How Acupuncture Can Help Relieve Menstrual Cramps

For a significant percentage of women within their child-bearing years, the menstrual period is one of the most dreaded occurrences in their lives. The days are characterized by insanely painful cramps that can render them incapacitated. Many women rely on painkillers to ease menstrual pain and allow them to go about their daily activities. What if there was an alternative to painkillers that would offer you long-term relief for menstrual cramps?

Acupuncture is a form of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that has been around for decades. It has been used to treat a variety of conditions, one of them being painful menstrual periods.

Acupuncture and Menstrual Cramps

Acupuncture treatment involves the insertion of needles at specific parts of the body known as acupressure points. The needles stimulate the self-healing system of the body. In the case of menstrual cramps management, the acupuncturist inserts the needs at specific acupressure points to promote energy flow and boost the self-healing properties of the body. As a result, the body releases endorphins which boost blood flow, reduce pain, and positively change the brain’s activity.

Is Acupuncture Painful?

It is important to point out that the use of needles on the skin does not result in pain. The needles are extra-thin, and they slightly prick the skin without drawing blood or causing discomfort. However, one may experience a slight dull ache at the base of the insertion point. Additionally, the needles generate a slight tingling feeling that eventually causes relaxation and relief to the patient. The sensation is always brief and bearable even for first-time acupuncture patients.

Benefits of Acupuncture

As aforementioned, acupuncture is effective in alleviating menstrual cramps. Acupuncture not only relieves the intensity of menstrual pain, but it also sustains the improvements up to months or even a year after consistent treatment. What’s more, it also relieves secondary menstrual symptoms such as bloating, breast tenderness, headaches, back pain, fatigue, and emotional changes. Besides addressing menstrual issues, acupuncture may also alleviate stress.

Acupuncture Treatment Period

For you to realize long-term relief from menstrual cramps, your acupuncturist will recommend a specified period within which you should get treatment. Most patients achieve a significant reduction of their menstrual pain after just a few weeks or months of getting acupuncture in New Brighton. The specialist will advise accordingly depending on the severity and duration of menstrual pain.

Menstrual pain and other secondary symptoms associated with periods are not something that a woman should endure. Talk to an acupuncture New Brighton specialist so they can help you start the journey towards cramps-free menstrual periods. Additionally, remember to be consistent in treatment if you wish to realize long term benefits.