Uterine Prolapseaccording to TCM

What is Uterine Prolapse?

Uterine prolapse occurs when the uterus descends from its normal position into the vaginal canal, resulting from the weakening of the pelvic floor muscles and ligaments that support it.

This condition can lead to symptoms such as a sensation of heaviness or pulling in the pelvis, discomfort or pain during intercourse, urinary problems, and visible protrusion of the uterus through the vaginal opening. Uterine prolapse can significantly affect a woman's quality of life, making early diagnosis and management essential.

How does TCM view Uterine Prolapse?

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), uterine prolapse is understood through the concept of patterns, which are specific constellations of symptoms and signs reflecting an underlying imbalance. Recognizing these patterns is fundamental because it guides the selection of a tailored treatment strategy.

TCM believes that effective treatment hinges on correcting the root imbalance rather than just addressing the symptoms. Therefore, identifying the precise pattern behind uterine prolapse is essential for restoring harmony and health according to TCM principles.

Root Causes of Uterine Prolapse in TCM

TCM attributes uterine prolapse primarily to Qi Sinking and Qi Deficiency, with particular emphasis on the Spleen and Kidney systems. Qi Sinking, a condition where the body's vital energy weakens and moves downward, can lead to prolapse of the Uterus and other pelvic organs.

Additionally, Qi Deficiency, especially of the Spleen and Kidney, undermines the body's structural support, contributing to the weakening of muscles and ligaments necessary for uterine support. These TCM perspectives highlight the importance of nurturing Qi to prevent and treat uterine prolapse.

Explore below more details about what might cause Uterine prolapse 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 Uterine Prolapse

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

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

Qi Deficiency

Qi Deficiency in TCM is like running low on battery power. Qi is the vital energy that powers every function in your body. When there's a Qi Deficiency, it means your body doesn't have enough of this essential energy. This can make you feel tired all the time, weak, or even cause shortness of breath. It's similar to how you feel when you haven't had enough sleep or nutritious food. Your body just doesn't have the energy it needs to perform at its best. Unlike modern medicine, which often focuses on specific physical causes for fatigue and weakness, TCM views Qi Deficiency as an overall energy depletion that affects your entire well-being, and it seeks to replenish and balance this vital energy.... see more

Qi Deficiency Patterns That Can Lead to Uterine Prolapse

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Kidney Qi not Firm	Uterus prolapse, Lower back pain, Lower back weakness, Polyuria, Weak urine stream, Enuresis, Nocturnal emission, Generalized fatigue, Chills, Cold extremities, White vaginal discharge, Bearing down sensation in abdomen, Recurrent miscarriage... see more	You Gui Wan | Jin Suo Gu Jing Wan | Fu Tu Dan | Qing E Wan | Tu Si Zi Wan

Kidney

In TCM the Kidneys are regarded as the body's most fundamental reservoir of Essence, known as Jing, which influences growth, reproduction, and aging. They are not just organs for filtering blood, but a holistic system governing vital life forces. When the Kidneys malfunction in TCM, it can manifest as a variety of health issues, such as chronic fatigue, reproductive problems, imbalances in fluid metabolism leading to edema or dryness, lower back pain, and a sense of fear or insecurity.... see more

Kidney Patterns That Can Lead to Uterine Prolapse

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Kidney Qi not Firm	Uterus prolapse, Lower back pain, Lower back weakness, Polyuria, Weak urine stream, Enuresis, Nocturnal emission, Generalized fatigue, Chills, Cold extremities, White vaginal discharge, Bearing down sensation in abdomen, Recurrent miscarriage... see more	You Gui Wan | Jin Suo Gu Jing Wan | Fu Tu Dan | Qing E Wan | Tu Si Zi Wan

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 Uterine Prolapse

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

TCM Herbal Formulas for Uterine Prolapse

To counteract uterine prolapse, TCM recommends formulas that tonify Qi and strengthen the Spleen and Kidney. Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang, enriched with Milkvetch Roots (Huang Qi), is a preferred formula for its ability to lift Qi, thereby providing the necessary support to prevent prolapse.

Another important formula, You Gui Wan, targets Kidney Qi Deficiency, fortifying the body's foundational energy and enhancing structural integrity. These formulas exemplify the TCM approach of addressing uterine prolapse by bolstering the body's internal strength and balance.

Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address uterine prolapse, 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 uterine prolapse, such as Qi Collapsing or Qi Sinking or Spleen Qi Sinking

Learn more

All Formulas Recommended for Uterine Prolapse 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

Top Formula for Qi Deficiency:
You Gui Wan

Suitable for Qi Deficiency patterns that may cause uterine prolapse, such as Kidney Qi not Firm

Learn more

All Formulas Recommended for Uterine Prolapse Caused by Qi Deficiency

Formula	Patterns Suitable For
You Gui Wan	Kidney Qi not Firm
Jin Suo Gu Jing Wan	Kidney Qi not Firm
Fu Tu Dan	Kidney Qi not Firm
Qing E Wan	Kidney Qi not Firm
Tu Si Zi Wan	Kidney Qi not Firm

Acupoints for Uterine Prolapse

TCM also advocates for acupuncture as an effective treatment for uterine prolapse, with specific acupoints selected to strengthen Qi and lift the prolapsed organs. Points such as Ciliao BL-32 and Shangliao BL-31 on the Bladder Channel are targeted for their role in regulating the Lower Burner and strengthening the pelvic area.

Additionally, Zigong EX-CA-1 and Tituo EX-CA, extra points specifically related to the uterus, are emphasized for their ability to directly lift and regulate Qi in the pelvic region. Through the strategic use of these acupoints, TCM aims to restore the proper positioning of the uterus and alleviate the symptoms of prolapse.

Explore below some acupoints used to address uterine prolapse, organized by meridian.

Pishu BL-20

1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the 11th thoracic vertebra (T11).

Shangliao BL-31

In the 1st posterior sacral foramen, about midway between the posterior superior iliac spine (PSIS) and the midline.

Ciliao BL-32

In the 2nd posterior sacral foramen, about midway between the posterior superior iliac spine (PSIS) and the midline.

Dadun LIV-1

On the lateral side of the dorsum of the great toe terminal phalanx, between the lateral corner of the nail and interphalangeal joint.

Taichong LIV-3

On the dorsum of the foot, between the 1st and 2nd metatarsal bones, in the depression proximal to the metatarsophalangeal joints and the proximal angle between the two bones.

Jimai LIV-12

Interior and lateral to the pubic spine, 2.5 cun lateral to the Qugu REN-2 on the anterior midline and 1 cun inferior to the upper border of the symphysis.

Daimai GB-26

Level with the umbilicus, directly below Zhangmen LIV-13 which is on the free end of the 11th rib.

Wushu GB-27

In the lateral side of the abdomen, in the front of the anterior superior iliac spine (ASIS), 3 cun below the level of the umbilicus.

Weidao GB-28

Anterior and Inferior to the anterior superior iliac spine (ASIS), 0.5 cun anterior and inferior to Wushu GB-27.

Shuiquan KID-5

1 cun directly below Taixi KID-3, in the depression over the joint space between the talus and calcaneus.

Dahe KID-12

4 cun below the umbilicus, 0.5 cun lateral to the anterior midline.

Zigong EX-CA-1

3 cun lateral to the anterior midline and 1 cun superior to the upper border of the pubic symphysis.

Tituo EX-CA

4 cun lateral to the anterior midline and 2 cun superior to the upper border of the pubic symphysis.

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.

Guilai ST-29

4 cun below the umbilicus, 2 cun lateral to the anterior midline.

Qihai REN-6

On the midline of the abdomen, 1.5 cun below the umbilicus.

Shaofu HE-8

On the palmar surface, between the 4th and 5th metacarpal bones. When a fist is made, the point is where the tip of the little finger rests.