By: Shelley Conn 

Yes. In fact, gynecological conditions are some of the most successfully treated problems by acupuncture or Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).

Premenstrual Syndrome covers a broad spectrum of symptoms before a period. Symptoms may be emotional, such as depression, irritability, sadness, anxiety, or poor concentration. PMS may also involve physical symptoms, such as breast tenderness, a change in bowel habits, acne, or loss of libido. Symptoms can vary widely in terms of severity, and may change from month to month.

Within the framework of modern medicine, problems associated with PMS are treated as any other disease. Its “symptoms” are treated with over-the-counter or prescription drugs or hormones. Severe PMS is considered an indicator that an underlying imbalance exists. Treatment is focused on correcting the imbalance, or the source of the problem, not just treating outward “symptoms”.

Imbalances can arise from a variety of factors, including poor diet, too much work physical or emotional trauma, constitutionally weak Qi (energy) or stress. These imbalances ultimately cause a blockage of Qi or blood in one of the body’s organs or energy pathways. When Qi and blood become blocked, they stagnate and are unable to properly nourish the body. This stagnation frequently manifests in women in the form of PMS.

Your practitioner may use a variety of modalities to treat your PMS. Depending on your specific imbalance, he/she may use Acupuncture, Chinese herbs, dietary therapy, bodywork and lifestyle changes. When performed by a Licensed Acupuncturist, acupuncture is a safe, natural, drug-free, and effective way to treat PMS.

By: Lynn Jaffee

Can problems associated with menopause be treated with acupuncture?

Yes. In fact, gynecological conditions are some of the most successfully
treated problems in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Practitioners of TCM may
use a variety of modalities, including acupuncture, Chinese herbs, diet therapy,
and a form of massage called Tui Na.

How are the symptoms of menopause treated differently in Traditional Chinese
Medicine than in modern medicine?

Within the framework of modern medicine, problems associated with menopause
are treated as any other disease. Its “symptoms” are treated with prescription
drugs or hormones. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, menopause is a natural part
of the aging process. Any problems associated with menopause are considered
indicators that an underlying imbalance exists. Treatment is focused on
correcting the imbalance, or the source of the problem, not just treating
outward “symptoms”.

What exactly is out of balance?

In Traditional Chinese Medicine longevity is associated with essence. Essence
is given to us by our parents at the time of conception, and provides us with
the basic energy to power all life functions, including growth, maturation, and
reproductive function. When essence is plentiful, we are able to easily recover
from illness and adapt to change. When we age, we slowly drain essence from our
body. When essence is completely depleted, we die. Some people use up essence
more quickly than others, depending on their constitution and lifestyle. Signs
that essence is declining include graying hair, loss of libido, backache,
fatigue, and of course the end of the menstrual cycle, or menopause. If a woman
has lost an inordinate amount of essence, she may experience problems during
menopause.

Another imbalance that may create problems during menopause is the slowing of
the flow of Yin. Yin is a cooling and nourishing substance in our body. Often
Yin in low in women who are experience menopausal problems such as hot flashes,
night sweats, heart palpitations, insomnia, and dry skin.

In some women, problems associated with menopause are caused by a decrease in
Yang, which is the warming and transforming substance in our body. When this
happens, women may experience water retention, weight gain, edema, indigestion,
high cholesterol and high blood pressure.

Can low Essence or Yin be replaced?

Yes. While we receive essence from our parents, it can be replaced to a
certain extent. A deficiency of Yin or Yang, actually an imbalance between the
two, can also be rectified. Correcting any of these imbalances may require
acupuncture, Chinese herbs and diet and lifestyle changes.

Is acupuncture safe?

Yes. When performed by a Licensed Acupuncturist, acupuncture is safe. It is
also a natural, drug-free, and effective way to address menopause.