One of our regular patients recently asked today, “Hey Dr. Zeng, can I still get acupuncture when I’m on my period? Will it mess things up?”
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The safety of acupuncture during menstruation has always been a hot topic. For women dealing with period problems like cramps, irregular cycles, or trouble getting pregnant, acupuncture can be a game-changer. But some folks worry that because acupuncture gets things moving, it might throw off their flow, leading to heavier bleeding or wonky cycles. That’s why some say it’s best to skip acupuncture during your period.
What the Research Says
A study from 2016 called “Thinking About Acupuncture During Your Period” in the “Acupuncture Research” journal weighed in on this. They found that based on lots of real-world experience and the latest in acupuncture know-how, there’s no hard-and-fast rule against acupuncture during your period. Those claims about acupuncture messing with your cycle? Turns out, they don’t have much solid evidence backing them up.
In my opinion, getting acupuncture while you’re on your period won’t cause any surprises or extra harm if you’re in good health. Acupuncture works by kickstarting your body’s self-repair systems to help it heal. It’s all about bringing balance back to your body, so it only does its thing when things are out of whack. If everything’s already humming along smoothly, acupuncture won’t shake things up.
What to Keep in Mind
Those claims about acupuncture throwing your period out of whack? They’re probably not legit. But for some folks, acupuncture might feel a bit different when they’re on their period. If you’re getting acupuncture during Aunt Flo’s visit, just make sure:
Your acupuncturist picks the right spots.
They go easy on the needle action to avoid overdoing it.
Bottom Line
For the most part, going for acupuncture during your period is A-OK. If you’re thinking about it, team up with a seasoned acupuncturist and clue them in on your cycle and how you’re feeling. That way, you’ll make sure your session is safe and effective.
Acupuncture during your period isn’t usually a problem for your health. But to play it safe, your acupuncturist should use gentle techniques and pick the right spots. So, teaming up with a pro and sharing a bit about your cycle is a smart move.
Have you ever noticed a bit of spotting in the middle of your menstrual cycle, or even experienced what feels like “two periods” in one month? Well, that’s what we call “ovulation bleeding.” And guess what? Acupuncture and Chinese medicine might just have some insights into it!
Understanding Ovulation Bleeding:
Hanging Out with Hormones: Around days 14-16 of your cycle, you might see some spotting or light bleeding. This is due to the hormonal rollercoaster ride, especially the drop in estrogen after ovulation. It triggers a mini-shedding of the endometrium, resulting in light bleeding. You might even experience mild tummy cramps as a bonus.
What to Expect:
It’s not a full-on period; the bleeding is less than your regular flow.
The color might be dark red or brown, sometimes with a bit of mucus.
You might feel some mild cramping.
The good news? It usually calms down on its own after ovulation.
Handling It:
Most of the time, there’s no need to stress. But if the bleeding is more than you’d like, your doc might suggest a low-dose estrogen or short-acting contraceptives.
When Things Get Complicated:
If the bleeding seems excessive, it could signal other issues like hormonal imbalances or structural quirks. It’s a good idea to consult your doc for a closer look and some targeted care.
Exploring Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture:
TCM’s Perspective on Ovulation Bleeding: In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), acupuncture takes centre stage to balance your qi, blood, and overall well-being.
Fun Strategies:
Boosting Qi and Blood Flow: Target spots like ST36, GV4, and CV4 to keep things flowing smoothly.
Warming Up the Body: Points like BL20, BL23, and CV4 help kick cold vibes to the curb.
Harmonising Yin and Yang: Specific points help balance the yin and yang energies.
Supporting the Spleen and Kidneys: Hit BL20 and BL23 to give these organs some love and address any deficiencies.
Double Nutrition Power: SP10 and CV6 points work together to nourish both qi and blood for a balanced boost.
Bridging TCM with Western Medicine:
Feeling intrigued by acupuncture and Chinese medicine for your ovulation bleeding? Why not chat with your gynaecologist and our TCM pro at Almond Wellness Centre? It’s like getting the best of both worlds—ancient wisdom and modern know-how.
Your body gets the care it deserves, and you get to explore what works best for you.
Prepare for a groundbreaking revelation in the realm of healthcare! A recent study conducted in Taiwan has unveiled the extraordinary potential of acupuncture in reducing the risk of ischaemic strokes among individuals grappling with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA).
Study Insights
Strategic Objective:
The primary aim of this study was to establish acupuncture as a preventive measure against ischaemic strokes for those combating RA.
Methodical Approach:
Researchers meticulously analyzed data from over 23,000 individuals newly diagnosed with RA, spanning the period from 1997 to 2010. The treasure trove of information was extracted from the National Health Insurance Research Database.
Key Finding:
The revelation is nothing short of extraordinary – individuals opting for acupuncture treatment showcased a significantly lower incidence of ischaemic strokes compared to their counterparts who did not opt for such therapy (log-rank test, p<0.001).
Statistical Snapshot:
Post a sophisticated matching process, the group availing acupuncture reported 341 stroke cases (5.95 per 1000 person-years), while the non-acupuncture group recorded 605 cases (12.4 per 1000 person-years). The adjusted Subhazard Ratio (SHR) underscored a noteworthy 0.57 (95% CI 0.50 to 0.65).
Universality of Impact:
Encouragingly, the positive influence of acupuncture extended across various demographic variables, including age, gender, and existing health conditions.
Implications and Future Exploration:
Significance Clarified:
By tapping into the expansive National Health Insurance Research Database, this study elevates acupuncture beyond pain management, positioning it as a formidable guardian against ischaemic strokes in RA patients.
On the Horizon:
The study not only beckons attention to the immediate benefits but also beckons further exploration. Could acupuncture emerge as a sustained ally for those navigating the complexities of RA in the long run? This opens avenues for redefining the management paradigm for this challenging arthritic condition.
Conclusion:
This study marks a pivotal moment, transcending the conventional understanding of acupuncture. It stands as a testament to the potential synergy between traditional practices and modern healthcare, providing a new perspective on safeguarding individuals grappling with RA from the perils of debilitating strokes.
In the Limelight:
News outlets are ablaze with discussions surrounding this groundbreaking study, heralding a paradigm shift in healthcare dynamics. Acupuncture is poised not merely as a therapeutic technique but as a transformative force in reshaping the narrative of health management.
As fertility/pregnancy acupuncture practitioners Almond Wellness Centre in Melbourne, we’ve had the incredible privilege of witnessing the profound impact acupuncture can have during the third trimester of pregnancy. This stage is like the grand finale before the big birthing show – a time of immense change, both physically and emotionally.
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Let’s talk about how acupuncture becomes this magical, holistic support system that not only guides expectant mothers through the final stretch but also turns the birthing experience into something positively extraordinary.
Breech Baby:
Around weeks 34~35, we play the pivotal game of figuring out baby’s position. When things go breech or transverse, that’s when acupuncture and moxibustion take centre stage.
Picture this: a little bit of mugwort herb gently encouraging the baby to do a 180 and get into the head-down position. Studies have shown that this combo, recommended by the birthing experts, has promising success rates. In fact, a Cochrane Library research piece spilled the tea on moxibustion, revealing its potential to turn breech babies.
The outcome? Reduced breech presentations at birth. A win-win that potentially dodges more invasive interventions.
Getting Ready for Labor:
As you hit weeks 36-37, acupuncture treatments become a pregnant person’s best friend. It’s like giving your body a pep talk for the big day. These sessions aren’t just about getting the baby in prime position; they’re about triggering that natural oxytocin release and addressing any pregnancy discomforts like lower back pain or anxiety. Research is totally on board with this, showing us that this approach leads to reduced interventions and improved cervical maturity. It’s like giving your body a VIP pass to the birthing party.
Acupuncture Labor Induction or Preparation?
As we inch closer to week 39 and beyond, acupuncture takes on a whole new role. If the body’s all prepped and ready, it can gently nudge labor along. We’re not talking about forcing things – it’s more like giving nature a little high-five when everything’s just right. And if conditions aren’t quite there yet, acupuncture’s got your back. It refocuses on positioning, cervical readiness, and oxytocin production, prepping the body for labor or easing the way into medical induction.
Labor Pain Relief and Contractions on Cue:
When labor finally kicks in, acupuncture waltzes onto the scene offering fantastic pain relief and boosting those contractions. While it’s not exactly the star of the show in Melbourne hospitals, acupressure techniques come in as the trusty sidekick. In our world as a fertility and perinatal care acupuncturists, we guide expectant parents in unleashing the power of acupressure points for pain management and labor support.
A Symphony of Birthing Support:
Acupuncture in the third trimester isn’t just about kickstarting contractions; it’s a whole symphony of support. We’re talking optimal positioning, cervical readiness, and a natural flow for the birthing process.
The stories of subtle shifts and profound transformations witnessed in pregnant patients undergoing acupuncture are a testament to the ancient wisdom packed into those tiny needles. Embracing acupuncture during the third trimester isn’t just about getting ready for labor; it’s about creating a birthing experience that’s nurturing, empowering, and uniquely yours.
Questions about pregnancy acupuncture? Curious to dive deeper?
Reach out, and let’s chat. Whether you’re in Melbourne’s northern or eastern suburbs, at Almond Wellness Centre, we’re here to support you on this beautiful journey.
Here’s to the magic of acupuncture and the extraordinary journey ahead!
在月经期间接受针灸治疗是否安全？月经来了是否应该避免针灸？
在月经期间接受针灸治疗是否安全？月经来了是否应该避免针灸？
