Happier Periods for Everyone

Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine offers treatment and support for irregular cycles, premenstrual symptoms, painful or heavy periods and more.

Gynecology has been an integral part of Chinese medicine for thousands of years, mentioned in some of the earliest texts we have. Even in our modern era, Western medicine is limited in the options it has for irregular cycles, painful or heavy periods, or premenstrual symptoms that can range from uncomfortable to debilitating. Hormonal birth control can be a life changing intervention, but it’s not the only option available. Our practitioners at Energy Matters use acupuncture and herbal medicine to regulate cycles, reduce pain and ease PMS. 

Acupuncture + Herbs are a dynamic duo. Acupuncture can offer fast relief from menstrual pain and PMS symptoms like bloating, breast tenderness, headaches and mood swings. For deeper treatment, herbal medicine can bring your body into balance. Based on the nature of your symptoms and an assessment of your body and constitution, your practitioner will prescribe a herbal combination. This might change throughout your cycle, working to help your body find an easier rhythm. Extensively studied gynecology herbal superstars include Dang Gui (angelica) (sometimes called ‘Women’s Ginseng’), Bai Shao (white peony), Chai Hu (bupleurum), Shu Di Huang (rehmannia) and Chuan Xiong (ligusticum). 

Self Care + Traditional Wisdom. Shame, trauma and the patriarchy can compound our menstrual experiences. The modern capitalist ‘work through it’ mentality we see in tampon commercials might work for some, but the suggestion from traditional medicine, backed by our clinical experience, is to rest on period days, staying warm and eating warming, easy to digest foods. Replenish blood loss with iron rich foods. Craving sweets on your period? The sweet flavor has an anti-spasmodic action in Chinese medicine, as well as calming the spirit. No wonder you want a sweet treat! (try these delicious black sesame cherry date balls) In the week before your period, getting some extra exercise can ease PMS and reduce cramps when you start to bleed.

What will treatment look like for me? That will depend on you! Some combination of weekly acupuncture, herbal medicine and adjustments to your food and exercise habits can offer dramatic changes. For menstrual issues of all kinds, 3 cycles or months is a rule of thumb to start to see lasting changes. Want to know more about how acupuncture and herbs can help? Schedule a New Patient appointment with Angela, Mandy or Prajna, or reach out to me (Clinic Manager Kirsten) for a free phone consultation

PS Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture offers support for menopausal symptoms too!