Bridging gaps in endometriosis care: a scoping review of complementary, alternative and/or integrative medicine for pain and quality of life.

Endometriosis is a painful condition affecting about 10% of women, causing severe menstrual cramps, pelvic pain, and fertility problems that significantly reduce quality of life. Standard medical treatments don't always adequately control the complex pain associated with this disease, leaving many women searching for additional options. Researchers conducted a comprehensive review of studies examining complementary and integrative medicine approaches for endometriosis pain and quality of life, searching medical databases from their beginning through April 2025. They analyzed 107 studies covering various therapies including acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, nutritional supplements, physical therapy, dietary changes, relaxation techniques, psychotherapy, and combined treatments. The strongest evidence came from acupuncture, Chinese and natural medicine, and nutritional supplements, with randomized controlled trials and research summaries showing significant improvements in both pain relief and quality of life. However, the studies varied considerably in how they were designed, how endometriosis was confirmed, what specific treatments were used, and how results were measured, making it difficult to directly compare findings or apply them broadly. The researchers concluded that complementary therapies show promise as additional treatments alongside conventional care for endometriosis. They recommend future research examine how these therapies work together with standard treatments, particularly for addressing pain, mental health issues, inflammation, and muscle dysfunction that commonly occur with endometriosis. If you're considering acupuncture or other complementary therapies for endometriosis, seek a qualified, licensed practitioner experienced in treating gynecological conditions.

This scoping review systematically searched PubMed and PsycINFO databases through April 2025, analyzing 107 studies examining complementary, alternative, and integrative medicine (CAIM) interventions for endometriosis-associated pain and quality of life. Following PRISMA-ScR guidelines with independent reviewer screening, the analysis encompassed acupuncture, Chinese and natural medicine, nutritional supplements, physical therapy, dietary interventions, relaxation techniques, psychotherapy, and combined therapies. Acupuncture, Chinese medicine, and nutritional supplements demonstrated the most robust evidence base, with randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses indicating statistically significant improvements in pain reduction and quality of life metrics. Significant methodological heterogeneity was noted across studies regarding diagnostic confirmation methods, intervention protocols, and outcome measures, limiting direct comparability and generalizability. Clinical takeaway: CAIM therapies show promise as adjunctive treatments for endometriosis management, with future research needed to evaluate synergistic effects when combined with conventional care, particularly addressing pain sensitization, mental health comorbidities, inflammation, and myofascial dysfunction.