Can Ovarian Cysts Be Treated with Korean Medicine Instead of Surgery Clear Differences and Recovery
Did you feel your heart drop when you received a sudden diagnosis of an 'ovarian cyst'? Many people are diagnosed unexpectedly or after visiting the hospital for sudden pain. Naturally, you may wonder whether surgery or Korean medicine treatment will yield better results. ## Why Do Ovarian Cysts Occur? Ovarian cysts are benign tumors filled with various types of fluid. While functional cysts often disappear naturally, non-functional cysts can grow continuously and cause symptoms. In Korean medicine, ovarian cysts are viewed as the accumulation of 'wet phlegm' (습담) and 'stasis blood' (어혈) due to impaired circulation around the uterus and ovaries. This signals a breakdown in overall immunity, uterine circulation, and hormonal balance. ## Ovarian Surgery vs. Korean Medicine Treatment While surgery or oral contraceptives are commonly considered, surgery can impact normal ovarian tissue and reduce ovarian function or cause adhesions. Furthermore, recurrence rates of ovarian cysts after surgery range from 25% to 50%. Dalimchae's Korean medicine treatment aims to eliminate stasis and phlegm without surgery, improving circulation and promoting cyst resolution while preserving ovarian function. ## Clinical Evidence of Korean Medicine Treatment A 2025 clinical study in the Journal of Korean Medicine applied Boheo-tang-gagambang combination treatment to ovarian cyst patients, confirming complete resolution in follow-up ultrasound scans with no reported side effects. Another study in Explore (NY) demonstrated reduction in endometrioma size and normalization of CA 125 levels using modified herbal formulas. ## Constitutional Improvement for Lasting Recovery Dalimchae Korean Medicine Clinic addresses ovarian cysts not as an isolated local issue, but as a sign of overall bodily imbalance. Through personalized herbal medicine, acupuncture, moxibustion, and lifestyle guidance, we improve systemic circulation, eliminate phlegm and stasis, and restore hormonal balance so the body heals itself and prevents recurrence. Medical Review | Women & Pregnancy Division, Dalimchae Korean Medicine Clinic Incheon Branch, Korean Medicine Doctor Min Ji-hong