5 Reasons to Choose Integrative Medicine for Women's Health
Research studies from around the world have shown acupuncture and integrative medicine to be effective treatment modalities for several women’s health conditions. Integrative medicine and Traditional Chinese Medicine are uniquely suited to address the underlying physiological cause of many complex medical conditions affecting women and their families today.
The goal of integrative medicine is to address the root cause of many interrelated diagnoses and symptoms affecting women’s health and well-being. For patients living with chronic and complex medical conditions, a multiple-modality approach is always best. Various treatments can support the other, creating a one-plus-one-equals-three affect.
At OMBE, we combine acupuncture, nutritional counseling, herbal medicine, functional medicine testing, as well as other lifestyle modifications to create a customized treatment plan for each client. These therapeutic modalities can be beneficial for a wide range of gynecological, gastrointestinal, and autoimmune conditions affecting women. Here are five reasons for women to choose integrative medicine when considering future treatment options:
1. Infertility
Research has been growing for more than twenty years in regards to the multiple benefits of acupuncture for infertility. Multiple studies from around the world have shown the effectiveness of acupuncture for improving IVF outcomes as well as restoring ovulatory function. When acupuncture is combined with other modalities such as targeted nutritional counseling and other lifestyle modifications, studies show further improvements for pregnancy and live births.
If you are wondering, the benefits are similar for male-factor fertility with acupuncture and specific nutritional support improving multiple sperm parameters in research. The combination of these therapeutic modalities can be beneficial for the treatment of unexplained fertility, premature ovarian failure, thyroid disorders, as well as endometriosis, and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
2. Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a chronic condition characterized by severe pain during periods, sexual intercourse, bowel movements and urination. According to the World Health Organization, it occurs in approximately 10% of adolescent girls and women of reproductive age. Additional symptoms include nausea, vomiting, and digestive issues such as constipation.
Women with endometriosis also experience fatigue, depression, anxiety, and infertility. Given the devastating nature of this condition, an integrative approach using multiple treatment strategies seems essential. Multiple studies have shown acupuncture, biofeedback, essentially fatty acids, specific strains of probiotics, as well as anti-inflammatory supplementation to be helpful in managing the progression and symptoms of endometriosis.
Additionally, other conditions contributing to pelvic pain including low back and hip pain, fibroids, and interstitial cystitis traditionally respond well to acupuncture and integrative therapies.
3. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Polycystic ovary syndrome, or PCOS, is a chronic gynecological condition often misdiagnosed as symptoms overlap with many other conditions. Although irregular periods and cystic ovaries are common PCOS symptoms, not all patients exhibit hallmark signs of PCOS. Women with PCOS often have difficulty conceiving leading to assisted reproductive technologies such as IVF.
However, findings on integrative therapies including dietary changes, the inclusion of anti-inflammatory foods, and certain supplements are promising. Additionally, a study on anovulatory women with PCOS showed that electroacupuncture can restore ovulation. For women already undergoing IVF, the data is also promising. A meta-analysis found that acupuncture improves ongoing pregnancy rates and reduces the risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome.
4. Pregnancy Concerns
Low back pain, pelvic pain, nausea and vomiting, breech presentation, and delayed labor are just a few pregnancy-related conditions that respond well to integrative therapies. Research has established acupuncture as an effective treatment for pelvic and low back pain. Studies have also found acupressure and massage to be effective for reducing pain during labor. The acupuncture point, Pericardium 6 or PC6 has long been studied for its effectiveness for nausea and vomiting.
Additionally, evidence also indicates that the use of acupuncture in combination with moxibustion or laser acupuncture is effective to turn breeched babies. Moxibustion is a traditional Chinese method of burning moxa wool or sticks made from the herb, Artemisia vulgaris near the acupuncture point, Bladder 67. Bladder 67 is located on the lateral edge of the fifth toenail. Moxibustion is relatively easy to learn, can be done at home, and can prevent Caesarian sections in some women preventing further complications.
5. Autoimmune Conditions
Although not specific to women, the prevalence of autoimmune conditions is two times higher than women according to data. The mechanism of many autoimmune conditions is not well understood. However, the general theory is that the immune system creates a wide range of immune-mediated and inflammatory reactions that cause tissue damage to a several body systems.
Autoimmune conditions include Crohn’s disease, Graves’ and Hashimoto’s disease, Lupus, multiple sclerosis, psoriasis, and rheumatoid arthritis. Managing a chronic, autoimmune condition is never easy. Integrative medicine modalities such as acupuncture, meditation, anti-inflammatory diets, and exercise all have a role in reducing the symptoms and preventing the progression of these conditions. Acupuncture is uniquely suited to address many inflammatory conditions according to research due to its ability to regulate levels of inflammation and pain.
If you found this article helpful, you may also enjoy Integrative Medicine & Pediatrics as well as How Acupuncture Works.
More About OMBE
OMBE is celebrating 15 years of service in Massachusetts! Additionally, we are now scheduling in-person acupuncture sessions for our South Shore and Cape Cod clients. Telehealth consultations are available for all of our Massachusetts clients living in the Boston area, North Shore, and Western Massachusetts.
Learn more about us, read our organic health philosophy, or schedule an appointment. Contact us for any questions about appointment scheduling, acupuncture services, or integrative medicine. We look forward to hearing from you!