Retained Fetal Tissueaccording to TCM
Symptom family: Postpartum issues
What is Retained Fetal Tissue?
Retained fetal tissue is a medical condition where fetal or placental material remains in the uterus after childbirth or miscarriage. This can lead to complications such as infection or hemorrhage. It is a concern in obstetrics, necessitating prompt medical attention to prevent serious health issues.
How Does TCM View Retained Fetal Tissue?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approaches retained fetal tissue as a symptom of disharmony within the body's energy systems. In TCM, it's believed that a harmonious flow of Qi (vital energy) and Blood is crucial for health. Retained fetal tissue may indicate a disruption in this flow, often associated with Qi Stagnation or blood stasis.
TCM practitioners aim to restore balance through various therapies, including acupuncture, herbal medicine, and dietary adjustments, tailored to address the underlying disharmony.
Acupoints for Retained Fetal Tissue
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, specific acupoints are integral for treating retained fetal tissue. Hegu LI-4, located between the first and second metacarpal bones, is known for expelling Exterior Wind and regulating defensive Qi. Lieque LU-7, positioned above the styloid process of the radius, aids in descending Lung Qi and expelling external wind.
Sanyinjiao SP-6, found above the medial malleolus, is celebrated for its ability to tonify the spleen and stomach, calm the mind, and regulate menstruation. Shuidao ST-28, located below the umbilicus, helps regulate body fluids and invigorate Qi and blood in the lower burner. These points collectively aim to harmonize the body's energy, addressing both physical and emotional aspects of retained fetal tissue.
Explore below some acupoints used to address retained fetal tissue, organized by meridian.
- By Meridian
- Large Intestine Channel
- Lung Channel
- Spleen Channel
- Stomach Channel
Hegu LI-4
Between the 1st and 2nd metacarpal bones, approximately in the middle of the 2nd metacarpal bone on the radial side.
Lieque LU-7
Above the styloid process of the radius, about 1.5 cun proximal to the wrist crease (wrist joint space) in a V-shaped depression.
Sanyinjiao SP-6
3 cun directly above the tip of the medial malleolus, on the posterior border of the tibia, on the line drawn from the medial malleolus to Yinlingquan SP-9.
