Acupuncture for PMS, Painful Periods, & Pelvic Disorders
Well Woman Acupuncture in Boulder treats menstrual and pelvic disorders which are not only very common in reproductive and post-menopausal women, but also highly varying in their presentation. They can range in severity from mildly bothersome to severely painful and may have reproductive and / or pelvic integrity consequences. Examples of menstrual and pelvic disorders include:
Menstrual Disorders/PMS Symptoms
- Acne
- Breast Tenderness
- Headaches / Migraines
- Pre-menstrual Nausea / Digestive Upset
- Early Periods
- Late Periods
- Irregular Periods
- Heavy or Scanty Periods
- Menstrual Cramps
- PMS / PMDD
Pelvic Disorders
- Fibroids
- Ovarian Cysts
- Endometriosis
- Pelvic Pain
- Interstitial Cystitis / Frequent urination
- Scar Tissue / Infection
- Vaginal Discharge
- Pelvic Infections (HPV, Cervical Dysplasia, STD’s, cervicitis)
- Vaginal Infections (Candida, Bacterial Vaginosis)
Many menstrual conditions are treated with oral contraceptives (OCP’s) in reproductive- aged women or hormone replacement therapy (HRT ) in post-menopausal women, while pelvic abnormalities are frequently managed with surgery. However, due to the high occurrence of side effects, OCP and HRT use may be an undesirable option for many women. Likewise, surgical intervention is typically costly, requires longer recovery and may create unnecessary pain, which may lead some women to seek alternatives.
Chinese Medicine and Menstrual / Pelvic Conditions
Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) with Acupuncture is an excellent alternative when Western medical treatments are either ineffective or undesired. TCM has a long history of effectively treating menstrual and pelvic conditions and in many cases, the use of pharmaceutical drugs and/or surgery can be avoided altogether. It is often recommended that patients receive both acupuncture and herbal therapy, as they work in conjunction to achieve the desired results as quickly as possible.
How Acupuncture Can Help
By regulating the qi and the blood, and balancing the organs that influence the hormones, uterus, and ovaries, TCM & Acupuncture can help to restore normal menstruation and ovulation, lessen the symptoms of PMS and eliminate painful cramping. TCM can also be quite effective in managing endometriosis. Some pelvic disorders, such as smaller fibroids and certain types of ovarian cysts, can be fully resolved with regular TCM treatment in a matter of weeks, without surgical intervention. Finally, cases of dysfunctional uterine bleeding, such as can occur after menopause; can be resolved with TCM. In most cases, however, it is important that we work together with your physician to coordinate your care appropriately.