For those of us who experience PMS on a regular basis, we know how much of an uncomfortable experience it can be. PMS, also known as Premenstrual Syndrome, isa medically recognized condition that is impacted by the hormonal system, causing symptoms such as bloating, fatigue, cramps, and mood swings to occur in the days leading up to a person’s menstruation. It can interfere with our work, social life, ability to care for ourselves and others, and can cause great distress and pain when we are least equipped to deal with it.
PMS can range from mild to intense, with individuals experiencing symptoms between five to fourteen days during their cycle. While pharmaceuticals and over-the-counter medications can temporarily ease the discomforts of PMS symptoms, is there amore permanent way to deal with this recurring condition? Acupuncture is a well tested and natural method of healthcare, and can help rebalance your body’s hormones without the need for long-term reliance on western medication. Acupuncture is an environmentally-based, gentle solution for a very common and naturally occurring condition.
Symptoms of PMS
PMS can manifest in a variety of physical and emotional ways. Here are some of the most common symptoms that individuals deal with on a recurring basis;
Physical Symptoms
- Varying degrees of tiredness and fatigue
- Increasing frequency of headaches or migraines
- Lower back and abdominal discomfort
- Breast tenderness
- Bloating and water retention
- Cramps, stomach pain, and/or diarrhea
- Flareups in acne
- Changes in digestion
Emotional Symptoms
- Mood swings
- Fluctuations in frequency of irritability, tension, sadness, and/or anger
- Increases in anxiety, depression, and crying
- Insomnia and/or sleep disturbances
- Changes in appetite and food cravings
- Fluctuations in libido
- Changes in concentration and mental energy
How Acupuncture Helps
While western medicine often intends to suppress symptoms through regimented doses of medications, acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) aims to reduce symptoms by restoring balance to the body and focus on healing the cause of the symptoms. Acupuncture is a traditional form of alternative medicine that focuses on using trigger points to stimulate the central nervous system in order to release natural chemicals that can restore balance throughout the body. In Traditional Chinese Medicine studies, these trigger points are also linked to different organs in the body, each of which have different jobs to regulate different bodily systems. Specifically for PMS, imbalances in sleep cycles, digestion, hormone production, and emotional health can all impact the frequency and duration of both physical and mental symptoms.
To reduce symptoms of PMS, acupuncture has four main functions:
- Acupuncture treatments gently calm the nervous system. This can reduce inflammation, tension, and stress, and anxiety, which can lead to a reduction in mood swings, headaches, and feelings of depression and irritability over time.
- Acupuncture reduces the overproduction of hormones, which can stabilize the libido, and can reduce symptoms such as acne flare-ups and breast tenderness.
- Acupuncture supports the digestive system, which can ease the discomfort of indigestion, discourage overeating and food cravings, and lessen the frequency of bloating and water retention.
- Acupuncture treatments help regulate sleep and energy cycles, which can reduce instances of insomnia and sleep disturbances, as well as fatigue and tiredness, and increase mental energy and concentration.
Acupuncture treatments not only include needling, but also acupressure massage, cupping, scrapping, herbal remedies, and more. By focusing on restoring the body’s natural processes to a balanced state, you can feel better not only during PMS and menstruation, but throughout the month. Acupuncture is a holistic practice that aims to look at the big picture, which can benefit all systems instead of just targeting one.Are You Interested?
Our acupuncturists in Richmond, BC, have years of experience treating different common and rare conditions. They have a comprehensive view of the menstrual cycle from both a Traditional Chinese Medicine standpoint, as well as through the lens of modern health and wellness. Our licensed practitioners are able to customize a personal care plan that fits your needs throughout the month, and our clinic can give you a safe and supportive environment to help you heal and reconnect with your body. If you’re interested, book a session today and see the difference that Acupuncture can make in your life, with PMS symptoms, and beyond!
