Systematic review and meta-analysis of complementary treatments for women with symptomatic endometriosis

Mira, T.A., Buen, M.M., Borges, M.G., Yela, D.A. and Benetti-Pinto, C.L. · International Journal of Gynecology & Obstetrics · 2018 June 26

DOI 10.1002/ijgo.12576

Objective

To identify resources, methods, and/or complementary treatments to alleviate the pain symptoms of endometriosis, and to identify adverse effects of treatments.

Conclusions

Numerous complementary treatments have been used to alleviate the symptoms of endometriosis, but only acupuncture has demonstrated a significant improvement in outcomes. Nevertheless, other approaches demonstrated positive trends toward improving symptoms; this should encourage investigators to design controlled studies to support their applicability.

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Insights

Acupuncture showed a significant benefit in pain reduction for women with endometriosis as compared with placebo.

The complementary interventions studied were acupuncture, exercise, electrotherapy, and yoga. All were inconclusive in affirming benefit, but demonstrated a positive trend in the treatment of symptoms of endometriosis. Meta-analysis of acupuncture showed a significant benefit in pain reduction as compared with placebo. Numerous complementary treatments have been used to alleviate the symptoms of endometriosis, but only acupuncture has demonstrated a significant improvement in outcomes.