Image courtesy of UF Health. Original image © Getty Images.
Uterine fibroids (UFs), also known as leiomyomas, are non-cancerous growths in the uterus that affect many women during their reproductive years. While often asymptomatic, fibroids can cause significant discomfort, including heavy menstrual bleeding, abdominal pain, bloating, and pelvic pressure. Conventional treatments like medication and surgery are available, but many women are exploring alternative options that are less invasive and holistic.
One such alternative is Tung’s Acupuncture, a specialized method within Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Tung’s system uses unique acupuncture points that are particularly effective in addressing gynecological conditions, including uterine fibroids.
Tung’s Acupuncture and Uterine Fibroids
In TCM, uterine fibroids are often attributed to imbalances in Qi, Blood, and organ systems. Tung’s Acupuncture works to restore balance, alleviate symptoms, and promote overall uterine health by activating specific points that enhance Qi and blood flow. Clinical studies have shown that acupuncture may help reduce the symptoms of uterine fibroids by addressing their root causes (Cruz et al., 2019).
Clinical Results
A feasibility study assessed the use of Tung’s Acupuncture in treating uterine fibroids. The study involved eight participants and applied a seven-point protocol tailored to address the specific symptoms of fibroids. After six weeks, participants reported significant improvements in 10 out of 14 surveyed symptoms, including:
Heavy menstrual bleeding
Abdominal pain
Pelvic pain
Emotional imbalance
Low-back pain
By the 12th week, several symptoms—including spotting, urinary leakage, and painful intercourse—were entirely resolved. Notably, there were no adverse events, highlighting the safety and acceptability of this treatment approach (Cruz et al., 2019).
Tung’s Acupuncture Protocol
The study employed the following Tung points:
Zheng Hui (1010.01): Promotes emotional stability and uterine regulation.
Zhen Jing (1010.08): Relieves pain and enhances Qi balance.
Da Bai (22.04) and Ling Gu (22.05): Address low-back pain and pelvic discomfort.
Shui Jing (66.13): Targets bloating and fibroid-related discomfort.
These points reflect the unique diagnostic and treatment principles of Tung’s Acupuncture, emphasizing localized and distal point combinations to achieve systemic results.
Advantages of Tung’s Acupuncture
Tung’s Acupuncture is minimally invasive, avoids the risks associated with surgery, and addresses both symptoms and root causes. Additionally, it complements existing medical treatments, making it a valuable option for those seeking holistic care.
The Future of Uterine Fibroid Treatment
The study underscores the potential of acupuncture as a viable treatment for uterine fibroids. However, future research should involve larger randomized controlled trials, standardized protocols, and long-term follow-ups to further validate these findings (Segars et al., 2014; Zhang et al., 2010).
If you’re looking for a holistic approach to managing uterine fibroids, contact Dao Chinese Medicine to learn more about how acupuncture can support your journey to better health.
References
Cruz J, Carrington L, Hong H. A Feasibility Study on Treatment of Uterine Fibroids with Tung's Acupuncture. Med Acupunct. 2019 Dec 1;31(6):384-391. doi:10.1089/acu.2019.1385. PMID: 31871527; PMCID: PMC6918529.
Segars JH, Parrott EC, Nagel JD, et al. Proceedings from the Third National Institutes of Health International Congress on Advances in Uterine Leiomyoma Research: Comprehensive review, conference summary, and future recommendations. Hum Reprod Update. 2014;20(3):309–333.
Dalton-Brewer N. The role of complementary and alternative medicine for the management of fibroids and associated symptomatology. Curr Obstet Gynecol Rep. 2016;5:110–118.
Sabry M, Al-Hendy A. Innovative oral treatments of uterine leiomyoma. Obstet Gynecol Int. 2012;2012:943635.
Stewart EA. Uterine fibroids. Lancet. 2001;357(9252):293–298.
Zhang Y, Peng W, Clarke J, Liu Z. Acupuncture for uterine fibroids. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2010;(1):CD007221.
Aissani B, Zhang K, Wiener H. Genetic determinants of uterine fibroid size in the multiethnic NIEHS uterine fibroid study. Int J Mol Epidemiol Genet. 2015;6(1):9–19.
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