Manage your reproductive health through acupuncture.
Even the most regular and uncomplicated period can be a dreaded and uncomfortable time of the month for women. The unpredictability of an irregular period adds to the stress and discomfort and can even lead to long-term health consequences, including fertility issues. Periods are typically considered irregular if they occur less than every 21 days and more than every 35 days. Irregular periods may also be longer in duration, more painful, or unusually heavy.
If you experience irregular periods, it is crucial to get to the bottom of the causes so any underlying conditions can be addressed. Common treatments for irregular periods typically include various forms of hormone therapy, but these approaches tend to be less effective over time and can have unwanted side effects. Dr. Aleksandra Mihajlovic can help determine whether acupuncture can aid in bringing your cycle to a more regular cadence. In addition, whether your period is normal or irregular, acupuncture can alleviate the common symptoms of cramping, poor mood, and fatigue.
Why is my period irregular?
Several factors can dysregulate your cycle. Irregular periods may result from another condition, such as endometriosis or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Hormonal factors and stress can also be contributing factors. When hormones are out of balance, communication between the brain and reproductive organs can be hindered. As women age, blood flow to the reproductive organs may also decrease, resulting in an irregular cycle.
How can acupuncture help me have regular periods?
A body of research supports the effectiveness of acupuncture in treating irregular periods, in addition to promoting overall reproductive health and fertility. Acupuncture stimulates blood flow to the reproductive organs and regulates the release of various hormones. First, acupuncture increases the release of reproductive hormones that regulate the menstrual cycle. At the same time, acupuncture can decrease the release of stress hormones that dysregulate the menstrual cycle. In particular, acupuncture acts on the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian (HPO) axis, which controls ovulation and menstruation. Dysregulation of the HPO is often a cause or contributing factor to a dysregulated cycle.
What is acupuncture treatment for periods like?
Dr. Aleksandra will ask questions about your cycle to understand better what may be causing your irregular period. The length of the cycle, the color of blood, heaviness of the flow, pain, and other factors can point to the source of dysregulation that acupuncture can address. Noticeable effects will occur after several sessions, and ongoing treatment may be necessary to keep the cycle regular.
If you have been experiencing irregular periods and want to explore how acupuncture may provide some relief, we're here to help. Contact us for an in-office consultation where you can get expert and personalized treatment. Contact us today to learn more about how acupuncture can help an irregular period.
