Acupuncture and Chinese medicine for uterine fibroids
- rippleacupuncture
- Nov 10, 2025
- 5 min read
What is uterine fibroids
Uterine fibroids are prevalent, almost always benign (non-cancerous), and composed of muscle and fibrous tissue that develop within the uterus. Diagnosis typically involves a review of medical history, a physical examination, and imaging techniques such as ultrasound, which is considered the initial standard diagnostic step.
Symptoms
The common symptoms of uterine fibroids can include heavy or prolonged menstrual periods, pelvic pain and pressure, and bleeding between periods. Some individuals may also experience frequent urination, pain during intercourse, lower back or leg pain, bloating, constipation, and anaemia resulting from blood loss.
It is important to note that many people with fibroids do not experience any symptoms at all. Furthermore, when present, fibroid pain is typically described as pressure, heaviness, or a feeling of fullness. This often contrasts with endometriosis pain, which is frequently cyclical, more severe, and can be associated with bowel or bladder issues.
Cause
While the exact cause of uterine fibroids is not fully understood, evidence strongly suggests a significant link to hormonal imbalances. Specifically, both estrogen and progesterone are known to stimulate the growth of fibroids.In addition to these hormonal factors, several other elements may contribute to an increased risk of developing fibroids. These include a family history of fibroids, being overweight or obese, experiencing early menarche (starting menstruation at a young age), having insufficient levels of Vitamin D, and major stresses.
Treatment
The treatment options vary for uterine fibroids, which range from regular monitoring to medical, radiological, and surgical interventions, depending on the size of the fibroids, the severity of symptoms, and the patient's individual needs and fertility goals.
For small, asymptomatic fibroids, a regular observation approach may be recommended, where the fibroids are monitored over time. If symptoms such as bleeding or pain are present, medical treatments can be considered. These include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for pain relief, or hormonal methods such as birth control pills or an intrauterine device (IUD) to manage bleeding and pain.
Radiological procedures offer less invasive options (compared to surgeries) to shrink fibroids. These include uterine artery embolization (UAE), which blocks the blood supply to the fibroids, and high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU), which uses ultrasound waves to destroy fibroid tissue.
Surgical options are typically considered for symptomatic fibroids that have not responded to other treatments, or for those that are large or causing significant issues. Myomectomy involves the surgical removal of the fibroids while preserving the uterus, making it a suitable option for patients who wish to retain their fertility. Hysterectomy, the complete removal of the uterus, is a definitive solution for fibroids and may be recommended when other treatments are not effective or when fertility is no longer a concern.
Why acupuncture and Chinese herbs for the treatment of uterine fibroids?
From a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) perspective, uterine fibroids are viewed as stagnation of Qi (energy), Blood, and Phlegm (waste products). Acupuncture helps address this by increasing blood flow to the uterus, which disperses stagnation and reduces pain. The prescribed Chinese herbs are pungent, which aids in moving Qi and Blood to decrease fibroid size and alleviate associated pain.
Clinical evidence further supports the efficacy of this integrated approach. A 2024 systematic review and meta-analysis noted that combining acupuncture with Chinese herbal medicine effectively reduces uterine size, lowers hormone levels, and significantly improves the quality of life for patients. Furthermore, this combined therapy was found to have a more positive effect on uterine fibroid treatment compared to using Chinese herbs alone, highlighting the synergistic benefits of both modalities.
Diet and Lifestyle Recommendations
TCM emphasizes the importance of the digestive tract in helping to remove nodules, abnormal growths, and stagnation from the body. Implementing specific diet and lifestyle changes can greatly facilitate this healing process and enhance the effectiveness of your treatment:
Avoid unhealthy fats: Foods like fried items can burden the gallbladder and affect bile flow, which is important for detoxification and the proper elimination of waste products.
Reduce consumption of sugar and wheat: In TCM, these foods can contribute to increased dampness, which is believed to lead to Qi and Blood stagnation, exacerbating fibroid growth.
Increase organic foods: Minimizing processed and hormonally treated foods is vital, as they place an additional burden on the liver. The liver is a key organ in TCM and the Western Medicine for detoxifying excess estrogen, waste products, and toxins in the body, all of which are relevant to fibroid management.
Limit exposure to external oestrogen or chemicals that disrupt your natural oestrogen such as plastics, plastic wraps
Manage stress or trauma as in TCM, they contribute to Qi and blood stagnation due to obstructed flow.
I always encourage all clients experiencing new or worsening symptoms of unusual vaginal bleeding, postmenopausal bleeding, or continuous bleeding, to consult their doctor first. These symptoms require medical investigation as they may indicate serious conditions, including uterine cancer.
Most clients who seek my help have already received a medical diagnosis and are looking to explore natural, non-invasive remedies to manage their condition.
About the Author
Youngmi Choi
Ripple Acupuncture | Charlestown | Newcastle
As an AHPRA-registered acupuncturist with 15 years of nursing experience, I offer safe, effective, and holistic care. My special interests include women’s health & fertility, pain management, psycho-emotional well-being, and digestive balance. My approach is outcome-focused, and clients receive a clear care plan with personalized lifestyle advice.
If you have any questions about your uterine fibroids condition, please make an online booking, submit an online enquiry or call me on 0402 474 884.
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Reference
Chen T, Chen X, He W, Ma X, Zuo Z. Acupuncture combined with Chinese herbs versus Chinese herbs alone to improve the clinical efficacy of uterine fibroids: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Oncol. 2024 Nov 21;14:1456809. doi: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1456809. PMID: 39640285; PMCID: PMC11617359.
Zhang Y, Wei J, Gao C, Feng S, Wang H, Chai J, Zhu Y, Yuan Y, Ren L. The efficacy and safety of Chinese herbal medicine Shugan Sanjie decoction in the treatment of uterine fibroids: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Pharmacol. 2025 Apr 17;16:1508015. doi: 10.3389/fphar.2025.1508015. PMID: 40313615; PMCID: PMC12043887.
Huang YT, Wang MC, Liao JA, Chen WC, Chou YT, Cheng WJ. Efficacy of Chinese herbal medicines combined with high-intensity focused ultrasound for patients with uterine fibroids: A meta-analysis with core herbs exploration. Phytomedicine. 2025 Jul 25;143:156811. doi: 10.1016/j.phymed.2025.156811. Epub 2025 Apr 29. PMID: 40347927.
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