Dr Li Rui Discusses TCM Treatment and Prevention Methods for Uterine Fibroids
Reader's Inquiry
Ms. Lim (43 years old) writes:
"During a recent physical examination, the doctor told me that I have fibroids in my uterus. I am very worried. How does Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) treat uterine fibroids?"
Expert Answer by Dr Li Rui
Dr Li Rui points out that uterine fibroids are one of the most common benign tumors in the female reproductive system, particularly prevalent among women aged 30 to 50. They are a common women's health issue in Singapore, and the chance of malignancy is very low. The occurrence of uterine fibroids is closely related to excessive estrogen secretion and long-term stimulation (such as multiple induced abortions). Most can be detected early through regular screenings.
Common Symptoms of Uterine Fibroids
1. Changes in Menstruation: Significantly increased menstrual flow, prolonged periods, or shortened cycles.
2. Pressure Symptoms: Fibroids pressing on the bladder can lead to frequent or urgent urination; pressure on the rectum may cause difficulty in bowel movements.
3. Pain: Some patients experience a sinking sensation or pain in the lower abdomen, which may worsen during menstruation.
4. Infertility: Fibroids may obstruct the implantation of a fertilized egg or affect the movement of sperm, leading to infertility.
5. Abdominal Changes: The abdomen may gradually become distended and asymmetrical, often more noticeable upon waking in the morning.
TCM Understanding and Treatment Principles for Uterine Fibroids
In TCM theory, uterine fibroids fall under the category of "Zheng Jia" (abdominal masses). Treatment must comprehensively consider the patient's age, fertility needs, size of the fibroids, and symptoms to formulate a personalized plan.
• Syndrome Differentiation: Patients with heavy bleeding during menstruation should avoid blood-activating herbs; during non-menstrual periods, appropriate formulas for activating blood circulation, resolving stasis, and eliminating tumors can be used.
• Menopausal Regulation: For patients approaching menopause, herbs that help eliminate tumors and facilitate the cessation of menstruation can be added.
• Treatment Principles: Eliminate tumors without neglecting to stop bleeding; stop bleeding without neglecting to eliminate tumors; and simultaneously regulate ovarian function. Avoid overly aggressive medication to prevent damaging the body's vital energy (Yuan Qi).
• Preventing Recurrence: Uterine fibroids tend to recur after surgery. Seeking TCM herbal regulation after surgery is crucial to prevent recurrence!
Overall, TCM treatment utilizes acupuncture and herbal medicine, focusing on activating blood circulation to resolve stasis, transforming phlegm and dispelling dampness, and softening hardness to dissipate tumors. This is supported by regulating Qi to move stagnation and strengthening the body's resistance, achieving the goals of stopping bleeding, eliminating tumors, and restoring vital energy.
Dietary Recipes Recommended by Dr Li Rui
1. Er Xian Soup (Two-Fresh Soup)
• Ingredients: 120g fresh lotus root (sliced), 120g fresh Imperata root (Mao Gen, chopped).
• Method: Add water and boil; drink as tea.
• Efficacy: Nourishes Yin, cools the blood, removes stasis, and stops bleeding.
• Suitable for: Heavy menstrual flow and "Blood-Heat with Stasis" patterns.
2. Rose and Jasmine Tea
• Ingredients: 9g Green Tea, 5g Rosebuds, 5g Jasmine flowers.
• Method: Steep in hot water and drink.
• Efficacy: Regulates Qi, activates blood circulation, and regulates menstruation.
3. Donkey-Hide Gelatin and Panax Notoginseng Porridge (Ejiao Tianqi Zhou)
• Ingredients: 20g Donkey-hide gelatin (Ejiao), 3g Panax notoginseng powder (Tianqi), 2g Cinnamon, 6g Cumin (Xiao Huixiang), 100g White rice.
• Method: Boil the herbs in water, then add rice to cook into a porridge.
• Efficacy: Warms the meridians and dispels cold, nourishes blood and eliminates tumors, and helps prevent uterine fibroids.
