Menopause and Acupuncture: Easing the Transition
Perimenopause and menopause can significantly impact an individual's quality of life, health, and overall well-being. For people who either cannot or choose not to use hormone replacement therapy (HRT), acupuncture offers an alternative treatment option that can help manage the symptoms associated with menopause.
Common Menopause Symptoms:
Hot Flashes
Night Sweats
Anxiety
Mood Swings
Insomnia
Fatigue
How Acupuncture Can Help:
Hot Flashes/Night Sweats: In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), hot flashes and night sweats are often attributed to an imbalance of Yin and Yang. During menopause, Yin tends to become reduced. Regular acupuncture treatments aim to restore balance by nourishing Kidney Yin, which can help alleviate these uncomfortable symptoms.
Anxiety: Acupuncture sessions can be deeply calming experiences, providing immediate relief during the treatment. The calming effects of acupuncture often extend beyond the clinic, helping to reduce anxiety in daily life. Additionally, the support of a committed acupuncture team can offer reassurance and ease worries, contributing to overall mental well-being.
Insomnia: Sleep disturbances, including insomnia, are common during menopause. Acupuncture can help regulate the body and promote relaxation, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep. By targeting specific acupuncture points, treatments can address the underlying imbalances that contribute to sleep issues.
Fatigue: Menopause can bring about persistent fatigue, making it challenging to maintain energy levels throughout the day. Acupuncture can enhance energy, also known as Qi, flow and improve overall vitality. By addressing the root causes of energy depletion, acupuncture supports a more balanced and energized state.
Apply acupressure to the following points to help nourish Yin and alleviate your hot flashes:
Spleen 6 is three finger-widths above the inner ankle bone, on the back inner border of the shinbone
Kidney 3 is located behind the inner ankle bone in the depression between the bone and the Achilles tendon
Menopause is a natural life stage that often comes with a variety of challenging symptoms. For those seeking a holistic approach, acupuncture can offer a gentle and effective option to manage menopause symptoms like hot flashes, anxiety, insomnia, and fatigue. With the potential to restore balance within the body and nourish Yin, acupuncture aims to ease this transitional phase while enhancing overall wellness. Whether you're exploring acupuncture as an alternative to hormone therapy or simply seeking relief, it offers a personalized and supportive pathway toward a healthier, more balanced experience of menopause.
This post was written by wellbe’s Registered Acupuncturist, Sharon Whelan. Click here to book your first visit with her.