What dosages of acupuncture do UK-based acupuncturists use to treat endometriosis-related symptoms? A mixed methods practitioner survey

By Laurie Heaps - MSc in Acupuncture

Abstract

Background

Endometriosis is a chronic condition with no cure which affects an estimated 10% of the world’s population born with a uterus. A wide range of symptoms may be experienced and pelvic pain is common. Healthcare professionals regard endometriosis treatment strategies as complex and advocate a multi-disciplinary treatment approach which can include acupuncture.

Aim and objectives

This study explored what dosages of acupuncture (AD) UK-based acupuncturists use to treat endometriosis-related symptoms. Models of ADs in research were investigated and compared to study findings; acupuncturists’ perception of the importance of individual AD components were investigated; reasons for component choices explored; recommendations for future research offered.

Methodology

Cross sectional, sequential explanatory mixed methods survey methodology collected data from two tiers. Tier 1 (T1) online questionnaire gathered mostly quantitative data from 47 respondents. Tier 2 (T2) semi-structured interviews with a subset of 7 self-identified endometriosis experts collected qualitative data and explored T1 significant findings, identified barriers to component use, offered alternative uses. Extant literature for both AD and endometriosis studies was juxtaposed with anticipated and emergent themes from this study’s findings.

Findings

A range of 82 acupuncture points are ‘frequently / always’ used by T1 respondents, of which Sp 6, Liv 3, Sp 10, Ren 4, Ren 6, St 36 are most prevalent. Most T1 respondents treat endometriosis patients for 6 months and initially once a week. T2 themes included the problem of under-treatment and that being an acupuncturist revealed nuances in use of AD components. The research findings are contextualised with reference to extant literature for both AD and endometriosis studies.

Conclusion

T1 respondents use a wide range of ADs to treat endometriosis-related symptoms. Explanatory models used to interpret diagnostic information and style of acupuncture practised influences AD. Both the acupuncturist and patient shape the AD.