To mark menopause awareness month, I wanted to write a little bit about Acupuncture and the menopause. Menopause marks a significant transition in a woman's life, bringing with it a host of physical and emotional changes. As an acupuncturist here in Oxford, I often see patients seeking complementary therapies to manage the symptoms associated with this stage. Acupuncture, a cornerstone of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), offers a holistic approach that can complement conventional treatments and provide meaningful relief from menopausal discomforts.
Understanding Menopause Through the Lens of TCM
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, menopause is viewed as a natural shift in a woman's life, reflecting changes in the body’s vital energies and hormonal balance. TCM conceptualises the body in terms of "qi" (pronounced "chee"), which is the vital energy flowing through our meridians or energy channels. Menopause is seen as a period when the "Kidney Yin" (the body's essence) begins to wane, leading to imbalances that manifest as various symptoms.
Our goal as acupuncturists is to restore harmony and balance within the body, thus alleviating the symptoms that arise from these imbalances. By addressing the root causes of discomfort rather than merely masking symptoms, acupuncture aims to support the body’s natural ability to navigate this transition smoothly.
Common Symptoms and Acupuncture’s Role
1. Hot Flashes and Night Sweats: These are among the most frequent complaints during menopause. In TCM, hot flashes are often associated with "Yin Deficiency," where there’s a lack of cooling energy in the body. Acupuncture can help by stimulating points that restore Yin balance and calm the body’s heat. This can lead to a reduction in the frequency and severity of hot flashes and night sweats.
2. Mood Swings and Anxiety: Hormonal changes can lead to mood swings, anxiety, and even depression. Acupuncture helps regulate the body's emotional state by influencing neurotransmitter levels and promoting the flow of qi through the heart and liver meridians. By improving emotional balance and reducing stress, acupuncture supports mental well-being during menopause.
3. Sleep Disturbances: Insomnia and disrupted sleep patterns are common issues. Acupuncture helps by calming the mind and enhancing relaxation, often through points that influence the nervous system and promote better sleep. This can lead to improved sleep quality and more restorative rest.
4. Vaginal Dryness and Sexual Health: Vaginal dryness is another symptom related to hormonal changes. By improving blood flow and nourishing the body’s Yin, acupuncture can support vaginal health and alleviate discomfort.
5. Overall Vitality and Well-Being: Beyond treating specific symptoms, acupuncture aims to enhance overall vitality and resilience. By balancing qi and blood flow throughout the body, acupuncture helps support general health and well-being, making the menopausal transition smoother and more manageable.
Research
As an acupuncturist, I stay updated on current research and continuously refine my practice to ensure that it aligns with the latest findings.
Several studies have illustrated the effectiveness of acupuncture for menopause, including a recent randomised control trial showing significant improvements in symptoms, with benefits lasting over 6 months following treatment (Avis et al 2016). A meta-analysis by Chiu et al (2015) reviewed 12 different studies, noting significant improvements in hot flash frequency and severity. Importantly, there were also psychological and quality of life improvements too.
Acupuncture works best when integrated with other treatments and lifestyle changes, such as dietary adjustments, stress management techniques, and conventional medical care. Collaboration with other healthcare providers ensures a comprehensive approach to management of the menopause.
Diet
In Chinese Medicine, foods can also play a crucial role in helping to manage symptoms of the menopause. As the menopause is strongly linked to declining Kidney Yin, we look at foods that can help to increase Yin and cool the body. If you're a bean lover, you're in luck! One of the best ways to nourish Yin is via legumes, particularly black beans, kidney beans and mung beans. In addition, millet, spirulina and perhaps most importantly soy or tofu (a derivative of soy). Soy has been eaten for centuries in Asia, and there is evidence to suggest it may reduce menopausal symptoms.
In addition to nourishing the Kidney Yin, we also look at ways to cool the body, which can include trying to avoid foods or substances which generate heat. Hence, substances like alcohol (apologies!), smoking, caffeine, and excessive meat consumption can lead to an excess of heat in the body. Therefore, it is crucial to restrict these substances if symptoms are particularly severe.
Finally, ensuring there is adequate vitamin intake is also very important. There are various menopause vitamin supplements which are available if you feel your intake is lacking.
To sum up
Acupuncture offers a valuable, holistic approach to managing menopausal symptoms by addressing both physical and emotional aspects of this transition. From reducing hot flashes to improving mood and sleep, acupuncture aims to restore balance and support overall well-being. I have achieved significant success in assisting women through menopause, promoting increased comfort and ease by combining traditional methods with modern approaches to deliver comprehensive holistic care.
References:
Avis NE, Coeytaux RR, Isom S, Prevette K, Morgan T. Acupuncture in Menopause (AIM) study: a pragmatic, randomized controlled trial. Menopause. 2016 Jun;23(6):626-37
Chiu HY, Pan CH, Shyu YK, Han BC, Tsai PS. Effects of acupuncture on menopause-related symptoms and quality of life in women in natural menopause: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Menopause. 2015 Feb; 22(2): p. 234-244.
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