Dr. Mallory Stuparich
Dr. Mallory Stuparich
Dr Mallory Stuparich – Endometriosis Specialist
Summary: Dr Mallory Stuparich is a leading endometriosis specialist based in Los Alamitos, California, USA. Her care philosophy is grounded in multiple scientific theories, including neuroimmunological origins, coelomic metaplasia, hematogenous and lymphatic spread, and genetic predisposition. While retrograde menstruation may play a role, Dr Mallory Stuparich emphasizes that the theory of retrograde menstruation clearly has limitations, and Dr Mallory Stuparich emphasizes that it does not fully explain cases in premenarchal girls, cisgender men, or post-hysterectomy patients.
Dr Mallory Stuparich performs excision surgery, the gold standard for removing endometriosis lesions. She provides honest, thorough discussions about treatment options, especially the limitations of hormone therapy and medications like birth control and GnRH agonists/antagonists. These therapies are palliative and symptom-focused, not curative, and often come with side effects that limit long-term use.
Post-surgery, Dr Mallory Stuparich discusses hormone therapy in three key scenarios: reducing the recurrence of endometriomas, managing symptoms from coexisting adenomyosis, or supporting patients seeking additional suppression of residual disease. Each treatment plan is customized based on patient needs and goals.
Dr Stuparich also prioritizes comprehensive pain management using a multimodal, non-opioid-first approach. She utilizes NSAIDs, acetaminophen, gabapentin, SNRIs, muscle relaxants, and suzetrigine, prescribing opioids only for short-term postoperative relief.
Persistent pain is addressed proactively. Starting at the first consultation, Dr Mallory Stuparich evaluates all pain sources, not just endometriosis. She creates individualized plans and revisits them if symptoms persist beyond six months post-surgery, coordinating care with other specialists when needed.
Trained at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dr Mallory Stuparich offers compassionate, evidence-based endometriosis care, helping patients regain control over their health and quality of life.
What type of surgery do you perform for endometriosis: Excision
Medication: Medications for endometriosis (e.g., hormone therapy like birth control as well as GnRH agonists/antagonists) are palliative, meaning that they are aimed at symptom management. There is no guarantee that medications will directly affect the disease itself. It is crucial to discuss this very significant limitation in a fully informed consent discussion with each patient. Additionally, for GnRH agonists and antagonists, their side effect profile and regulatory guidelines associated with the medications preclude their use for extended periods of time, so in many cases, risks quickly outweigh benefits for the patients. Postoperatively, I discuss the role of hormone therapy in three circumstances:
1. Patients who had endometriomas may benefit from ovulation suppression through the use of hormone therapy in an effort to reduce the formation of future endometriomas
2. Patients who still have a uterus affected by adenomyosis may experience symptomatic improvement
3. Patients who have undergone excision, understanding that no surgeon can guarantee a complete excision, want to exhaust every resource in potentially suppressing any remaining endometriosis. The decision to use hormone therapy postoperatively is always an individual decision, and I assist in guiding my patients to the best decision for them.
Pain management, and especially pain management after surgery, is critical. I prioritize the use of non-opioid pain medications and approach pain management in a multi-modal fashion. Medications that I have used for pain management for patients include, but are not limited to, NSAIDs, acetaminophen, gabapentin, SNRIs, muscle relaxants, and Journavx (suzetrigine, a sodium channel blocker). I prescribe opioids for postoperative pain management. I do not prescribe long-term opioids in my practice.
Approach to Persistent Pain After Surgery: My approach starts at the initial consultation, where I take a detailed history and physical examination, perform the in-office ultrasound, and provide the patient with a comprehensive assessment of all of their pain generators (not just endometriosis). The patient and I decide on a plan for each pain generator, which the patient mainly executes, and I am available to provide any assistance or support that is within my scope. This anticipatory approach drastically reduces the occurrence of persistent symptoms in many cases. If a patient has persistent symptoms, then usually these symptoms are still present at 6 months after surgery, which tends to be the earliest point at which patients will know what their new “normal” is postoperatively. If this is the case, then I will revisit the specific issues and concerns they have, as well as investigate how well the initial plan we put in place was executed. This is also a time to gather a symptom inventory from the patient and determine if additional specialists need to be involved in the patient’s care for a work-up of a specific symptom or set of symptoms.
Shohre Mehvar, OMD, LAC
Shohre Mehvar, OMD, LAC
Shohre Mehvar—Endometriosis Acupuncturist
Summary: Shohre Mehvar, OMD, LAC, is a compassionate endometriosis acupuncturist based in Newport Beach, California, offering integrative, whole-person care at Newport Wellness Group. Shohre Mehvar blends traditional Chinese Medicine with modern functional nutrition and mind-body therapies to support patients navigating the physical, emotional, and metabolic challenges of endometriosis. Her philosophy is rooted in the belief that each person’s path to healing is unique, and she tailors every treatment plan to meet the individual’s specific needs. By fostering the body’s innate ability to heal, Shohre Mehvar addresses both symptoms and root causes—helping patients manage pain, regulate hormones, and restore balance in body and mind. Her warm, patient-focused approach empowers individuals with endometriosis to take an active role in their wellness journey.
City: Newport Beach, California, USA
Visit types: Virtual and In-person
Spoken languages: English
Interpreting services for other languages: No
Dr. Reza Askari
Dr. Reza Askari, Endometriosis Specialist
City: Los Angeles, California, USA
Philosophy of Endometriosis Care: Current scientific evidence most strongly supports the coelomic metaplasia theory as the primary explanation for the development of endometriosis.
Our knowledge of endometriosis is growing every day, and I believe epigenetics and immune system factors will become key areas of focus moving forward.
What type of surgery do you perform for endometriosis: Excision
Medication: Effective care for endometriosis requires a comprehensive view of each patient’s health, recognizing that other conditions may contribute to symptoms. While there is no medical therapy that cures endometriosis, complete surgical excision remains the foundation of treatment. After surgery, when necessary, I often recommend hormonal therapy—typically progestins, either orally or through an intrauterine device (IUD)—to help manage bleeding or adenomyosis-related symptoms when present. I generally avoid GnRH agonists and antagonists, as their risk profiles and clinical outcomes do not, in my experience, offer meaningful advantages over progestin-based
Approach to Persistent Pain After Surgery: My goal is always to walk alongside patients through their recovery, not just for the surgery itself, but until they truly feel better
I believe that recovery does not end in the operating room. I stay closely involved with every patient’s care, providing follow-up and support for as long as needed to help them achieve meaningful, lasting improvement.
Every patient leaves surgery with a personalized recovery plan, shaped by their history, examination, and lab findings, with particular attention to any additional pain contributors. I routinely recommend pelvic physical therapy and collaborate with a trusted network of physiatrists to ensure each patient receives truly comprehensive care throughout their healing journey.
Shabnam Pourhassani, DACM, LAc, QME, FABORM
Shabnam Pourhassani, DACM, LAc, QME, FABORM
Shabnam Pourhassani—Endometriosis Acupuncturist
Summary: Shabnam Pourhassani, DACM, LAc, QME, FABORM, is a skilled endometriosis acupuncturist offering care at Newport Wellness Group in Newport Beach, California. Shabnam Pourhassani takes a patient-centered, flexible approach, offering two evaluation pathways: one focused on symptom management for endometriosis and another that includes a comprehensive review of health, lifestyle, and other contributing factors within her scope of practice. With extensive training in integrative medicine, she tailors each treatment to the unique needs of the individual, aiming to relieve pain and improve quality of life through personalized acupuncture and wellness strategies. She empowers her patients by creating thoughtful, compassionate care plans that address both immediate symptoms and underlying imbalances, helping them feel more supported and in control of their healing journey.
City: Newport Beach, California, USA
Visit types: Virtual and in-person
Spoken languages: English
Interpreting services for other languages: No
Stephanie Martin, LAC, DAIM, FABORM
Stephanie Martin, LAC, DAIM, FABORM
Stephanie Martin—Endometriosis Acupuncturist
Summary: Stephanie Martin, LAC, DAIM, FABORM, is a dedicated endometriosis acupuncturist based in San Diego, California. At San Diego Herbal Medicine and Acupuncture, she offers personalized care using an integrative, whole-body approach that combines acupuncture, nutrition, targeted supplements, and functional lab testing. Her treatment philosophy focuses on managing endometriosis-related pain while addressing deeper issues such as gut health, estrogen metabolism, immune function, and chronic stress. Stephanie Martin is passionate about helping patients regain balance and improve their overall well-being by creating customized care plans that target both symptoms and root causes. Her supportive and holistic methods are designed to empower patients through education and long-term healing strategies, helping them find lasting relief and a better quality of life.
City: San Diego, California, USA
Visit types: Virtual and In-person
Spoken languages: English
Interpreting services for other languages: No
Robin Sheared, LAc, FABORM, MS
Robin Sheared, LAc, FABORM, MS
Robin Sheared—Endometriosis Acupuncturist
Summary: Robin Sheared, LAc, FABORM, MS, is a compassionate endometriosis acupuncturist based in San Francisco, California. At Blue Ova Health, Robin Sheared offers personalized acupuncture care tailored to each individual’s symptoms and reproductive health goals. Her approach is rooted in understanding your unique experience with endometriosis and designing a customized treatment plan that helps reduce pain and support fertility. With a strong focus on collaborative care, Robin Sheared works closely with patients to move beyond chronic discomfort and toward long-term wellness. Whether you’re managing endometriosis symptoms or hoping to optimize fertility, her treatments aim to restore balance and empower your healing journey. Patients appreciate her thoughtful, individualized care and commitment to improving quality of life through integrative, evidence-informed therapies.
City: San Francisco, California, USA
Visit types: In person and virtual
Spoken languages: English
Interpreting services for other languages: No
Rachel Hemphill, DACM, L.Ac., FABORM
Rachel Hemphill, DACM, L.Ac., FABORM
Rachel Hemphill—Endometriosis Acupuncturist
Summary: Rachel Hemphill, DACM, L.Ac., FABORM, is a dedicated endometriosis acupuncturist based in Oakland, California. At City Pulse Acupuncture, She provides personalized care using Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) to support patients living with endometriosis. Her treatment philosophy is rooted in the understanding that every person’s experience with this condition is different. By carefully identifying individual patterns and symptoms, Rachel Hemphill crafts holistic treatment plans that address the root causes of pain and imbalance. Through acupuncture and herbal therapies, she aims to reduce inflammation, regulate hormonal function, and support overall well-being. Her warm and thoughtful approach helps patients feel heard, empowered, and actively involved in their care journey. Rachel Hemphill is committed to helping people manage endometriosis with compassion and evidence-informed care that promotes healing from the inside out.
City: Oakland, California, USA
Visit types: In person
Spoken languages: English
Interpreting services for other languages: No
Erin Sandoval, LAC, DACM, MS, FABORM
Erin Sadoval, LAC, DACM, MS, FABORM
Erin Sadoval—Endometriosis Acupuncturist
Summary: Erin Sandoval, LAC, DACM, MS, FABORM, is a dedicated endometriosis acupuncturist based in San Diego, California, offering integrative care at Natural Harmony Reproductive Health. Erin Sandoval understands that endometriosis is a complex condition affecting multiple body systems, including the immune, circulatory, musculoskeletal, and nervous systems. Her approach focuses on holistic healing to support long-lasting vitality and symptom relief. By combining acupuncture with personalized treatment plans, Erin Sandoval helps patients manage pain, reduce inflammation, and improve overall well-being. She emphasizes a patient-centered philosophy that addresses the whole body and mind, ensuring care is tailored to each individual’s unique experience with endometriosis. Patients value Erin Sandoval’s compassionate, professional care aimed at improving quality of life through natural and integrative therapies.
City: San Diego, California, USA
Visit types: Virtual and in-person
Spoken languages: English
Interpreting services for other languages: No
Susan Fox, DACM, LAc, FABORM
Susan Fox, DACM, LAc, FABORM
Susan Fox—Endometriosis Acupuncturist
Summary: Susan Fox, DACM, LAc, FABORM, is a skilled endometriosis acupuncturist based in Mill Valley, California. Susan Fox offers a comprehensive approach to managing endometriosis by combining acupuncture with innovative therapies like low-level light therapy, infrared treatment, and transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation (TEAS). Her personalized care also includes herbal remedies, supplements, and tailored dietary and lifestyle changes designed to reduce inflammation and support overall wellness. Susan Fox’s approach aims to relieve endometriosis-related pain effectively, often reducing the reliance on over-the-counter or prescription pain medications. Patients appreciate her warm, patient-centered philosophy that addresses the complex inflammatory and autoimmune aspects of endometriosis, providing holistic support for long-term comfort and improved quality of life.
City: Mill Valley, California, USA
Visit types: Virtual and in person
Spoken languages: English
Interpreting services for other languages: No
Dr. Benita Safaryans, FABORM, DAOM, LAC
Dr. Benita Safaryans, FABORM, DAOM, LAC
Dr. Benita Safaryans—Endometriosis Acupuncturist
Summary: Dr. Benita Safaryans, FABORM, DAOM, LAC, is an experienced endometriosis acupuncturist at Peak Life Acupuncture in Glendale, California. Benita Safaryans takes a holistic approach to treating endometriosis pain by focusing on restoring balance and addressing the root causes. Through acupuncture, she works to regulate the flow of qi and blood, reduce inflammation, and relieve pelvic discomfort. Benita Safaryans also emphasizes the importance of diet, guiding patients to eliminate common inflammatory triggers like processed foods and sugars while encouraging an anti-inflammatory, nutrient-rich diet that supports hormonal health. Her combined use of acupuncture, herbal medicine, and dietary strategies aims to ease chronic pain and promote the body’s natural healing for lasting relief. Patients appreciate Benita Safaryan’s compassionate care and dedication to improving their quality of life through personalized treatment plans.
City: Glendale, California, USA
Visit types: Virtual and in-person
Spoken languages: English, Armenian, Farsi
Interpreting services for other languages: No
Niki Rarig, ND, LAc
Niki Rarig, ND, LAc
Niki Rarig—Endometriosis Acupuncturist
Summary: Niki Rarig, ND, LAc, is a compassionate endometriosis acupuncturist at East West Natural Medicine Center in San Luis Obispo, California. Niki Rarig embraces a collaborative, patient-centered approach, encouraging patients to build a supportive care team that may include excision surgeons, OBGYNs, pelvic floor therapists, mental health professionals, and nutrition experts. With expertise in acupuncture and naturopathic medicine, she addresses the physical, mental, and emotional aspects of endometriosis pain to enhance overall quality of life. Niki Rarig also focuses on related digestive and bladder issues, offering thorough assessments and treatments for conditions such as IBS, SIBO, and interstitial cystitis. Her integrative approach combines acupuncture, herbal medicine, supplements, and lifestyle changes, tailored to each patient’s unique needs for effective symptom management and improved well-being.
City: San Luis Obispo, California, USA
Visit types: Virtual and in-person
Spoken languages: English
Interpreting services for other languages: No
Denise Weisner, DACM, L. AC
Denise Weisner, DACM, L. AC
Denise Weisner—Endometriosis Acupuncturist
Summary: Denise Weisner, DACM, L. AC, is a compassionate endometriosis acupuncturist based in Los Angeles, California, dedicated to helping patients find relief from endometriosis pain. At Natural Healing & Acupuncture, Denise Weisner combines acupuncture with personalized recommendations on diet, lifestyle, supplements, and herbal therapies to support better menstrual comfort and ovulation health. Her holistic approach focuses on easing painful symptoms and improving overall well-being, ensuring each patient receives care tailored to their unique needs. She believes in empowering individuals to manage their endometriosis with gentle, natural therapies that promote balance and healing. Patients appreciate her warm, professional manner and her commitment to addressing both the physical and lifestyle factors that influence endometriosis symptoms.
City: San Diego, California, USA
Visit types: Virtual and in-person
Spoken languages: English
Interpreting services for other languages: No
