Complementary and Integrative Therapies for Endometriosis

Endometriosis can cause a lot of pain. It affects many women. Sometimes, regular medical treatments are not enough. Some people try other ways to feel better. These are called complementary and integrative therapies. They work with, or alongside, regular medical care.^1,2

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese practice. Thin needles are placed in certain spots on the body. It can help the body release natural pain relievers.^1,3

Studies show that acupuncture may reduce endometriosis pain and pelvic pain associated with endometriosis. If you have received surgery to treat your endometriosis, acupuncture could also help with pain post-surgery. While acupuncture shows promise in the realm of pain relief, more research is still needed to fully understand how acupuncture can help with endometriosis.^1-3

Herbs and supplements

Some women take herbs and supplements to help with pain relief from endometriosis. These may include herbs and supplements like:²

• Licorice root
• Magnesium
• Vitamin B1, B6
• Vitamin D
• Omega-3 fatty acids

There is not enough research to determine whether herbs and supplements actually help with endometriosis symptoms. In addition, supplements are not regulated by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) the same way other drugs are. This means that no outside agency confirms the ingredients or suggested dose.^1,2,4

For example, a fish oil supplement may have more or less fish oil than listed on the label. A supplement may also contain ingredients that are not labeled correctly or at all. This can be dangerous. It can lead to taking too much or taking unwanted ingredients.⁴

The FDA created good manufacturing practices (GMPs) to help this situation. GMPs are guidelines for companies to follow when making supplements. But the FDA rarely inspects facilities making supplements in the United States. Companies outside the United States do not have these inspections at all.⁴

Many more supplements are sold than are tested. Your doctor can help you decide if a supplement is safe.⁴

Chiropractic care

Chiropractic care focuses on the spine. It can help with pain in the back and pelvis. Many people with endometriosis have pelvic pain. Chiropractic adjustments may help to reduce this pain.^5,6

Chiropractors use their hands to adjust the spine. This can help improve how the body moves. It might also reduce muscle tension. Some studies show that chiropractic care can help with pelvic pain. More research is needed to learn how well it works for endometriosis.^5,6

Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS)

Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) can offer pain relief for those with endometriosis. A TENS unit is a small, portable device that delivers mild electrical currents through electrodes placed on the skin.^1,6

These electrical impulses are thought to reduce pelvic pain associated with endometriosis in 2 main ways:^1,6

Stimulating the body's natural pain-relieving mechanisms (endorphins)
Blocking the transmission of pain signals to the brain

TENS is a non-invasive option that can be used at home. However, consult with your doctor before using TENS, to ensure it is appropriate and to receive guidance on proper usage.^1,6

Mind-body practices

Mind-body practices help connect the mind and body. These include things like meditation, yoga, and deep breathing. These practices can help reduce stress and tension as well as help with relaxation. Studies also show that mind-body therapies can help reduce pain. This can help you to feel more in control of your pain management.^7,8

Examples of mind-body practices include:^7,8

• Meditation
• Mindfulness
• Yoga
• Tai chi
• Qigong
• Hypnosis

Talk with your doctor

It is important to remember that complementary and integrative therapies are not a cure for endometriosis. They can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.¹

Talk to a doctor before trying any new therapy. A doctor can help determine if a therapy is safe and right for you. They can help you create a plan that combines regular medical care with complementary therapies.