Endometriosis is a complex, often misunderstood condition that affects roughly 1 in 10 women and people assigned female at birth. Despite how common it is, many people live with it for years before receiving a diagnosis—or are often told their pain is simply part of being a woman. At Acumamas, we meet people every day who are navigating intense, chronic pelvic pain, irregular cycles, bloating, and emotional exhaustion—all while trying to function in daily life. The physical pain is only one layer. Many people also carry the emotional toll of not being believed, not being taken seriously by the medical system, or feeling disconnected from their own bodies. For some, endometriosis can impact fertility, relationships, work, and quality of life in ways that are hard to talk about.
We want you to know: your pain is real. Your experience matters. And there are ways to support your body naturally, even if you’re still waiting on a diagnosis or considering other treatment options.
What Is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus begins growing outside the uterus. These growths may attach to the ovaries, fallopian tubes, bladder, intestines, or other pelvic organs. Every month, this tissue responds to hormonal changes—thickening, breaking down, and bleeding. But unlike menstrual blood, it has nowhere to go. This leads to inflammation, internal bleeding, and over time, the formation of scar tissue (adhesions).
Symptoms can vary widely and may include:
- Severe menstrual cramps
- Pain during or after sex
- Chronic pelvic or abdominal pain
- Digestive issues like bloating or constipation
- Pain with bowel movements or urination
- Fatigue and low energy
- Difficulty conceiving
Some people have all of these symptoms. Others may have no noticeable symptoms at all and only discover they have endometriosis during fertility testing or surgery.
Because endometriosis doesn’t always show up clearly on imaging and symptoms can overlap with other conditions (like IBS or PCOS), it’s often a long road to diagnosis. That’s why we believe in offering support based on what you’re experiencing—not just what’s written in your chart.
How Acupuncture can support people living with Endometriosis
At Acumamas, we use acupuncture as a gentle, evidence-informed way to help manage the pain and hormonal imbalances often associated with endometriosis. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) views endometriosis as a pattern of stagnation—where energy (Qi) and blood are not flowing smoothly through the pelvis. This stagnation leads to pain, inflammation, and emotional distress.
Modern research aligns with many of these ideas. Acupuncture may help relieve endometriosis symptoms by:
- Regulating the nervous system: Chronic pain can keep the body in a state of high stress. Acupuncture helps shift the body into a parasympathetic, “rest and digest” state, lowering cortisol and increasing the release of natural pain-relieving endorphins.
- Reducing inflammation: Acupuncture may decrease pro-inflammatory cytokines that contribute to pelvic inflammation and pain flare-ups.
- Improving blood flow: Increased circulation to the uterus and pelvic region can help reduce stagnation and improve oxygenation to affected tissues.
- Balancing hormones: Regular treatments can help regulate cycles, reduce estrogen dominance, and support the body’s natural hormonal rhythm.
Many of our patients report that acupuncture becomes a space of relief—physically, emotionally, and mentally. It offers not only symptom relief, but a moment to reconnect with the body in a way that feels nourishing, not frustrating.
Naturopathic medicine for hormonal and immune support
Endometriosis is not just a reproductive condition—it’s increasingly understood as a full-body, systemic issue with immune, hormonal, and inflammatory dimensions. Naturopathic medicine offers a holistic lens that looks beyond symptom management to address root imbalances that may be contributing to your pain or progression of the disease.
At Acumamas, our naturopathic doctors take the time to understand your unique experience. We may explore:
- Comprehensive hormone testing: Including estrogen, progesterone, thyroid markers, and cortisol levels
- Inflammatory load and immune response: As chronic inflammation can perpetuate endometriosis symptoms
- Gut health: Many people with endometriosis also struggle with digestive concerns, and improving gut function can positively impact hormone metabolism and pain
- Detoxification pathways: Supporting the liver’s ability to metabolize and clear excess estrogen
From there, your ND may create a treatment plan that includes:
- Anti-inflammatory nutrition strategies tailored to your sensitivities and lifestyle
- Targeted supplementation, such as magnesium for muscle relaxation, omega-3s for inflammation, or DIM to support estrogen metabolism
- Herbal support, using plants like chaste tree, turmeric, or green tea extract—chosen for their hormone-balancing and anti-inflammatory properties
- Lifestyle recommendations that fit your energy level and day-to-day demands, with an emphasis on sustainability, not perfection
This is not about “curing” endometriosis. It’s about finding tools that help reduce pain, ease your cycle, and bring more balance and predictability to your life.
Fertility and Endometriosis
Endometriosis is one of the leading causes of infertility, but not everyone with endometriosis struggles to conceive—and not everyone who struggles with fertility knows they have endometriosis. The relationship is complex, and each path is different.
At Acumamas, our fertility acupuncturists and naturopaths work together to support cycle regulation, reduce inflammation, and optimize ovulation and implantation. If you’re preparing for IUI or IVF, we can collaborate with your reproductive endocrinologist to time treatments appropriately and offer adjunct support through each phase.
We approach fertility support with deep respect for the emotional landscape it brings. Whether you’re hoping to conceive now or thinking about it in the future, our goal is to support your body in feeling well and fully resourced—whatever your next steps may be.
You deserve to be heard and supported
Endometriosis can feel isolating, but you are not alone. Whether you’ve just begun exploring a diagnosis or have been living with symptoms for years, our team at Acumamas is here to meet you with kindness, respect, and whole-person care.
Our integrated clinic in Vancouver offers acupuncture, naturopathic medicine, pelvic floor physiotherapy, and counselling—all under one roof. We work collaboratively to create a care plan that makes sense for your life and your needs, not just your symptoms.
You don’t need to be in crisis to ask for help. Relief may not happen overnight, but together, we can create a gentler, more supportive way forward.
Ready to begin?
If you’re living with endometriosis or chronic pelvic pain and want to explore natural, integrative support, we invite you to connect with us. Our team is here to listen, answer your questions, and help you find the right care path—without pressure or judgment.
