Acupuncture
Acupuncture for PMS, Menstrual Cramps, and Irregularity
Nancy Lowe, L.Ac., Santa Cruz
30 May 2011
I have successfully treated many women for PMS and painful menstruation with acupuncture and herbal medicine.
Chinese medicine has a long history of addressing all things gynecological. PMS and cramps as well as menstrual irregularity respond well to acupuncture, herbal medicine and changing some dietary and lifestyle habits.
As a rule of thumb I like to treat weekly for 2-3 months to establish a new rhythm and solidify the treatment. Improvement in symptoms is usually experienced within 1 month of treatment. If the symptoms are severe or very long standing, then it may take longer. PMS and menstrual cramps are very often due to stagnant qi and blood, but we also commonly see symptoms of deficient qi and blood. These may present simultaneously. Most often we will be treating the Liver, Spleen and Kidney dynamics.
There are a number of very popular and effective herbal formulas that treat common gynecological complaints. The herbal formula may change throughout the cycle and can be taken daily to provide support between acupuncture treatments. Moxabustion may also be used to warm and vitalize the qi and blood.
“If you suffer from menstrual pain or irregularity it is advisable to get regular exercise, reduce or eliminate caffeine, sugar and simple carbs.”
It is also important to get enough protein and drink plenty of water.
Any emotion can have a disrupting effect on hormonal balance. Unresolved anger or frustration, issues around sexuality and self-esteem can all be factors in creating imbalance and pain during the menstrual cycle. Acupuncture and herbs are safe and effective ways to restore hormonal balance.
Emotional Freedom Techniques [EFT] is a very powerful way to eradicate the old emotional patterns that get established during our lives. EFT is a simple technique of tapping on specific acupuncture points while verbalizing about the problem. This has the effect of re-patterning the way the brain responds to the target problem and restores balance to the channels that were disrupted by the issue.
EFT can be used alone or in conjunction with acupuncture for a particularly dynamic way to the physical and emotional imbalance that are part of PMS and painful periods.
Please contact me today for a free consultation to find out if this is right for you.
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