6 years ago in Türkiye, Sevgi* and her husband dreamed of having a baby, but life took an unexpected turn when she was diagnosed with ovarian insufficiency.
Still, Sevgi didn't lose hope. While seeking support from her gynaecologist and preparing for fertility treatment, in autumn of 2017 Sevgi decided to also explore traditional medicine therapies to increase her chances of becoming a mother.
Traditional medicine is widely used globally to enhance health and treat conditions, particularly chronic diseases. The term encompasses a range of practices, such as herbal remedies, acupuncture, cupping therapy and homoeopathy.
Robust scientific evidence for the effectiveness of traditional medicine has generally been very limited. Although many people find specific therapies helpful, in many cases this tends to be based on traditional use rather than exhaustive scientific research. However, the integration of traditional and modern medicine is increasingly the subject of scientific research on a number of fronts.
"In about 3 months, I saw great results. My hormones were balanced, I was full of energy and started feeling more optimistic," shares Sevgi.
However, fate had another challenge in store for her as the COVID-19 pandemic struck, and she tragically lost her mother, with the cumulative pressures putting her dream of having a baby on hold.
In May 2023, with the pandemic behind her and newly retired, she decided to give her dream another chance. Upon the recommendation of her friends, she made an appointment to see Dr Kanat Tayfun at the University of Health Sciences, Bagcilar Training and Research Hospital in Istanbul, whose practice seeks to integrate traditional and modern medicine.
Her experience
"When I stepped in, the atmosphere was very calming and peaceful and relaxing music was on," Sevgi recalls.
She was first visited by nurses who checked her blood pressure, pulse and other vital signs. She explains how Dr Tayfun took a personalized approach, delving into her medical history and fertility challenges to design a customized treatment programme for her.
"I’ve had 5 acupuncture sessions so far. I immediately began seeing the results. My work schedule was very hectic, so I wasn't eating properly and timely. After these sessions, I have lost weight, I am feeling more energetic and feeling more activity in my ovaries," says Sevgi.
After 2 more acupuncture sessions, Sevgi is set to begin cupping therapy, a suction method involving the placement of a vacuumized cup or jar onto the body surface.
Sevgi firmly believes in the synergy between traditional and modern medicine, recognizing the value of both. She is determined to facilitate coordination between her traditional medicine practitioner and her gynaecologist, appreciating the benefits they offer together.
"I think traditional medicine and modern medicine complement each other. I cannot prefer one over the other. Patients have the opportunity to benefit from all treatments."
A holistic approach
With hope in her voice, Sevgi highlights the positive impact of this integrative, complementary approach on her mental well-being. The therapy not only aided her body but also lifted her spirits after the challenges of the pandemic.
"I think my serotonin levels increased after acupuncture. After the pandemic, many of us were depressed. The therapy also helped me in that respect, psychologically," adds Sevgi.
She highlights that she found solace in complementary medicine.
"What I like about traditional, complementary medicine is that one’s mind, body and soul are taken into consideration at the same time. It's a holistic approach."
For Sevgi, traditional medicine holds immense value in dealing with stress-related diseases, psychological conditions and chronic illnesses. She believes that these techniques can fill in the gaps that mainstream medicine may sometimes leave behind.
"When it comes to stress-related diseases, psychological conditions, or chronic illnesses, modern medicine isn't always the only solution. You need other tools, other techniques. So, it's nice to have these techniques and benefit from them,” she says.
Sevgi emphasizes that, 10 years ago, the community generally wasn't very aware of these techniques. Now, with over 70 traditional and complementary medicine practice centres affiliated with the Ministry of Health of Türkiye, these therapies have become more accessible across the country, even to those with limited financial means.
"It's very affordable. One session costs less than US$10, so even low-income groups can access these therapies."
As Sevgi continues her journey, she hopes to inspire others to consider the impact of traditional, complementary and integrative medicine in their own lives. She feels her story can serve as a beacon of hope for those seeking additional ways to heal and find balance.
The First WHO Traditional Medicine Global Summit takes place on 17–18 August 2023 in Gandhinagar, India, to mobilize political commitment and evidence-based action on traditional medicine. Co-hosted by WHO and the Government of India, it will bring together stakeholders, such as practitioners, policy-makers, academics and organizations, to exchange best practices and evidence on traditional medicine's role in health and sustainable development, underscoring the need for scientific evidence to demonstrate genuine impact.
*The patient’s name has been changed at her request to ensure privacy/confidentiality.