What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a form of alternative medicine and a component of traditional Chinese medicine in which thin needles are inserted into the body.
How is gynaecological acupuncture done?
The acupuncture treatment is done by special needles applied to the special points in the body.
The needles are stimulating local points, promoting cellular and intercellular communication within meridians and finally entering special structures in the spinal cord and limbic system in the brain.
What are the gynaecological problems that acupuncture can help with?
- Dysmenorrhea (menstrual pain)
- Perimenopausal symptoms like hot flushes and articulation pain
- Menstrual cycle irregularity
- Menstrual disorders
- Infertility
- Uterine myomatosis (fibroids)
- Migraines, anxiety and early menopause
- Emotional disorders
- Fibrocystic masthopaty
- Abnormally heavy menstrual flow
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Vaginal bleeding between periods
- Acute or chronic fatigue
- PCOS
Acupuncture is not a treatment by itself but can be a very efficient part in a treatment plan designed by your gynaecologist.
Downtime
Pain and sensitivity in the needled area is normal within the 24-48 hours following the treatment, fatigue and body pain may also be present but should not last beyond the mentioned time. Keep hydrated before and after the treatment and stay away from strenuous activities in the following few days after the treatment.
What to expect after the treatment?
There are several reactions to the treatment. In most cases, a radical improvement is shown after the first session and many gynaecological issues can be treated from one session only. On the other hand, the patient can feel pain after the treatment and the several days following it with improvements in the condition occurring gradually.
Statistically, 10% of the population will not react to acupuncture for an unknown reason.
Does acupuncture have side effects?
As with any treatment, acupuncture may cause side effects in some individuals. Side effects may include:
- Pain and bleeding from the needle insertion
- Skin rash
- Dizziness
- Bruising around the area the needles were placed