Montpelier and Williston Acupuncturists at Integrative Acupuncture are specialists in treating women’s health. We utilize acupuncture, herbs, massage and nutrition to create a holistic treatment plan to bring balance to a woman’s menstrual cycle.
What Causes PMS?
Premenstrual syndrome is a collection of symptoms experienced by women anywhere from 2 weeks to a day prior to the start of the menses. Symptoms may include breast tenderness, irritability, bloating, mood swings, food cravings, fatigue and/or depression. There are also physical symptoms of PMS including joint pains, acne flare ups, diarrhea or constipation. It is estimated 75% of women experience some type of PMS with every period.
When symptoms become disabling the syndrome is called premenstrual dysphoric disorder or PMDD. The causes of these symptoms are the changes in hormones experienced prior to the menstrual cycle. Women with a history or family history of depression seem to be more likely to experience PMS and PMDD.
How Does Western Medicine Treat PMS?
Modern medicine attempts to establish harmony to hormones and brain chemistry through medications. Often birth control pills or antidepressants are recommended. Lifestyle changes such as increasing sleep, reducing unhealthy dietary habits, and increasing exercise are also recommended.
How Does Acupuncture Treat PMS?
Chinese medicine does not accept PMS as a natural part of a woman’s menstrual cycle. The symptoms of irritability, breast tenderness, mood swings, food cravings and acne can all be effectively treated using acupuncture. At Integrative Acupuncture, we specialize in women’s health and in particular young women’s health. During the teenage years, PMS can be at its worst and some people would like to avoid treating it with drugs. Gentle acupuncture can be the answer.
We use small acupuncture needles to create changes in the brain chemistry and hormones to eliminate PMS. We frequently work with teens to establish balance in their changing bodies. The procedure is painless, comfortable and highly relaxing. By trying acupuncture for PMS women really do not have to live with the discomfort of the days and weeks prior to their period.
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