Hormones play a crucial role in a woman's body. They regulate the menstrual cycle, fertility, mood, and other significant aspects of the female body. When hormones are out of balance, various issues can arise. These include premenstrual syndrome (PMS), irregular cycles, severe mood swings, and more. Acupuncture helps balance these hormones, reducing or completely eliminating hormonal complaints. A common sentiment we often hear is, "I wish I had done this sooner."
What are some common hormonal complaints?
The following complaints are common, although they are not always easy to identify. For instance, fatigue or poor sleep isn't always quickly associated with a hormonal issue. As a result, many women live with hormonal complaints for extended periods.
- Menstrual complaints, PMS, PCOS
- Menopause complaints
- Irregular cycles Fertility issues
- Headache complaints
- Stress and tension
- Lack of energy, listlessness
Balancing hormones with acupuncture
Acupuncture works with energy pathways (meridians) in the body. A blockage or imbalance in the flow of this energy can lead to health problems, both physical and mental. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), a hormonal imbalance often results from a disruption in life energy, also known as Qi. By applying acupuncture needles, the flow of energy is stimulated, and balance can be restored. This helps bring hormones and the organs that regulate and produce these hormones into balance, thereby reducing complaints.
Acupuncture can also improve blood circulation. Good blood circulation is essential for the transport of hormones throughout the body and ensures that the organs involved in hormone production function correctly. By stimulating specific acupuncture points, acupuncture can enhance blood flow to the organs and glands, thereby supporting hormonal processes.
Read further to understand how acupuncture works with the most common hormonal complaints.
How does acupuncture help with menstrual complaints?
Many women suffer from troublesome menstrual complaints. Think about a very painful period (dysmenorrhea), heavy bleeding, or an irregular cycle. Acupuncture can help reduce these complaints by promoting good blood circulation, relaxing muscles, and reducing inflammation. In doing so, acupuncture can decrease the frequency and severity of menstrual complaints.
How does acupuncture help with PMS (premenstrual syndrome)?
If you experience many complaints in the days (or sometimes even weeks) before menstruation, you may be dealing with premenstrual syndrome, better known as PMS. PMS can cause both physical and emotional symptoms, such as mood swings, irritability, sensitive breasts, fatigue, and more. Acupuncture can help regulate the hormonal fluctuations responsible for these symptoms. By stimulating specific acupuncture points, it can promote the production of endorphins and other neurotransmitters, thus reducing PMS symptoms. Many women experience significant relief when they have fewer issues with PMS.
How does acupuncture support fertility?
Hormones play an important role in a woman's fertility. They regulate egg production and ovulation. Hormones such as luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) play a significant role in coordinating these processes. Acupuncture can also be used as an adjunct treatment for fertility treatments like IUI and IVF. Through acupuncture, the blood circulation of the uterus is improved, and stress can be reduced, which is crucial for a healthy pregnancy. Besides treating the woman with acupuncture, the man can also be treated for reduced fertility.
Read more about acupuncture during pregnancy and fertility
Acupuncture can also have a positive influence on PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome), a condition characterized by hormonal imbalances, irregular menstruation, infertility, and other symptoms.
How does acupuncture help with menopause complaints?
During menopause, the female body undergoes hormonal changes that can be accompanied by symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, and sleep problems. By addressing both physical and emotional symptoms, acupuncture can support women and enhance their overall wellbeing during this life phase.
Read our extensive blog about acupuncture for menopause complaints
What can you do to maintain your hormonal balance? Our acupuncturists provide 4 tips
- Ensure healthy nutrition. Eat lots of fresh vegetables, fruits, whole grains, healthy fats, and proteins. Avoid or limit heavily processed foods, added sugars, and refined carbohydrates. These can disrupt blood sugar levels and cause hormonal fluctuations.
- Reduce stress. Chronic stress can negatively impact hormone balance. Seek ways to reduce stress, such as regular exercise, relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation, or breathing exercises.
- Regular exercise. Walk at least half an hour every day and engage in moderate to intense exercise a few times a week. Again, yoga can help promote the balance between Yin and Yang.
- Get enough sleep. Good night's rest is essential for a healthy hormone balance. Preferably go to bed at the same time every day and avoid screens or busy activities before going to sleep.
Our acupuncturists are ready to restore your hormonal balance
Do you finally want to get rid of your hormonal complaints? It really is possible! Come visit one of our acupuncture clinics in Breukelen, Hoofddorp, Nieuw-Vennep, Rijswijk / Delft, Voorburg or Wassenaar. Our experienced acupuncturists are more than happy to assist you.
