Acupuncture and Chinese herbs are extremely effective at reducing menstrual-related pain. Usually for any menstrual cycle-related complaint, it is recommended to be treated weekly for the first month at least. Pelvic pain related to endometriosis, cysts, fibroids, and fertility treatment all usually respond very well to acupuncture and herbs.

Acupuncture and herbs are extremely effective for regulating menstrual cycles, such as with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) or cases of amenorrhea after discontinuing hormonal birth control. For most cycle-related complaints, weekly treatment is suggested for at least the first month, and treatment usually takes several months. Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome benefit most from ongoing treatment.

Acupuncture is used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) to address various health issues, including heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia). The approach involves stimulating specific points on the body with thin needles to promote balance and improve the flow of Qi (vital energy), blood, and other bodily functions.

Here’s how acupuncture might help with heavy periods:

1. Balancing Hormones: In TCM, heavy periods can be associated with imbalances in the body's energy or blood flow. Acupuncture is believed to help regulate the endocrine system and improve hormonal balance, which may lead to a more regular and lighter menstrual flow.

2. Improving Blood Flow: By stimulating specific acupuncture points, the therapy may enhance blood circulation and improve the quality of the blood, which can help normalize menstrual flow and reduce heavy bleeding.

3. Reducing Inflammation: Acupuncture might help reduce inflammation in the pelvic area, which can be a factor in heavy menstrual bleeding. By decreasing inflammation, it may alleviate some of the symptoms associated with heavy periods.

4. Regulating the Menstrual Cycle: Acupuncture is used to support overall reproductive health and balance the menstrual cycle. A well-regulated cycle can lead to lighter and more manageable periods.

5. Relieving Stress: Stress can impact menstrual health. Acupuncture may help reduce stress and improve emotional well-being, which in turn can positively affect menstrual flow.

In practice, an acupuncturist would develop a personalized treatment plan based on an individual’s specific symptoms and overall health. It’s often used in conjunction with other treatments or lifestyle changes for best results. If you’re considering acupuncture, it's a good idea to consult with both a qualified acupuncturist and your healthcare provider to ensure it's appropriate for your situation.

Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) practice that aims to address various health issues, including amenorrhea, which is the absence of menstruation. The approach is based on the concept of balancing the body's energy (Qi), blood, and other vital substances. Here’s how acupuncture might help treat amenorrhea:

1. Restoring Hormonal Balance

In TCM, amenorrhea can be linked to imbalances in the body's energy or blood, or disruptions in the function of the liver, kidney, or spleen. Acupuncture aims to regulate these imbalances and restore proper function to the reproductive system. By stimulating specific acupuncture points, the therapy may help regulate the endocrine system and improve hormonal balance, which can support the return of menstruation.

2. Improving Blood Flow

Acupuncture is believed to enhance blood circulation and improve the quality and flow of blood. This can help address issues such as insufficient blood flow to the uterus, which may be contributing to the absence of menstruation. Better blood flow can support the health of the uterine lining and encourage the return of a regular menstrual cycle.

3. Regulating the Menstrual Cycle

By addressing underlying imbalances, acupuncture can help regulate the menstrual cycle and promote the natural hormonal fluctuations needed for menstruation. Regular treatments might help stimulate the body’s natural rhythms and encourage the onset of menstruation.

4. Addressing Stress and Emotional Well-Being

Stress and emotional factors can significantly impact menstrual health. Acupuncture may help reduce stress and promote overall emotional well-being, which can, in turn, positively affect menstrual function. Balancing the body's stress response may help alleviate stress-related causes of amenorrhea.

5. Supporting Overall Health

Acupuncture often focuses on improving overall health and vitality. By enhancing general well-being and addressing any underlying health issues, acupuncture may help create the right conditions for the menstrual cycle to resume.

6. Individualized Treatment

An acupuncturist will develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs, considering your overall health, lifestyle, and any underlying conditions contributing to amenorrhea. This personalized approach can target the root causes of the condition and provide a more effective treatment.

Integration with Conventional Medicine

While acupuncture can be a beneficial complementary therapy, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause of amenorrhea and explore appropriate treatment options. Amenorrhea can result from various medical conditions, including hormonal imbalances, pregnancy, and chronic health issues, so a comprehensive approach that includes conventional medical evaluation and treatment is often necessary.

Chinese Medicine has been increasingly used and accepted for the treatment of infertility in the past few decades. Acupuncture, herbs and nutrition can help to balance hormones and attain optimal health to prepare the body for conception and a healthy pregnancy, as

well as treating male factor infertility. We work with both men and women before conception, and with women during pregnancy and post-partum to ensure health and comfort along every step of the way.

The following are some of the conditions which may be successfully addressed with Chinese Medicine: irregular cycles, PCOS, endometriosis, poor response to ovarian stimulation, thin uterine lining, fibroids, dysmenorrhea, and luteal phase insufficiency, as well as sperm quality issues such as low count, morphology, and motility.

Christine Chung specializes in treating fertility. For her specific post-graduate training, please see her bio.

Menopause can cause some women discomfort with symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, insomnia, irritability and vaginal dryness. Both acupuncture and herbs are used effectively to manage and reduce menopausal symptoms.

Acupuncture is often used to address the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), which can include a range of physical and emotional symptoms such as bloating, mood swings, fatigue, and irritability. In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), PMS is viewed as a result of imbalances in the body’s energy (Qi), blood, and the functioning of various organs. Here’s how acupuncture might help treat PMS:

1. Balancing Hormones

Acupuncture aims to restore balance in the body's energy and help regulate the endocrine system. By stimulating specific acupuncture points, the therapy can support hormonal balance, which may help alleviate symptoms related to PMS, such as mood swings and irregular menstrual cycles.

2. Improving Blood Flow

In TCM, PMS symptoms can be related to issues with blood flow and stagnation. Acupuncture is believed to enhance blood circulation and alleviate stagnation, which can reduce symptoms like bloating and breast tenderness. Improved blood flow can also support a more balanced and regular menstrual cycle.

3. Regulating Qi (Energy)

PMS is thought to result from imbalances in Qi (vital energy). Acupuncture works to restore the smooth flow of Qi throughout the body, which can help ease symptoms such as irritability, anxiety, and fatigue. By promoting the free flow of Qi, acupuncture can help alleviate the emotional and physical symptoms of PMS.

4. Addressing Stress and Emotional Well-Being

Stress and emotional factors can exacerbate PMS symptoms. Acupuncture may help reduce stress and improve emotional well-being by calming the nervous system and promoting relaxation. This can help manage mood swings, anxiety, and other emotional symptoms associated with PMS.

5. Supporting Digestive Health

Symptoms like bloating and digestive discomfort are common in PMS. Acupuncture can help support digestive function and alleviate gastrointestinal issues by improving Qi and blood flow to the digestive organs.

6. Personalized Treatment

An acupuncturist will tailor the treatment plan to your specific symptoms and overall health. This personalized approach allows for targeting the particular imbalances or issues contributing to your PMS, providing a more effective and individualized treatment.

7. Complementary Approach

Acupuncture is often used in conjunction with other lifestyle changes and treatments. Combining acupuncture with dietary adjustments, exercise, and stress management techniques can enhance overall results and help manage PMS more effectively.

Integration with Conventional Medicine

While acupuncture can be a helpful complementary therapy, it’s important to consult with your healthcare provider to address PMS. Conventional medical treatments and lifestyle changes may also be necessary, depending on the severity of your symptoms and any underlying health conditions.

Acupuncture treatment for correcting breech position of the fetus is one of the most well-researched applications of acupuncture (Acupuncture plus moxibustion to resolve breech presentation: a randomized controlled study). Ideally the baby’s position may be assessed by 34 weeks, to allow for moxibustion treatment to take effect while there is still more uterine space for the baby to move, although treatment after 34 weeks is often still effective.

Acupuncture is often used as a complementary therapy for managing Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), a condition characterized by hormonal imbalances, irregular menstrual cycles, and the presence of ovarian cysts. In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), PCOS is seen as a result of imbalances in the body’s Qi (vital energy), blood, and the functioning of organs like the liver, kidneys, and spleen. Here’s how acupuncture might help in the treatment of PCOS:

1. Regulating Hormones

PCOS often involves hormonal imbalances, including elevated levels of androgens (male hormones) and insulin resistance. Acupuncture aims to help regulate these hormonal levels by stimulating specific points that influence the endocrine system. This can potentially help normalize menstrual cycles and improve symptoms related to hormonal imbalance.

2. Improving Insulin Sensitivity

Insulin resistance is a common feature of PCOS. Acupuncture may help improve insulin sensitivity by influencing metabolic processes and supporting pancreatic function. Improved insulin sensitivity can lead to better blood sugar control and reduced symptoms of PCOS.

3. Restoring Menstrual Regularity

Irregular or absent menstrual cycles are a common issue with PCOS. Acupuncture can help restore regular menstrual cycles by addressing imbalances in Qi and blood flow, which supports the reproductive system and encourages more consistent ovulation.

4. Enhancing Blood Flow

Acupuncture is believed to improve blood circulation throughout the body, including to the reproductive organs. Enhanced blood flow can help with the health of the ovaries and uterus, potentially reducing the size or number of ovarian cysts and improving overall reproductive health.

5. Supporting Ovarian Function

By addressing underlying imbalances, acupuncture may help improve ovarian function and support the natural hormonal cycles. This can potentially aid in reducing symptoms such as cyst formation and irregular ovulation.

6. Managing Stress and Emotional Well-being

PCOS can be associated with stress and emotional issues, which can exacerbate symptoms. Acupuncture helps reduce stress and promote relaxation by calming the nervous system and improving overall emotional well-being. Lower stress levels can positively impact hormonal balance and symptom management.

7. Balancing Qi and Blood

In TCM, PCOS is often linked to imbalances in Qi and blood flow. Acupuncture works to restore balance by stimulating specific points that can help regulate the body’s energy and blood circulation, addressing the root causes of symptoms associated with PCOS.

8. Individualized Treatment

An acupuncturist will develop a personalized treatment plan based on your specific symptoms and health conditions. This individualized approach ensures that the therapy targets the unique aspects of your PCOS and addresses your particular needs.

Integration with Conventional Medicine

While acupuncture can be a valuable complementary therapy, it’s important to work with your healthcare provider to manage PCOS. Conventional treatments, such as medications for insulin resistance or hormonal therapy, may also be necessary. Combining acupuncture with these treatments, along with lifestyle changes like diet and exercise, can provide a comprehensive approach to managing PCOS effectively.

Acupuncture is frequently used as a complementary therapy for conditions like fibroids, ovarian cysts, and endometriosis, which are all related to the reproductive system. In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), these conditions are typically seen as resulting from imbalances in the body's Qi (vital energy), blood flow, and the functioning of organs like the liver, kidneys, and spleen. Here’s how acupuncture is believed to help with each of these conditions:

1. Fibroids

Fibroids are non-cancerous tumors of the uterus that can cause symptoms like heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, and frequent urination.

• Regulating Blood Flow: Acupuncture may improve blood circulation to the pelvic region and the uterus, which can help address issues related to fibroids. Enhanced blood flow might help in reducing the size or growth of fibroids and alleviating associated symptoms.

• Balancing Hormones: Fibroids can be influenced by hormonal imbalances, particularly excess estrogen. Acupuncture aims to restore hormonal balance, which can help manage the symptoms of fibroids and potentially slow their growth.

• Reducing Inflammation: Acupuncture is thought to have anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce inflammation and associated pain around fibroids.

• Promoting Overall Health: By improving Qi and blood flow, acupuncture supports overall reproductive health and helps manage symptoms like pain and discomfort.

2. Ovarian Cysts

Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs on the ovaries that can cause pelvic pain, bloating, and irregular periods.

• Enhancing Blood Circulation: Acupuncture can help improve blood flow to the ovaries and pelvic region, which might support the health of the ovaries and aid in the resolution of cysts.

• Regulating Hormones: By promoting hormonal balance, acupuncture can help manage symptoms related to hormonal fluctuations that might contribute to cyst formation.

• Relieving Pain: Acupuncture may help alleviate pelvic pain and discomfort associated with ovarian cysts by promoting the release of endorphins and improving Qi flow.

• Supporting Overall Reproductive Health: Improving general reproductive health can help the body better manage and possibly reduce the size or number of ovarian cysts.

3. Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus, causing pain, heavy periods, and potentially infertility.

• Reducing Pain and Inflammation: Acupuncture may help relieve pain associated with endometriosis by reducing inflammation and promoting the release of natural painkillers like endorphins.

• Balancing Hormones: Acupuncture can assist in regulating hormones that influence endometrial tissue growth, potentially alleviating symptoms and improving the management of endometriosis.

• Improving Blood Flow: Enhanced circulation in the pelvic region can help reduce the pain and discomfort associated with endometriosis. It may also improve the health of the endometrial tissue.

• Regulating Menstrual Cycles: By supporting overall reproductive health and balancing Qi and blood, acupuncture can help regulate menstrual cycles, which might reduce the severity of endometriosis symptoms.

General Considerations

• Individualized Treatment: An acupuncturist will create a personalized treatment plan based on your specific symptoms and overall health. This tailored approach helps address the unique aspects of each condition.

• Complementary Approach: Acupuncture is often used alongside conventional treatments and lifestyle changes. For conditions like fibroids, cysts, and endometriosis, it’s important to work with your healthcare provider to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that includes both traditional medical treatments and complementary therapies.

Acupuncture can provide relief and support for managing symptoms, but it’s most effective when used as part of a holistic approach to treatment.