Bladder prolapse, also known as cystocele, occurs when the bladder slips into the vaginal canal due to weakened pelvic floor muscles. While the physical causes of prolapse are often linked to childbirth or excessive strain, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) reveals that Spleen Qi deficiency can contribute to the problem. However, healing from prolapse isn’t just about strengthening muscles; it involves a deeper, holistic approach that includes not only physical healing but also emotional and energetic restoration of the pelvic region.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the Spleen is responsible for producing Qi and blood, which nourish the muscles, tissues, and organs. When Spleen Qi becomes deficient, it cannot properly support the pelvic organs, leading to prolapse. However, prolapse is not always just a physical issue—it can also be linked to emotional and energetic imbalances. This is where Acupuncture comes in. Acupuncture can be used to tonify the Spleen, boost Qi, and improve circulation throughout the body, including the pelvic region. By restoring the flow of energy and supporting the organ systems, acupuncture can play a pivotal role in addressing prolapse and improving overall pelvic health.
After acupuncture, Holistic Pelvic Care can further support healing by addressing not only the physical aspects of pelvic health but also the emotional and energetic imbalances that may be contributing to prolapse. Developed by Tammy Kent, Holistic Pelvic Care is a practice that includes pelvic bodywork, breathwork, and energy healing techniques to release blockages and restore balance to the pelvic area. Often, pelvic issues like prolapse are not just caused by physical strain but also by emotional or energetic trauma stored in the pelvic region over time. Holistic Pelvic Care works to release these blockages, restore energy flow, and encourage healing on all levels—physical, emotional, and energetic.
In addition to Holistic Pelvic Care, nourishing the body with the right foods is essential for addressing Spleen Qi deficiency and supporting the pelvic organs. In TCM, the Spleen thrives on warm, moist, and easily digestible foods. Bone broths, particularly those made from chicken or beef bones, are excellent for nourishing the Spleen while supporting connective tissues. Root vegetables, whole grains, and leafy greens are also beneficial, as they help restore energy and strengthen the body. These foods not only support the Spleen but also encourage healing in the pelvic region by providing the nutrients needed to repair and strengthen tissues.
Herbal support plays a crucial role in strengthening the pelvic floor and supporting Spleen Qi. Western herbs such as Horsetail and Nettle are great for improving connective tissue health and promoting muscle tone. Red Clover is also beneficial, as it supports hormonal balance and is particularly helpful in the postpartum period when prolapse is more common. In addition, Chinese herbs such as Bai Zhu tonify Spleen Qi, improving digestion and lifting the pelvic organs. Dang Gui, known for nourishing the blood, also supports the reproductive organs, aiding in the recovery of prolapse. Another helpful herb, Du Zhong, tonifies both the Kidney and Spleen, strengthening ligaments and muscles to support the pelvic floor.
In addition to dietary and herbal support, pelvic floor exercises and proper posture are important for reducing strain on the pelvic floor. Kegel exercises, which involve contracting and releasing the pelvic muscles, can help tone the pelvic floor and improve organ support. Additionally, maintaining good posture helps redistribute weight more evenly and reduces pressure on the pelvic organs, supporting the Spleen and preventing prolapse.
A powerful self-care practice for toning the pelvic floor is the Jade Egg practice, an ancient Daoist technique that involves using a smooth jade egg to strengthen and tone the pelvic floor and vagina. This practice also improves circulation, enhances energetic flow, and reconnects women with their pelvic power, supporting both physical and energetic healing in cases of prolapse.
Several self-care therapies can complement these practices and support overall healing. Arvigo Technique of Mayan Abdominal Therapy is one such therapy. This gentle technique combines abdominal massage with specific maneuvers to realign internal organs, improve circulation, and release tension from the pelvic region. It also addresses the energetic imbalances that may contribute to prolapse by promoting the proper movement of organs and supporting the pelvic floor. Another valuable practice is the use of castor oil packs. Castor oil has long been known for its healing properties, and when applied to the lower abdomen, it helps reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and support tissue regeneration. Applying a warm castor oil pack to the pelvic area for 20-30 minutes a few times a week can help support the recovery process.
For additional pelvic health support, Yoni Steams (Pelvic Steams) are a traditional practice where women sit over a bowl of steaming herbs that are absorbed by the pelvic tissues. The heat and medicinal herbs help improve circulation, reduce inflammation, and support the rejuvenation of the pelvic organs. For women with prolapse, yoni steaming can promote pelvic vitality, encourage tissue regeneration, and support the lifting of the pelvic organs.
In addition to these self-care practices, professional therapies like Holistic Pelvic Care and Acupuncture can play a key role in addressing prolapse. Holistic Pelvic Care, through its pelvic bodywork and energy techniques, works to restore balance and release emotional and energetic blockages in the pelvic area. Acupuncture also plays an important role by tonifying Spleen Qi, improving energy flow, and supporting the body’s natural healing processes.
To support the body further, bone broth is an excellent food for nourishing the Spleen and strengthening the pelvic floor. Bone broth is rich in collagen and minerals that support tissue rebuilding and regeneration. Here’s a simple recipe for a nourishing bone broth:
Healing Bone Broth Recipe
Ingredients:
• 2-3 pounds beef or chicken bones (with marrow)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 2 onions, quartered
• 2-3 cloves garlic, smashed
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2-3 celery stalks, chopped
• Fresh herbs (such as rosemary or thyme)
• Salt to taste
• Water to cover
Instructions:
1. Place the bones in a large pot and cover with water. Add the apple cider vinegar and let it sit for 30 minutes.
2. Add the vegetables, garlic, and herbs. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
3. Simmer for 6-8 hours (or up to 24 hours) to extract nutrients. Add more water if needed.
4. Strain the broth and enjoy 1-2 cups per day.
Healing from bladder prolapse requires a comprehensive approach that goes beyond just strengthening muscles. By addressing Spleen Qi deficiency, nourishing the body with food and herbs, practicing pelvic floor exercises, and exploring the emotional and energetic layers through Acupuncture, Holistic Pelvic Care, self-care practices like the Arvigo Technique of Mayan Abdominal Therapy, Jade Egg practice, Yoni Steams, castor packs, and acupuncture, you can restore balance to your pelvic region and promote long-term healing.
If you’re looking for personalized guidance or would like to learn more about how to integrate these healing practices into your life, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m here to support you on your healing journey.
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