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Do you have a Damp Uterus? And is it causing Fertility Problems?

Updated: Feb 4

Today we are going to look at one of the most common diagnoses in Chinese Medicine Fertility Acupuncture: ‘Damp’.  Here at my clinic in Wolverhampton, this is a problem that I often help my clients with. 

In Chinese medicine, internal damp is rather similar to environmental damp; when water doesn’t flow freely, it becomes stagnant and unhealthy. Imagine a stagnant pond which you wouldn’t want to bathe in!


If the fluids don’t flow freely in the body, they accumulate and create damp accumulation. Damp is created in the spleen. One of the functions of the spleen in Chinese medicine is to encourage the flow of fluids throughout the body. If the spleen Qi (energy) is weak, then it can’t complete its role effectively and fluids slow down their movement.


The Damp can then accumulate in any area of the body. If it accumulates in the sacral chakra, which includes the fertility organs, it can cause fertility issues with ovulation and implantation.


How Does this Manifest in your Cycle?


1.      Blocked Fallopian Tubes


Damp can manifest as toxic fluid and this can block the fallopian tubes. This can be diagnosed by a Hycosy, where water or dye is flushed through the tubes to check if they are clear.


2.      PCOS


When damp accumulates in the ovaries and follicles, it causes multiple cyst formation and interferes with the production of hormones such as LH and FSH. This can cause anovulation or oligo-ovulation, long follicle phase and irregular cycles.


3.      Implantation Issues – Cysts, Polyps


In addition to cysts on the ovaries, cysts and polyps can appear in the uterus, and depending on the size, can prevent embryo implantation. If these are fluid filled, they can be caused by the accumulation of damp.


4.      Weight Gain


Damp also manifests as fatty deposits. If you suffer from spleen Qi deficiency and damp, you may carry excess weight and find it difficult to lose weight.


5.      The Coating of the Tongue


One of the properties of damp is that it is thick and sticky. This causes a white, thick, sticky coating on the tongue. 


6.      Nasal Congestion


When the fluid accumulates and causes damp in the lungs, it becomes phlegm. If you hold more damp/phlegm in the upper body, you may have nasal congestion and frequent colds.


7.      Heavy Legs or Muscles


Damp is heavy in nature and when it accumulates in the lower body and muscles, you may feel fatigued with heavy legs.


8.      Ovulation Cramps


Although ovulation cramps are common, they are not to be expected in a healthy cycle and they are indicative of damp in the uterus.

9.      Vaginal Discharge


If damp is held in the lower body, you may experience increased vaginal discharge which would be white, thick and sticky, rather than the clear, stretchy cervical mucus that is normal at ovulation time.  


Damp is a common diagnosis in fertility acupuncture in the West, and especially in England due to the wet and cold environment.  


My treatments in Wolverhampton include those to ‘clear the damp and phlegm’ which involve the use of acupuncture. Since I’m an expert in fertility, I can also offer lifestyle advice. Here’s some more information to get you started:


 How Can I Clear Damp?


1.      Acupuncture


As a specialist in acupuncture for fertility, I regularly help clients with this issue. There are specific acupuncture points which focus on supporting the Spleen Qi and clearing the Damp. There are also specific points to clear Damp from the fallopian tubes, and the fertility organs. 


I can deliver acupuncture at my clinic in Wolverhampton to clear Damp at any point of your menstrual cycle. My natural treatments are a great way to boost your fertility. 


2.      Exercise


All exercise moves the Qi which also helps to flow the fluids and clear Damp. Cardio exercise such as running, cycling, swimming, and HIIT is the most effective.

3.      Avoid Damp Environments


Avoid excessive swimming, or camping on damp floors and always dry your hair and your feet after being in the rain or washing your hair.


4.      Diet for Damp


To clear damp, include more radishes in your diet and avoid dairy, peanuts and bananas, all which cause damp to accumulate in the spleen. Also include warm foods and drinks in your diet, avoiding fridge cold foods and drinks, especially in the winter.


5.      Keep Your Uterus and Feet Warm


Use a hot water bottle on your uterus and wear socks and slippers, along with avoiding cold floors.


Chinese Herbs 


You’re welcome to ask me as an Acupuncturist about the use of an individualised prescription for your Spleen Qi deficiency and damp diagnosis.


For more information on my treatments in Wolverhampton, simply contact me today.


 
 
 

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