Many women dread their monthly cycle due to painful cramps. Period pain (also known as dysmenorrhea) impacts as many as 45% to 95% of menstruating women, as stated in a report from the journal Human Reproduction Update.
If you struggle to get through the day or sleep through the night because of painful menstrual cramps, acupuncture provides Scarborough women with lasting relief and makes every period comfortable.
Yes, acupuncture offers Scarborough women a natural alternative to conventional pain relief methods.
In 2017, Dr. Mike Armour from Western Sydney University in Australia, along with colleagues from the University of Auckland in New Zealand and Australia, conducted a study on acupuncture’s effectiveness for menstrual cramps. Their study found that acupuncture can reduce the severity and duration of period pain. The researchers were surprised to find that manual acupuncture could decrease period pain by up to 50%. Women who had acupuncture treatments more often experienced greater improvements in period pain intensity, associated symptoms, and overall quality of life. Their research was published in PLOS One. However, they acknowledge that more extensive studies are needed to create detailed and reliable guidelines for using acupuncture to manage period pain. “Pragmatic trials of acupuncture have shown a reduction in pain intensity and an improvement in quality of life in women with period pain. However, evidence has been limited for how changing the ‘dosage’ of acupuncture might affect the outcome,” according to Dr. Armour.
Here’s how acupuncture can help alleviate period pain:
Acupuncture can help balance hormones like estrogen and progesterone, which may lessen period pain and related symptoms like bloating and mood swings. This can make menstrual cycles more comfortable and less painful.
Acupuncture stimulates specific points in the body, known as acupuncture points, which can trigger the release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers. These endorphins help to block pain signals and reduce the perception of pain, providing significant relief for women during their menstrual cycles. Additionally, acupuncture may also modulate the pain pathways in the brain, further decreasing the intensity of menstrual cramps.
Inflammation is a common factor in period pain, contributing to swelling and discomfort in the pelvic area. Acupuncture has been found to have potent anti-inflammatory effects, which can help alleviate swelling and reduce pain associated with menstrual cramps. It targets inflammation at its source, providing effective relief for women experiencing period pain.
Acupuncture treatments can enhance blood circulation throughout the body, including the pelvic region. Improved blood flow helps to relax muscles, reduce tension, and alleviate cramping during menstruation. Acupuncture promotes better circulation, supporting overall menstrual health and reducing the severity of period pain for Scarborough women.
Regular acupuncture for menstrual cramps can help ease fatigue and hormonal acne during a woman’s period. It might also improve sleep and reduce mood swings as the body and mind’s energy align.
Yes, it can! Acupuncture helps with period pain and can also help regulate periods for women with irregular cycles. This traditional Chinese medicine technique affects your monthly periods in 5 ways:
Menstrual cycle occurs due to the complex interaction of hormones in your body. Acupuncture in Scarborough can boost these hormone levels, depending on when you have treatment during your cycle.
Acupuncture treatment can happen at any time during your cycle. How it works for period pain depends on what you want to achieve. A woman’s menstrual cycle has four parts: menstruation, follicular, ovulation, and luteal. Acupuncture’s effects vary depending on when you get treatment.
During this phase, the uterus lining sheds, and you have your period. Acupuncture during menstruation boosts circulation in the reproductive area. This helps with shedding, reduces cramps, and eases symptoms like headaches, nausea, and diarrhea.
Now, estrogen rises, thickening the uterus lining. Acupuncture increases blood flow to the uterus and ovaries. This helps thicken the lining more and develop egg cells.
You’re fertile now. Body temperature rises, cervical mucus increases and an egg is released. Acupuncture during ovulation boosts body temperature and helps release the egg.
Progesterone rises, thickening the uterus lining further. It’s preparing for implantation if the egg is fertilized.
In most cases, you might notice your symptoms getting better within a month of starting treatment. This improvement tends to continue during the following menstrual cycles. Acupuncturists suggest coming in once a week during your first cycle of treatment, and then adjusting as needed based on how you’re feeling. They will talk with you about creating a plan that fits your needs.
In addition to acupuncture in Scarborough, there are several lifestyle strategies that Scarborough women can incorporate to help manage period pain:
Consuming a balanced diet plays a crucial role in managing period pain. Incorporate plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains into your meals to provide essential nutrients that support overall health and hormonal balance. Additionally, consider reducing your intake of processed foods, caffeine, and sugary treats, as these can exacerbate inflammation and worsen symptoms.
Engaging in regular physical activity is beneficial for managing period pain. Activities such as walking, yoga, or swimming can help alleviate stress, improve mood, and promote circulation, which may reduce the severity of menstrual cramps and discomfort. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week to experience the full benefits.
Stress can exacerbate period pain, so it’s essential to practice relaxation techniques to reduce tension and promote overall well-being. Deep breathing exercises, meditation, and mindfulness practices are effective methods for managing stress levels. Incorporate these techniques into your daily routine to help alleviate anxiety and promote a sense of calm during your menstrual cycle.
Applying a warm compress or heating pad to the lower abdomen can provide immediate relief from menstrual cramps. The warmth helps to relax the muscles, alleviate pain, and promote relaxation. Consider using a warm compress for 10-15 minutes at a time, several times a day, or as needed to ease discomfort during your period. Additionally, taking a warm bath or using a hot water bottle can offer similar benefits for soothing period pain.
PARC of Ontario offers acupuncture treatment to help Scarborough women reclaim control over their menstrual health. If you’re interested in exploring acupuncture for period pain relief, give us a call at (905) 579-9938 to schedule a consultation today.
Don’t let period pain hold you back any longer—take the first step towards a pain-free future with acupuncture.
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