Can Acupuncture Help With Period Pain?

Today, we are going to answer the question: “Can Acupuncture help with period pain?”. At Willow Tree Acupuncture and Wellness Clinic, we have a deep passion for delivering exceptional patient care. Our expertise lies in providing specialized women’s health treatments, ensuring the highest quality of care possible. We understand that period pain can be debilitating and can have a huge impact on your daily life.

Rest assured, acupuncture has been used for centuries to treat a wide range of physical and mental health issues, including menstrual cramps and other types of period pain such as low back pain, or digestive upset. It works by stimulating certain points along the body’s energy pathways or meridians, which helps release endorphins – the body’s natural painkillers – as well as reduce inflammation. If you’re someone who’s tired of relying on painkillers to get through your period, this article is for you. If you’re looking for a safe, effective, more natural way to manage your period pain, keep reading! We love when patients come in after a course of treatment and exclaim, “That was the best period of my life!”

Understanding Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a holistic healing technique that has been practiced in China for over 3,000 years. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the body is composed of energy pathways called meridians, through which vital energy, or Qi, flows. When Qi becomes blocked or imbalanced, it can lead to various health issues, including menstrual pain. During an acupuncture session, a licensed practitioner who specializes in gynecological health (like us!) inserts thin needles into specific points along the meridians to restore the flow of Qi and restore balance to the body. These points are connected to different organs and systems in the body, including the reproductive system, which is how acupuncture helps with period pain.

How Acupuncture Helps with Period Pain

Acupuncture has been shown to be effective in relieving period pain by promoting blood circulation, reducing inflammation by stimulating anti-inflammatory proteins, and releasing endorphins (your body’s natural painkillers). By targeting specific acupuncture points, practitioners like us can help regulate hormone levels, relax the muscles, and alleviate pain associated with menstrual cramps. On top of that, one of the key benefits of acupuncture is its ability to address the root cause of the pain rather than just masking the symptoms. Unlike painkillers, which provide temporary relief, acupuncture aims to rebalance the body and restore its natural state of harmony with proper function.

To anyone who suffers from debilitating period pain, we understand that this might sound too good to be true, but there have been MANY studies done to support the idea that acupuncture helps with period pain. We are happy to discuss this in more detail when you come in for a consultation!

Finding a Qualified Acupuncturist for Help with Period Pain

When it comes to seeking acupuncture help with period pain, the first step is finding the right practitioner. Finding a qualified and licensed acupuncturist is important when seeking acupuncture treatment for period pain or any other condition. Women’s health and fertility is our specialty so if you are anywhere around Portland, the good news is, you’ve already found one! Otherwise, to find a qualified acupuncturist, we recommend you start by asking for recommendations from friends, family, or healthcare professionals who have had positive experiences with acupuncture. You can also check with national acupuncture associations or regulatory bodies to find licensed practitioners in your area.

Once you have a list of potential acupuncturists, take the time to research their qualifications, experience, and areas of specialization. It is also a good idea to schedule a consultation with the practitioner to discuss your specific concerns and treatment goals. During the consultation, ask about their training, credentials, and experience in treating menstrual pain.

What to Expect During an Acupuncture Session

If you’ve never had acupuncture before, you may wonder what to expect during a session. If acupuncture helps with period pain, what does that look like? The first appointment usually involves a thorough consultation with the acupuncturist, where we will ask about your medical history, lifestyle, and specific symptoms. This information helps us develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs. We value transparency and will make it a point to answer any of YOUR individual questions during this appointment, too.

Then, during the treatment, you will lie comfortably on a treatment table while we insert thin, sterile needles into specific acupuncture points on your body. The needles are typically left in place for about 20 to 30 minutes, during which you may experience a mild tingling or a dull ache sensation. It might surprise you, but many people find acupuncture to be a relaxing and soothing experience.