Acupuncture is an effective way to address many of the issues women face throughout life. From menstrual problems to fertility to unwelcome aspects of pregnancy to menopause, acupuncture is a medication-free way to help modulate and balance your systems for optimal health.
Acupuncture to Regulate Menstruation
As we know, hormone levels change and fluctuate throughout the month, and throughout our lives as well. With many of these fluctuations come many menstrual issues, including irregular menstruation, cramping and painful periods, headaches, backaches, nausea, breast tenderness, irritability and mood swings, and spotting. Acupuncture can be used to regulate your cycle to minimize or remove many of these issues. Normalizing the cycle can aid in fertility, and general quality of life.
Acupuncture for Fertility
In cases where medical intervention is needed for fertility, acupuncture can be used to improve the success rates for IUI and IVF by regulating hormones, by improving the function of the ovaries, improving uterine health, and decreasing chances of miscarriage. Acupuncture is also used at this time to reduce the side effects of medications used at this time, to reduce stress, and to bolster the immune system.
Acupuncture during Pregnancy
Pregnancy is a mind and body altering experience. While many of these experiences are amazing – the first time your baby kicks, hearing that little heartbeat; other experiences may not be as enjoyable.
You may experience conditions such as:
- morning sickness
- heartburn
- insomnia
- sciatica
- carpal tunnel syndrome
- constipation
- hemorrhoids
- swollen legs and feet
These complications can be successfully addressed through acupuncture.
Acupuncture for Labour Preparation
Pregnancy is a time filled with many changes. The last few weeks are the ideal time for you to focus on yourself and prepare for the experience of having your child.
There are many things you can do at this time to ensure that you have the best possible experience. Acupuncture is one way to bring your body in to harmony. This harmony can support you during the birthing process to promote a natural labour.
The benefits acupuncture can bring to you include a reduction in the duration of your labour, reduced rates of medical inductions, and reduced chances of the need for a C-section.
Acupuncture helps your cervix soften and dilate before the start of labour, and makes it more likely for you to go into labour near to your due date. Then, if you do need medical induction your body can respond better to it. The best time to begin acupuncture is four to five weeks before your due date.
Acupuncture can also be used to induce labour if your pregnancy progresses past your due date.
Acupuncture during Menopause
Although menopause is a natural and inevitable part of life, there are many uncomfortable symptoms that accompany it. Menopausal symptoms that can be addressed through acupuncture include night sweats, hot flashes, mood swings, restlessness, heart palpitations, problems sleeping, cold hands and feet, digestive issues, weight gain, and water retention