for making qi (vital energy) and blood. Since the heart and mind are interconnected energetically and through pathways in the body, it is an important aspect of calmness, wellness, and an even emotional state.
The liver system travels through the reproductive areas, through the breast, through the chest, and to the head. PMS signs are usually due to blockages in this system. TCM seeks and treats the root cause rather than masking symptoms. By treating the symptoms, Western medicine prolongs illness by prescribing medications that really never address the true problem. Why not rid yourself of the ailment once and for all? TCM looks at the effects of your lifestyle, nutritional choices, and stress as factors that help or hurt your problems.
Your TCM practitioner discusses options and choices to improve your health and wellness. TCM has early detection systems that treat illnesses before they actually show up on a diagnostic test. This aspect is often underutilized, and educating patients on how TCM works enhances patient care. TCM supports the immune system, reduces stress, improves vitality, and helps you with your sense of well-being… naturally.
Avoid chronic illnesses if you can keep yourself healthy and strong. Acupuncture is now covered by many insurance companies. Check your coverage and take advantage of being healthier more naturally without the harsh side effects of drugs. Bridging the gap between Western and Eastern care improves your quality of life. Explore TCM for any of your health problems. By using the best of both worlds, you can feel better. You are much more than ovaries and a uterus! Your first asset is your health.