I recently had the opportunity to speak with CBC about endometriosis, something that’s both deeply personal to me and a big part of the work I do in my clinic. We talked about what endometriosis really is, why it can take so long to get diagnosed, and how options like acupuncture for endometriosis can help support people dealing with ongoing pain.

This blog is a recap of that conversation and goes a little deeper into some of the topics we touched on during the interview. If you’d prefer to hear the full discussion in your own time, you can listen to the complete CBC interview on acupuncture for endometriosis and pain management here.

According to the Endometriosis Network Canada, this often painful condition affects at least one in ten girls and women, along with many two-spirit, transgender, and gender-diverse individuals. March is Endometriosis Awareness Month, making it an important time to draw more attention to what people are experiencing and to the support available.

If you’ve been experiencing painful periods or suspect something more may be going on, there are supportive options available. You can book a free consultation with our Edmonton clinic, contact us with any questions, or read our patient reviews to learn more about our approach.

What Is Endometriosis?

Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus. These growths (called lesions) can cause bleeding, inflammation, and pain, both during your cycle and sometimes outside it.

While research is still ongoing, there isn’t one clear cause. Some cases may be hereditary, but overall, there’s still a lot we’re learning about this condition.

Why Awareness Matters

Endometriosis awareness is deeply personal for many people, including myself.

I experienced painful periods starting at age 12, and that continued for years. Eventually, after many treatments and surgeries, I had a hysterectomy as part of my journey with endometriosis.

This is why awareness is so important.

Many people are told their pain is “normal”, but with endometriosis, pain can go far beyond what should be expected. Understanding this difference helps people seek support sooner and explore options like acupuncture for endometriosis to help manage symptoms and improve daily life.

Want to better understand endometriosis and how to support your body? Read our blog on Endometriosis Awareness Month.

My Journey to Using Acupuncture for Endometriosis

I was first introduced to acupuncture in my late teens and early 20s, after trying multiple treatments.

At one point, I was advised to have a hysterectomy at just 18 years old. Instead, I explored other options first, and acupuncture became one of the most effective tools for managing my pain.

That experience shaped my entire career.

Today, I’ve been practicing acupuncture in Edmonton for over 14 years and have spent the last decade running my clinic.  A large part of my practice focuses on helping people with endometriosis, fertility challenges, and cycle-related pain.

Curious about the research behind acupuncture for endometriosis? Read the full study here.

How Acupuncture for Endometriosis Works

So how does acupuncture for endometriosis actually help?

From a clinical perspective, acupuncture can improve blood flow to the pelvic area, support immune system regulation, and reduce inflammatory signaling in the body.

At my clinic, we also use pelvic floor acupuncture. When you’re in pain, the pelvic floor muscles often tighten as a protective response. Over time, that tension can worsen symptoms.

By helping those muscles release, we can create more space in the pelvis, reduce pressure on nerves, and decrease pain caused by tightness or adhesions.

Endometriosis and Fertility

Endometriosis can also impact fertility, depending on where the lesions are located.

For example, lesions on the ovaries may affect egg quality, while inflammation in the uterus can interfere with implantation. It may also contribute to challenges during IVF or natural conception.

This is another area where acupuncture for endometriosis is often used alongside medical care to support the body and improve outcomes.

If you’re exploring acupuncture for endometriosis and fertility, this blog walks you through what to expect and how it can help. Read it here.

Why Diagnosis Can Take So Long

One of the biggest challenges with endometriosis is getting a diagnosis.

Many people are told their symptoms are “just normal period pain.” Others are told they’re too young to have endometriosis. It’s also commonly misdiagnosed as digestive issues like IBS.

In the past, it often took 8 to 10 years to receive a diagnosis. While awareness is improving in that timeline, there’s still a long way to go.

Common Misconceptions About Endometriosis

Endometriosis is often described as “just a bad period,” but it’s much more complex than that.

Because the tissue can grow outside the uterus, it can affect different areas of the body, including the bowel, where it may contribute to constipation, and even areas like the diaphragm. In rare cases, it has been found in more distant areas of the body.

This makes endometriosis a full-body inflammatory condition, not just a reproductive issue.

See how a collaborative approach can improve your treatment experience—read our blog to learn more.

Exploring Acupuncture for Endometriosis Relief

Living with endometriosis can feel overwhelming, especially when pain becomes part of your daily life. The good news is that you don’t have to rely on just one approach.

Many people find that combining medical care with supportive therapies like acupuncture for endometriosis helps them better manage symptoms and feel more in control of their health.

Curious if acupuncture for endometriosis could support you? We’re here to walk you through what to expect. Book a free consultation with our Edmonton acupuncture clinic and take the next step toward feeling better in your body.

Disclaimer: This blog is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Acupuncture for endometriosis is a supportive therapy that may help reduce pain, improve blood flow, and support overall well-being. At Monica Patt Acupuncture, we take a whole-body approach and often work alongside your doctor and healthcare team.