For many women, the journey through menopause can be fraught with various symptoms that can range in severity from mild at one end of the spectrum to debilitating at the other. The menopausal transition is different for every woman and tailored treatments offered by acupuncture can provide significant benefits. Although studies outline more, let’s look at just three of the benefits of using acupuncture to treat menopausal symptoms. 

Hot Flashes

Most people in general (even men) associate hot flashes with menopause; hot flashes can be one of the most unfortunate and uncomfortable symptoms. However, a 2014 study suggests acupuncture could be the ticket to reducing the severity and frequency of hot flashes.

Hot flashes are defined as a feeling of heat over all or parts of the body causing redness of the face and neck, red blotches on the arms, back and chest, as well as heavy sweating. The most common treatment is hormone therapy, but such treatments have been shown to increase the risk of stroke, cancer, and heart disease. 

In a 2016 study, 209 perimenopausal and postmenopausal women aged 45-60 years of age who experienced four or more vasomotor symptoms (like hot flashes) per day were recruited to receive up to 20 acupuncture treatments within the first six months. Researchers concluded that a course of acupuncture treatments was “associated with a significant reduction in vasomotor symptoms, and several quality-of-life measures, compared with no acupuncture, and that clinical benefit persisted for at least six months beyond the end of treatment.”

Depression and Anxiety

Many menopausal women can also suffer from mood disorders like depression and anxiety. A 2013 study found that “acupuncture was ‘promising’ as a therapy for menopausal women with depression.”

Poor Sleep and Insomnia

Research also points to acupuncture as a help in dealing with poor sleep and insomnia related to menopause. A 2015 review included 12 studies examining the effectiveness of acupuncture for sleep disorders in post-menopausal women. These dozen studies utilized a variety of treatment protocols, interventions, and various durations of time. But researchers ultimately found that 75% of participants reported improvements in sleep following acupuncture treatment. 

As mentioned previously, menopause is unique to each woman. Women who have had children may have a different experience compared to those who have not in terms of type and severity of symptoms. I will go through a detailed health history and examination to determine your specific needs.

You don’t have to accept poor sleep, mood swings, or hot flashes as just something to endure. Talk to me today and explore your options. The proper treatment plan can make the menopause journey a bit less turbulent!

The post Three Ways Acupuncture Can Help with Menopause appeared first on Tybee Acupuncture.

Women’s health issues can be complex and unique to each person. However, traditional Western medicine solutions are full of invasive procedures that can alter hormones. Other solutions include prescription drugs that can have strong side effects for those taking them. Unfortunately, many women believe these are the only options. 

However, acupuncture can be a tremendous solution in addressing a growing number of women’s health issues. These are the six most common, but there are many more so be sure you talk to your acupuncturist when filling out your health intake so you can get each of your questions answered. 

Menstrual Issues, Menopause, and Endometriosis

Many women suffer from complications during their menstrual cycles. No two women are the same so this time of the month can be debilitating for some, causing extreme pain and discomfort. Acupuncture can be a great help in addressing the symptoms of endometriosis. Acupuncture can also be a solution for the headaches, cycle irregularity and abdominal cramps that come each month.

 Acupuncture is also a great option for those closing out their reproductive years and entering menopause. Acupuncture is an effective treatment for all the symptoms that come during this time including hot flashes, moodiness, insomnia, heart palpitations, just to name a few. 

Infertility and Pregnancy 

Pregnancy is a glorious time but it also can be challenging for many women. Acupuncture treatments can help with the low-back pain many pregnant women suffer from but it can also help with issues of morning sickness and nausea.

For those suffering from infertility, acupuncture can address the irregular menstrual cycles and endometriosis that can cause these issues. Acupuncture directs blood flow to the reproductive organs to help regulate the menstrual cycle.

Insomnia

Research has shown that, for a variety of reasons, more women than men suffer from insomnia. Clinical studies have shown that acupuncture is a great help in improving both sleep quality and duration. But the key is regular acupuncture treatments. Talk to your acupuncturist about your individualized care plan so you can get back to a restful night’s sleep!

Depression and Anxiety

For those looking for a drug-free option, clinical research has also shown that acupuncture is just as effective as antidepressants but without the harsh side effects that can come from some prescription medication. Regular acupuncture treatments can help lower blood pressure, reduce instances of anxiety and panic attacks and help to lower stress.

Chronic Pain

Chronic pain is an issue for millions of people and most people treat it by popping an over-the-counter pain medication. However, consistent acupuncture treatments can help with various chronic pain conditions whether from arthritis, fibromyalgia, or injury. Acupuncture can help with joint pain and the chronic inflammation that can come with arthritis. Check with your acupuncturist to see what care options are available if you suffer from chronic pain.

Skin Health

One of the key components of acupuncture is how it increases blood flow and this can certainly benefit skin health. Facial acupuncture has been shown to reduce puffiness and diminish fine lines and wrinkles. Most women don’t think of acupuncture for its anti-aging benefits but it has been clinically proven to be a great asset to improving facial skin health, thus improving a woman’s appearance and mood. 

If you are looking for an effective and drug-free option to treat your health issues, acupuncture is a great place to start. Talk to your clinician today to have a thorough health history so you can get a care plan in place that will address your health issues and get you back to health safely and without the side effects that can come from powerful prescription medications. Don’t wait, make an appointment today!

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Egg health

Getting pregnant can be frustrating when it isn’t happening as easily as planned. There are many reasons you could be dealing with a difficult pregnancy including egg health. There are many factors that play into egg health including blood circulation, stress and hormonal balance. For improving blood and oxygen flow, try to get some sort of exercise whether it is yoga, running or simply going on a brisk walk at least three times a week. Ask a massage therapist about abdominal massage, which can increase blood flow to the reproductive system. Stress can also play a very important factor in egg health. Find ways to de-stress with meditation practices, acupuncture and deep breathing.

Hormonal balance

Hormonal imbalances in women are common and can result in weight gain, fatigue, skin problems, infertility and PMS. Hormones are an important part to our body’s growth and development, mood, reproduction and metabolism. To keep your body in balance, avoid high omega-6 polyunsaturated fats that are found in vegetable oils. Reduce your caffeine intake. Too much caffeine can have a negative impact on the endocrine system. Most importantly, make sure to get an adequate amount of sleep each night. When the body does not get enough rest, hormones cannot regulate.

Breast health

There are many reasons that some women have a higher risk of breast cancer including both genetics and environmental impacts. Research has shown that keeping a diet of fresh, unprocessed foods can help the health of breast tissue. Chemical exposure from foods as well as other environmental factors have been shown to be high in women who have breast cancer. Foods to eliminate from your diet include highly processed foods, additives, canned foods and soy. Avoiding foods that are high in hormones and adding foods that are packed with antioxidants such as berries can help lower your risk of breast cancer.

Metabolism

Many women feel their metabolism has slowed over the years, making it harder to break down and burn calories and fat. Try adding more omega-3 fatty acids into your diet such as salmon and tuna. Omega-3 fatty acids have been found to help regulate blood sugar and lower inflammation, which can then improve metabolic function. Increasing strength training can also help give the metabolism a boost. The more muscle you have, the more your resting metabolism will increase to burn fat. Lastly, eating breakfast has been shown to give your metabolism a jump start for the day compared to eating your first meal later in the day.

Immune health

Don’t let the cold and flu season get you down this year. There are many natural ways to boost your immune system to prevent illness and to improve energy levels. Assess your stress levels and take action if you are feeling stressed and overwhelmed. Spend some time practicing deep breathing or finding an activity that you find relaxing. Try adding in more garlic and ginger to your diet. These natural ingredients contain properties that help boost the immune system and lower cold and flu symptoms.

Sources:
http://natural-fertility-info.com/increase-egg-health
http://wellnessmama.com/5946/natural-breast-health/
http://wellnessmama.com/5425/balance-hormones/
http://www.health.com/health/gallery/0,,20306911_7,00.html

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