Acupuncture for Menstrual Irregularities
Restoring Hormonal Balance Naturally
Menstrual irregularities can significantly impact a woman's life, causing discomfort and emotional distress. Acupuncture, an age-old healing technique, offers a natural and effective approach to address menstrual irregularities by restoring hormonal balance. In this blog, we delve into the benefits of acupuncture for menstrual health and how it can provide relief and improve overall well-being.
Understanding Acupuncture for Menstrual Irregularities
Acupuncture, a key component of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body. These points, known as acupoints, are linked to energy pathways that flow through the body. By stimulating these acupoints, acupuncture aims to regulate the flow of vital energy, or Qi, and promote harmony within the body.
How Acupuncture Helps with Menstrual Irregularities
Acupuncture can be beneficial for various menstrual irregularities, including:
Irregular Menstrual Cycles: Acupuncture helps regulate hormonal fluctuations, encouraging more predictable menstrual cycles.
Painful Menstruation (Dysmenorrheah): By promoting blood flow and reducing inflammation, acupuncture can alleviate menstrual cramps and discomfort.
Absent or Scanty Periods (Amenorrhea): Acupuncture's impact on the endocrine system can aid in reestablishing regular menstrual periods.
Excessive Bleeding (Menorrhagia): Acupuncture may help regulate blood flow and reduce heavy menstrual bleeding.
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS): Acupuncture's ability to balance hormones can alleviate mood swings, bloating, and other PMS symptoms.
The Mechanisms Behind Acupuncture's Effectiveness
Acupuncture's benefits for menstrual health are rooted in its ability to:
Regulate Hormones: Acupuncture influences the release of hormones, including estrogen and progesterone, which play a vital role in menstrual regulation.
Reduce Stress: Stress can disrupt the hormonal balance, leading to menstrual irregularities. Acupuncture's calming effects help reduce stress and promote emotional well-being.
Enhance Blood Circulation: Improved blood flow to the reproductive organs supports healthier menstrual cycles.
Boost Endorphins: Acupuncture stimulates the release of endorphins, which act as natural pain relievers and mood enhancers.
Finding a qualified Acupuncturist
The British Acupuncture Council is the regulatory body that holds a list of acupuncturists in the UK who have acquired the level of study required to practice. It upholds very high standards of care and professionalism and its members are insured with them and undergo post graduate training to support their ongoing learning. You can find an acupuncturist in your area by checking their website and searching for local practitioners by postcode. You are always welcome to call a practitioner to discuss your individual needs and to assess your suitability for treatment.
Insurance and paying for treatment
Most private health insurance companies pay for acupuncture and all you need to do is to give them a call and understand the procedure for claiming. Most of the time the company will ask you to pay for your session and then will re-imburse you following receipt from the practitioner. A few require a referral from your GP but most are self-referral.
Tailor made consultation
Receiving acupuncture is a different experience to most other medical consultations as there is more time to really understand the time line of the complaint and to work with each patient individually and holistically. Most practitioners work for an hour with each individual and this allows plenty of time for a tailor-made treatment plan to be discussed. Every individual is different and the time allows for a collaborative discussion for improvement. This encompasses all areas of life, diet, lifestyle and emotions – no stone is left unturned.
Acupuncture with Kate
Kate practices acupuncture in St Albans and in Harpenden and has been in private practice for 25 years. She takes a passionate interest in women’s health and has experience supporting all manner of menstrual issues. Do contact her today to discuss your individual concerns.