Period Pain Relief And Acupuncture

Do You Dread Your Monthly Cycle Because of the Pain?

Many of us suffer from painful periods, have to take time off work, curl up on the bathroom floor because the pain is so unbearable, and experience severe pain down our legs, making it hard to stand up straight. You might be unaware of the effective natural remedies that can make your periods more comfortable.

In my practice as an acupuncturist at Galway Acupuncture Hub, I’ve seen many women transition from taking maximum doses of painkillers during their periods to using little or none, just by implementing a few simple strategies.

Understanding Menstrual Cramps

I’m going to give you the perspective from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), where excessive menstrual pain is considered a condition of “stagnation.” Stagnation equates to pain and also refers to a lack of energy flowing through the uterus. With menstrual cramps, stagnation is thought to lodge in the lower abdomen and become irritated or activated when the body tries to start shedding tissue.

The reason you suffer through cramps lies in the fact that your uterus must shed its natural lining each month—a process that requires your uterine muscle to contract. As it contracts, blood vessels that supply the uterus become constricted, which reduces blood flow and results in pain. For some women, the hormonal changes that trigger menstruation may be more pronounced, causing the uterus to contract overzealously—and more painfully.

Top Strategies to Ease Menstrual Pain

1. Supplement Yourself

Take calcium and magnesium supplements throughout the month, as these nutrients work together to aid muscle relaxation. Aim for about 1000mg of calcium daily and up to 500mg of magnesium. Opt for calcium citrate for better absorption.

2. Try a Tea

Raspberry leaf is a mild uterine tonic. Drink a cup of raspberry leaf tea each day throughout the month.

3. Eat More Greens

Dark leafy greens are rich in magnesium, calcium, and other micronutrients essential for mediating muscle contractions. In Chinese dietary therapy, these vegetables are considered mildly cleansing, which helps alleviate “stagnation.”

4. Cut Down on Coffee

Caffeine, especially from coffee, is a known vasoconstrictor. Reducing your coffee intake before your period might lessen the cramps.

5. Apply Heat

Applying heat is a simple tried and true way to reduce muscle spasms. A heat pad or a hot water bottle can provide immediate relief.

6. Try Acupuncture

Certain acupuncture points help regulate the pain and relax the nervous system, calming muscular contractions. Studies show that acupuncture is as effective as over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medicines for reducing pain.

7. Use Clary Calm Essential Oil

ClaryCalm is a proprietary blend created specifically for women. It includes essential oils like Clary Sage, Lavender, Bergamot, and others, all known to help regulate the menstrual cycle and can be used on acupuncture points for full effectiveness.

Or, try the Women’s Health Kit to regulate hormones.

The Role of Acupuncture in Managing Menstrual Cramps

Acupuncture, a key component of Traditional Chinese Medicine, involves inserting thin needles into specific body points to stimulate energy flow and promote healing. This ancient practice can significantly alleviate the pain and discomfort associated with menstrual cramps.

How Does Acupuncture Help?

• Improves Blood Flow: Acupuncture can enhance circulation within the abdominal organs, allowing blood to flow freely and without discomfort.
• Relaxes Muscles: By reducing muscle tension, acupuncture effectively treats menstrual cramps and related reproductive health issues.
• Balances Hormones: It helps in regulating hormonal imbalances that exacerbate menstrual pain.
• Reduces Stress: Acupuncture can stimulate the release of endorphins like serotonin, reducing pain signals in the brain and improving mood.

Research Supporting Acupuncture for Menstrual Cramps

Recent studies, including those conducted by Australian researchers, have tested the effectiveness of acupuncture treatments in relieving period pain. A study published in the journal PLOS One involved 74 adult women who reported significant improvements in pain intensity and quality of life after receiving acupuncture treatments.

How Acupuncture Supports You Through Each Menstrual Phase

During the menstrual phase, acupuncture is particularly beneficial. It encourages your body to increase circulation to facilitate the shedding of the uterine lining and helps relieve secondary symptoms like headaches, diarrhea, and nausea. Getting treatment during this time can make your period more bearable by easing the pain and discomfort typically associated with this phase.

Follicular Phase

The follicular phase begins after your menstrual period ends and lasts until ovulation occurs. During this time, many women experience a decrease in discomfort and pain. Acupuncture treatment in this phase can help boost your mood by increasing serotonin production, which is vital for feeling good and staying balanced. It also supports any sleep patterns and digestive issues arising from hormonal imbalances, setting a positive tone for the rest of your cycle.

Luteal Phase

The luteal phase starts right after ovulation and continues until just before your next menstrual period begins. This is when progesterone rises, and an imbalance between progesterone and estrogen can lead to premenstrual syndrome (PMS) as well as cramping during the period. Acupuncture during this phase has proven beneficial for addressing PMS-related problems such as cramps or headaches that typically occur before the period starts or during ovulation. It helps regulate hormones and relax muscles, leading to decreased discomfort associated with PMS symptoms.

Furthermore, the treatment reduces bloating and increases circulation throughout your body, including areas where there might be inflammation, cramping, or other PMS-related issues like headaches, mood swings, or sore breasts. It also helps balance hormones leading up to menstruation, reducing symptoms like anxiety, irritability, or depression.

Choosing Acupuncture: What to Consider

Ensure you choose a trained and licensed acupuncturist like us at Galway Acupuncture Hub. Working with us will also help you figure out the best timing for your acupuncture treatments, which can significantly enhance their effectiveness.

Conclusion

While acupuncture offers a promising solution for many who suffer from menstrual cramps, it is part of a broader approach that includes lifestyle and dietary changes. If these measures aren’t enough to improve your quality of life, an acupuncturist can offer further refinement of natural strategies. Remember, excessively painful menstruation can be a sign of a more serious underlying medical issue. It is crucial to consult your GP to ensure these possibilities are addressed.

If you’ve been struggling with painful periods but don’t want to rely solely on medication, consider trying acupuncture. Book a FREE consultation with our experts today! This natural treatment can be combined with essential oils and the right supplements as well as any recommendations from your doctor. While it isn’t a guaranteed cure-all for all types of menstrual pain, many people have found significant relief from their symptoms through regular sessions with a certified acupuncturist.

Acupuncture is a safe, effective, and holistic approach to managing menstrual discomfort. By addressing not just the symptoms but also the root causes of menstrual pain, acupuncture offers a deeply therapeutic solution that promotes overall health and well-being while supporting your immunity. With regular treatments tailored to your body’s needs, you could experience a dramatic improvement in your menstrual health. Why not give it a try and see how much better your monthly cycles can be? Remember, you deserve to live without pain and discomfort—acupuncture might just be the key to unlocking a more comfortable and joyful life.