THE COMPLEXITIES OF ENDOMETRIOSIS: TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE AND WESTERN APPROACHES

Endometriosis (EMs) is a complex gynecological condition characterized by the presence of endometrial tissue outside the uterine cavity. This disorder is associated with various distressing symptoms, including chronic pelvic pain, dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia, and infertility. Despite extensive research, the precise etiology of EMs remains elusive. Clinical manifestations categorize EMs into subtypes like "dysmenorrhea," "menorrhagia," "dysentery," and "infertility," shedding light on diverse presentations.Stasis of blood plays a pivotal role in EMs pathogenesis, impeding the normal flow of menstruation and obstructing key meridians, such as the uterus, Chong meridian, and Ren meridian. The incidence of EMs is on the rise, severely impacting women's quality of life. Recent advances in both traditional Chinese and Western medicine have offered promising treatment modalities, providing substantial relief to patients.This review compiles contemporary literature to provide an overview of the evolving understanding and therapeutic progress in EMs, offering valuable insights into the management of this challenging condition.