Acupuncture For Perimenopause

Acupuncture is an effective therapy for managing perimenopausal symptoms, helping women navigate a variety of discomforts associated with this transitional phase. This stage preceding menopause is often marked by symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, sleep disturbances, and fatigue due to hormonal changes and can start as early as mid 30’s. Kara Morton, L.Ac. has treated perimenopausal symptoms extensively in her practice and has received great results!

According to Chinese Medicine, perimenopause is associated with a decline in yin. Yin is the substance of blood and fluids and is responsible for cooling and moistening the body. When it becomes deficient, symptoms of heat can appear in the body and mind. This means that the delicate balance between yin substance and yang (moving, warming qi) is thrown off, and symptoms may begin to occur. Acupuncture works by promoting the balance between yin and yang, and reducing stress in both body and mind. There can also be dietary and lifestyle changes needed to make the transition a smoother process.

From a Western Medicine view, several studies show that acupuncture can be very effective in managing hot flashes. Research published in the Journal of the North American Menopause Society found that women who received acupuncture over an eight-week period experienced a significant reduction in the frequency and severity of hot flashes compared to those who did not undergo acupuncture. Additionally, a study in BMJ Open showed that acupuncture not only reduced hot flashes but also improved sleep quality and mood stability, highlighting its ability to help several of the most common perimenopausal symptoms.

One reason acupuncture can benefit perimenopausal women is its influence on the body’s hormonal regulation. Research indicates that acupuncture stimulates the production of endorphins and other neurotransmitters that promote relaxation and reduce stress, helping to mitigate mood swings and anxiety. By enhancing blood flow and reducing inflammation, acupuncture may also aid in relieving joint pain and improving energy levels, which are commonly affected during perimenopause.

Another advantage of acupuncture is how safe it is. Compared to hormone replacement therapy (HRT), which carries certain risks and side effects, acupuncture presents a no risk alternative. For women unable / unwilling to take HRT or to help with HRT’s effectiveness, acupuncture may serve as an invaluable treatment option.