Lower Abdominal Fibroids And Cystsaccording to TCM

What are Lower Abdominal Fibroids and Cysts?

Lower abdominal fibroids and cysts are benign growths that can develop within or on the uterus (fibroids) and in the ovaries (cysts). Fibroids are made of muscle cells and other tissues, while cysts are fluid-filled sacs.

Both conditions can cause a range of symptoms, including pelvic pain, heavy menstrual bleeding, and pressure on other pelvic organs, potentially impacting fertility and general comfort. Their presence in the lower abdomen often necessitates a medical evaluation to determine the best course of action for management or treatment.

How does TCM view Lower Abdominal Fibroids and Cysts?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approaches lower abdominal fibroids and cysts from a holistic perspective, seeing them as manifestations of underlying disharmonies within the body. TCM posits that such conditions arise when the flow of Qi (vital energy) and Blood is obstructed, leading to accumulations that manifest physically as fibroids or cysts.

Identifying the specific pattern of disharmony is crucial in TCM, as it dictates the personalized treatment plan aimed at restoring balance and resolving the growths by addressing their root causes.

Root Causes of Lower Abdominal Fibroids And Cysts in TCM

In TCM, the formation of lower abdominal fibroids and cysts is often associated with Blood Stasis and Phlegm accumulation, specifically Blood Stagnation and Phlegm in the Uterus. These conditions reflect an impairment in the body’s ability to circulate Qi and Blood efficiently, leading to the development of fibroids and cysts.

Symptoms such as persistent uterine bleeding of dark blood, lower abdominal distension and pain, menstrual cramps, and infertility are indicative of these underlying patterns. Understanding and treating these disharmonies are essential for managing and potentially resolving fibroids and cysts.

Explore below more details about what might cause Lower abdominal fibroids and cysts according to TCM.

Blood Stasis

Blood Stasis in TCM is a concept where the blood flow in the body is not as smooth or efficient as it should be. Imagine a river that's supposed to flow freely, but instead, it's getting blocked or moving too slowly in some parts. This can lead to various health issues, like pain that feels sharp or stabbing, dark bruises, and a complexion that looks purplish. TCM believes that good health relies on the smooth and vibrant flow of Qi and blood throughout the body, so when blood gets stuck, it's like a traffic jam in your body, leading to discomfort or health problems.... see more

Blood Stasis Patterns That Can Lead to Lower Abdominal Fibroids And Cysts

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Blood Stagnation and Phlegm in the Uterus	Fibroids and cysts in the lower abdomen, Persistent uterine bleeding of purple or dark blood, Lower abdominal distension and pain that increases with pressure, Lower abdominal fibroids and cysts, Menstrual cramps, Irregular periods, Abdominal pain, Prolonged lochia, Infertility, Postpartum hemorrhage, Retained placenta... see more	Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan

Phlegm

In TCM "Phlegm" as a pattern of disharmony is a complex concept that extends beyond the physical manifestation of mucus. It represents a pathological factor that can disrupt the flow of Qi (vital energy) and blood, leading to various health issues. Phlegm in TCM is seen as a sticky, turbid substance arising from the body's inability to metabolize fluids properly, often due to a dysfunction of the spleen. It's not only associated with respiratory problems like cough and congestion but also with systemic issues. Symptoms can include a feeling of heaviness, mental cloudiness, dizziness, and in some cases, the formation of lumps or masses. Phlegm can even be "invisible," contributing to emotional disturbances like depression or stress. ... see more

Phlegm Patterns That Can Lead to Lower Abdominal Fibroids And Cysts

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Blood Stagnation and Phlegm in the Uterus	Fibroids and cysts in the lower abdomen, Persistent uterine bleeding of purple or dark blood, Lower abdominal distension and pain that increases with pressure, Lower abdominal fibroids and cysts, Menstrual cramps, Irregular periods, Abdominal pain, Prolonged lochia, Infertility, Postpartum hemorrhage, Retained placenta... see more	Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan

Uterus

In TCM the Uterus (or "Bao Gong") is not just a reproductive organ but a vital system closely linked to Kidney energy, responsible for menstrual health, fertility, and pregnancy. It's also connected to the Heart and Liver, reflecting the importance of emotional and blood health in reproductive wellness. In TCM, the Uterus is seen as a reservoir of Blood and Qi, crucial for reproductive health and general vitality. When the Uterus malfunctions or is imbalanced, it can lead to menstrual irregularities, infertility, miscarriages, or menopausal symptoms. Additionally, there might be symptoms like lower abdominal pain or emotional disturbances such as mood swings, often linked to Liver Qi stagnation. These manifestations highlight the TCM perspective that the health of the Uterus is intertwined with the overall balance of energy and blood in the body, as well as emotional well-being.... see more

Uterus Patterns That Can Lead to Lower Abdominal Fibroids And Cysts

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Blood Stagnation and Phlegm in the Uterus	Fibroids and cysts in the lower abdomen, Persistent uterine bleeding of purple or dark blood, Lower abdominal distension and pain that increases with pressure, Lower abdominal fibroids and cysts, Menstrual cramps, Irregular periods, Abdominal pain, Prolonged lochia, Infertility, Postpartum hemorrhage, Retained placenta... see more	Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan

TCM Herbal Formulas for Lower Abdominal Fibroids And Cysts

To address lower abdominal fibroids and cysts, TCM recommends specific formulas that invigorate Blood and dispel Blood Stagnation. One such formula is Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan, which includes Cinnamon twigs (Gui Zhi) as a key herb.

This formula is tailored to treat patterns like Blood Stagnation and Phlegm in the Uterus, aiming to restore the free flow of Qi and Blood, reduce stagnation, and consequently dissolve fibroids and cysts. By employing a targeted approach based on the individual’s pattern of disharmony, TCM seeks to not only alleviate the symptoms associated with fibroids and cysts but also address their root causes.

See more details below about Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan, a herbal formula used to address lower abdominal fibroids and cysts.

Top Formula for Blood Stasis:
Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan

Suitable for Blood Stasis patterns that may cause lower abdominal fibroids and cysts, such as Blood Stagnation and Phlegm in the Uterus

Learn more

Top Formula for Phlegm:
Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan

Suitable for Phlegm patterns that may cause lower abdominal fibroids and cysts, such as Blood Stagnation and Phlegm in the Uterus

Learn more

TCM Herbs for Lower Abdominal Fibroids And Cysts

Explore below some TCM herbs used to address lower abdominal fibroids and cysts, organized by herb category.