Definition: Dampness is an imbalance where the uterus has excess mucus buildup. The excess mucus may just drain out as irregular discharge or it may buildup and get stuck in the ovaries, uterus or cervix. Indicators/Body Signs: -Irregular discharge (white, yellow, green, blood-tinted) -Sticky menses Health Topics/Concerns: -Infections -Irregular Discharge -Itchiness -Thick Uterine Lining -Cysts (PCOS, Ovarian Cyst, Vulvovaginal Cyst, Cervical Cyst, Paraurethral Cyst) -Fibroids -Group B Strep (pregnancy) Medical Diagnosis and Treatment: Irregular discharge itself is not considered abnormal in western medicine. Green discharge, however, is considered a sign of bacterial vaginosis and clumpy discharge is one of the signs of a yeast infection. Treatment consists of pharmaceuticals – antibacterial and antifungal medications or creams and possibly boric acid suppositories. Traditional Asian Medicine / Acupuncture: The concept of dampness comes from Traditional Asian Medicine. The body is seen as having an internal climate. When out of balance, the body may be overly hot or overly cold for example. In the case of dampness, the body is considered to be overly damp. Imagine a plant that has been over-watered and is droopy. Associated Risks: Dampness causes the processes of the body to move slower than they should and can result in accumulations in the form of cysts, bumps, fibroids and so on. When someone also has excess heat, dampness makes the body a breeding ground for bacteria, yeast and viruses. Imagine a tropical climate where it’s hot and humid. This type of climate has lots of critters. Steam Therapy: STEAM RESPONSIVENESS Very Effective. Dampness appears to be very responsive to steam therapy. Steam alone might be capable of naturally resolving the imbalance entirely. HOW DOES IT WORK? Pelvic steam appears to drain out irregular vaginal discharge in the same way a face steam drains out nasal passages. Because irregular discharge houses harmful bacteria, yeast and viruses, clearing it out appears to be helpful not just resolving infections, but also preventing them from re-occurrence. Vaginal microbiome researchers have also suggested that it’s possible that the temporary rise in temperature with steaming may help to kill viruses in the same way the bodies natural defense mechanism of a fever does this. WHAT TO EXPECT While steaming, it is common to see discharge clear out afterwards. STEAM THERAPIST RECOMMENDATION Yes. It is important to do an initial consultation and steam plan with a Peristeam Hydrotherapist if wanting dampness to fully resolve. It is recommended to have an initial consultation plus two follow up consultations. The follow up consultations should take place after each following period. During the follow-up consultation the steam therapist will be able to read the menstrual cycle to determine if there is any leftover dampness and/or other imbalances and how to modify the steam plan and herbs accordingly. With dampness it is very common that the steam plan and herbs will change after the post-steam period. DEDICATION TIME One to three months with the guidance of a Peristeam Hydrotherapist. Weekly steam maintenance after dampness resolves.