Acupuncture + Treating PMS

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) is a set of symptoms that occur 1-2 weeks before the onset of menses. They generally cease once the menstrual flow begins. Common symptoms include: irritability, abdominal bloating, fatigue, digestive issues, lower back pain, food cravings and insomnia. Ideally, a menses is bright red in color, pain-free and without any clots. Bleeding occurs 3-5 days without mood swings. In the West, PMS is accepted as a “natural” part of menstruation. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), however, sees the symptoms of PMS as an indication that the body is experiencing disharmony. Identifying the pattern of disharmony generally leads to effective treatments for PMS.

In TCM theory, emotions can have a significant impact on the body’s functioning. Stress, frustration and irritability - emotions commonly associated with PMS - obstruct the flow of qi and blood circulating in the body. Qi here is seen as the vital life force that flows through the acupuncture meridians. When qi and blood flow becomes obstructed, physical symptoms of PMS appear: menstrual pain, painful breasts, water retention, bloating, and loose bowel movements. Acupuncture + TCM work to restore the free flow of of qi and blood, relieving the emotional and physical symptoms of PMS.

How to Stay Balanced with TCM:

To prevent PMS and minimize stress, TCM emphasizes diet, exercise, herbs, and acupuncture.

Eating healthy and fresh food is a critical preventative method. Incorporating cooked, warm, and seasonal food during your cycle is key to building blood. It is essential to avoid raw food, cold drinks, alcohol, fatty red meats, preservatives, fried foods, chemicals, excess dairy products, overeating and eating when upset.

Aerobic exercise that raises the heart rate and respiration for 30 minutes each day prevents stasis of blood and qi. Deep relaxation is also vital. Muscular and cerebral relaxation - such as meditation - is also beneficial when practiced daily.

Chinese herbs, in conjunction with acupuncture, relieve acute symptoms and promote balance within the body to prevent recurrence of the condition. Herbs taken internally, are a consistent stimulus targeting the syndrome on a biochemical level.

Regular acupuncture treatment helps to direct the smooth flow of qi and blood throughout a menstrual cycle.