Introduction
Period pain, scientifically known as dysmenorrhea, can significantly disrupt the daily lives of many women, causing frustration and discomfort. Fortunately, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), which includes acupuncture, offers a natural and comprehensive solution to effectively manage this condition.
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The Effectiveness of Acupuncture
acupuncture period pain
A recent study published in the Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Research has confirmed that acupuncture is an effective treatment for primary dysmenorrhea. Moreover, acupuncture has been shown to have fewer side effects compared to conventional pain medication.
Understanding Traditional Chinese Medicine Approach
In TCM, period pain is often attributed to an imbalance of Qi, the body’s vital energy. Qualified practitioners assess patients to identify the root cause of their symptoms before creating a personalized treatment plan tailored to address their unique needs. This plan may include acupuncture, herbal medicine, and other TCM modalities.
Acupuncture for Period Pain Relief
Acupuncture is a cornerstone of TCM therapy, aimed at rebalancing Qi and alleviating period pain. Treatment typically involves multiple sessions over several weeks, with fine needles inserted into specific acupuncture points to stimulate Qi flow. These sessions offer patients a chance to relax and experience relief from discomfort.
Commonly used acupuncture points for period pain
Acupuncture points targeting period pain are strategically located on the lower abdomen, lower back, and legs. These points, including Zigong, Sanyinjiao, and Guanyuan, work to regulate the uterus, promote blood circulation, and alleviate menstrual pain.
Exploring Chinese Herbal Medicine
Chinese herbal medicine
In addition to acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine plays a vital role in managing period pain. Herbs like dong quai, chuan xiong, and bupleurum are known to regulate Qi and blood flow, offering relief from discomfort. Herbal formulas such as Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan and Xiao Yao Wan are commonly prescribed to promote blood circulation, regulate menstruation, and alleviate pain and cramping.
Other Natural Remedies
Beyond acupuncture and herbal medicine, lifestyle adjustments can also help manage dysmenorrhea symptoms. Advice on diet, exercise, and stress management can complement acupuncture sessions and promote overall well-being.
Conclusion
TCM offers a holistic and personalised approach to managing dysmenorrhea, addressing the root causes of pain and discomfort. If you or someone you know is experiencing period pain, consider exploring the benefits of acupuncture and Chinese medicine.
Almond Wellness Centre acupuncture clinics in Melbourne provides natural holistic treatment options that can help alleviate the pain and discomfort associated with dysmenorrhea.
As each person is different, if you or someone you care about is dysmenorrhoea period pain, and would like to explore the potential benefits of Chinese medicine acupuncture, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Our fully qualified registered acupuncture Chinese medicine practitioners in both Coburg Chinese medicine clinic and Ringwood Chinese medicine clinic are here to provide information and assistance. We will assess your specific condition, take into account your medical history, and develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs.
References
Liu, Z., Liu, Y., Xu, H., He, L., & Chen, Z. (2018). Acupuncture for primary dysmenorrhea: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Research, 44(6), 1014-1023. doi: 10.1111/jog.13631.
Armour, M. (2015). The effectiveness of acupuncture in the treatment of primary dysmenorrhea : a mixed methods study.
Mike Armour, etl July 12 2017. The role of treatment timing and mode of stimulation in the treatment of primary dysmenorrhea with acupuncture: An exploratory randomised controlled trial.
V. Iorno,etl. Acupuncture Treatment of Dysmenorrhea Resistant to Conventional Medical Treatment. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2008 Jun; 5(2): 227–230.
Acupuncture for dysmenorrhoea. Smith CA, etl.Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2016 Apr 18;
Zhu X, Hamilton KD, McNicol ED. Acupuncture for pain in endometriosis. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2018;5(5):CD012617. doi: 10.1002/14651858.CD012617.pub2.
Chiu HY, Pan CH, Shyu YK, et al. Effectiveness of acupuncture in women with polycystic ovarian syndrome undergoing in vitro fertilisation or intracytoplasmic sperm injection: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Acupunct Med. 2020;38(1):17-28. doi: 10.1177/0964528419878323.
Smith CA, Armour M, Zhu X, Li X, Lu ZY, Song J. Acupuncture for dysmenorrhoea. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2016;4(4):CD007854. doi: 10.1002/14651858.CD007854.pub3.
Lian F, Li Y, Xie RJ, Wang J, Zhang Y, Bai J. Effects of Chinese medicine for promoting blood circulation and removing blood stasis in treating patients with dysmenorrhea: a systematic review. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2016;2016:8582727. doi: 10.1155/2016/8582727.
Shi GX, Yang XM, Liu CZ, et al. Acupuncture for chronic low back pain: a multicenter, randomized, patient-assessor blind, sham-controlled clinical trial. Spine (Phila Pa 1976). 2019;44(8):592-601. doi: 10.1097/BRS.0000000000002885.