Prolapsed Bladderaccording to TCM

What is Prolapsed Bladder?

A prolapsed bladder, also known as cystocele, is a condition where the bladder descends into the vaginal canal due to weakened pelvic floor muscles and supporting tissue.

This typically happens following childbirth, heavy lifting, or as a result of aging. The condition manifests as a bulge in the vagina, discomfort, and urinary complications, significantly impacting daily activities and quality of life. Prolapsed bladder is a common issue among women, especially those who have experienced multiple childbirths.

How Does TCM View Prolapsed Bladder?

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), a prolapsed bladder is viewed through a unique lens. It is often attributed to a fundamental imbalance in the body's energy systems, particularly a deficiency or sinking of Qi (vital energy).

TCM practitioners approach this condition by aiming to restore the balance of Qi, strengthen the body's energy, and enhance the integrity of the pelvic floor. The focus is on holistic healing, addressing both the physical symptoms and the underlying energy imbalances.

Root Causes of Prolapsed Bladder in TCM

From the TCM perspective, prolapsed bladder can be caused by several imbalances. Qi sinking or Qi collapsing is a common cause, where the body's vital energy is weakened, leading to a lack of support for the organs. This condition is often accompanied by symptoms like a bearing-down sensation in the abdomen and chronic diarrhea.

Another cause can be Spleen Qi Sinking, where a weak digestive system leads to inadequate energy support, exacerbating pelvic organ prolapse. TCM treatments aim to identify and correct these specific imbalances to alleviate symptoms and prevent recurrence.

Explore below more details about what might cause Prolapsed bladder according to TCM.

Qi Sinking

Qi Sinking is a pattern of disharmony in TCM where the body's energy, or Qi, is thought to "sink" or drop down. Imagine a balloon slowly deflating and falling; that's similar to what happens with Qi Sinking. This can lead to feelings of heaviness, fatigue, and even physical symptoms like prolapse of organs or frequent urination. It's as if the body's energy, which usually supports and holds things in place, isn't able to do its job properly. TCM views this as an imbalance where the uplifting and supporting qualities of Qi are weakened.... see more

Qi Sinking Patterns That Can Lead to Prolapsed Bladder

Common Symptoms: Uterine Prolapse Stomach Prolapse Anus Prolapse Hemorrhoids Generalized Fatigue Lack Of Appetite Diarrhea Depression

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Qi Collapsing or Qi Sinking	Bladder prolapse, Uterine prolapse, Prolapsed bladder, Stomach prolapse, Nephroptosis, Anus prolapse, Bearing down sensation in abdomen, Hemorrhoids, Chronic diarrhea, Frequent and urgent urination, Urinary incontinence, Generalized fatigue, Low energy, Intestines prolapse, Vaginal prolapse... see more	Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang | Du Shen Tang
Spleen Qi Sinking	Bladder prolapse, Lack of appetite, Slight abdominal distension after eating	Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang

Spleen

In TCM the Spleen plays a vital role in digestion and transformation, converting food into energy and nutrients, and overseeing the distribution of Qi and Blood. It's also crucial in maintaining the health of muscles and limbs and ensuring the blood remains within the vessels. When the Spleen malfunctions in TCM, it can lead to a variety of issues such as digestive disorders, fatigue, weak muscles, bloating, and a feeling of heaviness. It can also cause a pale complexion, poor appetite, and a tendency to bruise easily. Emotionally, a Spleen imbalance is often associated with excessive worry or overthinking, reflecting its role in the interplay between physical and mental health.... see more

Spleen Patterns That Can Lead to Prolapsed Bladder

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Spleen Qi Sinking	Bladder prolapse, Lack of appetite, Slight abdominal distension after eating	Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang

TCM Herbal Formulas for Prolapsed Bladder

TCM offers several remedies for prolapsed bladder, focusing on strengthening Qi and supporting organ systems. A widely recommended formula is Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang, which contains Milkvetch Roots (Huang Qi). This formula is specifically designed to enhance Qi and support organ function. It's beneficial for conditions related to Qi Deficiency and sinking, helping to uplift the body's energy and support the pelvic organs.

The choice of herbs and formulas in TCM is tailored to the individual's specific pattern of imbalance, ensuring a targeted and effective treatment approach.

Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address prolapsed bladder, organized by cause and by formula type.

Top Formula for Qi Sinking:
Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang

Suitable for Qi Sinking patterns that may cause prolapsed bladder, such as Qi Collapsing or Qi Sinking or Spleen Qi Sinking

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All Formulas Recommended for Prolapsed Bladder Caused by Qi Sinking

Formula	Patterns Suitable For
Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang	Qi Collapsing or Qi Sinking, Spleen Qi Sinking
Du Shen Tang	Qi Collapsing or Qi Sinking

Acupoints for Prolapsed Bladder

TCM also incorporates acupuncture as a treatment for prolapsed bladder. One of the key acupoints is Baihui DU-20, located at the vertex of the head. This point is known for its ability to expel Interior Wind, subdue or raise Yang, and benefit the brain and sensory organs.

Stimulating Baihui DU-20 can help in clearing the Mind and regaining consciousness, making it a vital point in treating conditions related to Qi sinking and overall energy imbalance. Acupuncture, combined with herbal medicine, offers a comprehensive approach to managing prolapsed bladder in TCM.

See more details below about Baihui DU-20, an acupoint used to address prolapsed bladder.

Baihui DU-20

At the vertex, at the junction of a line connecting the apex of the ears and the midline, in the depression 7 cun above the posterior hairline and 5 cun behind the anterior hairline.