Category: gynaecology

acupuncture and uterine fibroids
slim woman dressed in white panties, holding a red flower in her hands, close-up. Gynecology, menstruation, the concept of genital health

Acupuncture is a natural approach that may help to relieve some menstrual complaints. Whether periods are painful, irregular or heavy, this practice aims to regulate the cycle by rebalancing energy and stimulating blood circulation. It may also help to reduce stress, alongside gynaecological care, for greater comfort in daily life.

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The benefits of acupuncture for PCOS: how does it work?

pcos polycystic ovary

acupuncture and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

The benefits of acupuncture for PCOS: how does it work?

Introduction

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal condition that affects between 8 and 13% of women of reproductive age. This complex disorder can cause irregular menstrual cycles, an excess of male hormones (androgens), difficulty conceiving and other symptoms that deeply affect quality of life.

Faced with the limits of conventional treatments, such as hormonal medication or fertility treatments, many women turn to complementary approaches. Among them, acupuncture is the subject of research, both for hormonal balance and for reducing stress. But how can this ancient practice really help women live better with PCOS?

1. PCOS: understanding what is at stake

PCOS shows up as a hormonal imbalance that interferes with how the ovaries work. As well as irregular cycles and infrequent ovulation, it is often associated with insulin resistance, weight gain, acne or hair loss.
According to the Rotterdam criteria (2003), it is the most common hormonal disorder in women of reproductive age.

Traditional treatments, although effective, do not always suit every patient. Acupuncture can be offered alongside them, with a holistic approach that looks at several aspects of PCOS.

2. Acupuncture: a natural and complementary approach

Acupuncture is a Traditional Chinese Medicine practice that involves inserting fine needles at strategic points on the body. The aim is to restore the balance of Qi (vital energy) and to stimulate the body’s self-regulating mechanisms.

In modern medicine, some studies suggest positive effects of acupuncture on:

  • The hormonal system (by influencing the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis).
  • Stress management (lower cortisol levels).
  • Blood circulation (particularly in the pelvic area).

3. What studies suggest about acupuncture and PCOS

Scientific studies have looked at acupuncture in women with PCOS, with encouraging but still limited results:

  1. Regulation of menstrual cycles and ovulation:
    A 2011 study (Stener-Victorin et al.) observed that electro-acupuncture might help regulate menstrual cycles. After 3 months of treatment, 40% of women reportedly saw a return to regular ovulation.
  2. Improved hormone levels:
    A 2020 systematic review (Journal of Clinical Medicine) observed that acupuncture might reduce testosterone levels and improve insulin sensitivity, two crucial aspects of PCOS.
  3. Reduced stress:
    A 2017 study (PLOS One) observed that 83% of patients reported a noticeable reduction in stress and an improvement in their overall wellbeing after several acupuncture sessions.
  4. Fertility support:
    A 2015 study observed that acupuncture, combined with fertility treatments, might increase the chances of ovulation and conception. Some studies suggest that women who used acupuncture to prepare for IVF might see their chances of success increase.

4. What to expect during an acupuncture session?

An acupuncture session begins with an overall assessment of your symptoms and medical history. The needles are inserted at specific points, often on the arms, legs or abdomen, and left in place for 20 to 30 minutes.

For PCOS, regular sessions are advised, usually over several months, for support over time. For most patients the practice is painless and relaxing.

Conclusion

Acupuncture is a promising natural and complementary approach for women with PCOS. By helping to balance hormones, reduce stress and support fertility, it may help to improve patients’ quality of life.

If you are considering trying acupuncture, consult a qualified practitioner for treatment adapted to your specific needs.

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Acupuncture and premenstrual syndrome

PMS

acupuncture and PMS

Effects of acupuncture on premenstrual syndrome: a scientific approach

Introduction

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) affects a majority of women of childbearing age, with a wide range of symptoms, from abdominal pain, migraines and fatigue to emotional symptoms such as irritability and anxiety. These symptoms, which appear in the days before menstruation, can significantly affect quality of life.

Despite the range of conventional treatments, from anti-inflammatories to hormonal therapies, their effectiveness is often limited by unwanted side effects. In this context, acupuncture, which comes from Traditional Chinese Medicine, is attracting growing interest as a complementary therapy. This article looks at the effect of this practice on PMS, drawing on recent scientific studies to assess its effectiveness and its mechanism of action.

Here is, in detail, how acupuncture works in the context of PMS, from both a traditional and a scientific point of view:

How does acupuncture work for PMS?

According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

In TCM, premenstrual syndrome is seen as an energy imbalance linked to the liver, spleen and kidney organs. These imbalances can cause stagnation of Qi (vital energy) and blood, which is often responsible for pain and irritability.

Acupuncture works by:

  1. Freeing the Qi: by stimulating points such as LR3 (Liver 3) or SP6 (Spleen 6), it helps to restore the flow of energy, relieving the blockages responsible for pain and tension.
  2. Balancing the emotions: points linked to the liver are often stimulated to calm irritability and regulate the emotions, as this organ is associated with managing stress in TCM.

According to modern science

Scientific research has identified several physiological mechanisms that explain the beneficial effects of acupuncture on PMS:

  1. Modulation of the nervous system
    • Acupuncture stimulates the peripheral nerves, sending signals to the brain and spinal cord.
    • This activation leads to the release of endorphins and enkephalins, natural substances that reduce pain and create a feeling of well-being.
  2. Effect on neurotransmitters
    • Some studies suggest that acupuncture influences levels of serotonin and dopamine, two neurotransmitters that are essential to mood regulation.
    • This may explain why it may help to reduce the emotional symptoms of PMS, such as anxiety, depression and irritability.
  3. Hormonal regulation
    • Acupuncture acts on the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis, regulating the production of key hormones such as oestrogen and progesterone.
    • This helps to stabilise menstrual cycles and ease the symptoms linked to hormonal variations.
  4. Reduction of inflammation
    • Acupuncture points stimulate the release of anti-inflammatory molecules while decreasing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-alpha.
    • This modulation of inflammatory responses helps to reduce the abdominal and muscular pain often associated with PMS.
  5. Improved blood circulation
    • Menstrual cramps can be made worse by poor circulation in the pelvic area. Acupuncture dilates the blood vessels and improves local blood flow, which may help to relieve pain.

Physiological explanations

The potential benefit of acupuncture in supporting premenstrual syndrome is thought to rest on several identified physiological mechanisms:

  1. Hormonal regulation
    PMS is often associated with a hormonal imbalance, in particular excessive fluctuation of oestrogen and insufficient progesterone. Some studies suggest that acupuncture can influence the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis, regulating the production of sex hormones. This helps to stabilise menstrual cycles and ease the symptoms of PMS.
  2. Effect on the nervous system
    Acupuncture activates the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting a state of relaxation. It also modulates the release of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and endorphins, which may explain its positive impact on the emotional symptoms linked to PMS, such as anxiety and irritability.
  3. Reduction of inflammation
    Chronic inflammation plays a role in menstrual pain and in some symptoms of PMS. By stimulating certain specific points, acupuncture can reduce the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which helps to relieve pain and muscle tension.
  4. Improved blood circulation
    The cramps and pain associated with PMS can be linked to poor blood circulation in the pelvic area. Acupuncture may improve local blood flow by dilating the vessels, which may help to reduce pain and spasms.

Benefits
  • Non-invasive treatment: unlike medication or surgery, acupuncture carries no major health risks.Minimal side effects: complications are rare and are generally limited to slight pain or redness where the needles were placed.Holistic approach: acupuncture takes all of the body’s imbalances into account, making it possible to support both physical and emotional symptoms.

Review of scientific studies with detailed references

  1. Randomised clinical trial (2018)
    A randomised controlled study published in PLOS ONE compared the effectiveness of real and sham acupuncture in 141 women with PMS. The authors observed a significant reduction in the intensity of abdominal pain and emotional symptoms, with a more marked improvement in the group that received real acupuncture.
    • Reference: Armour M, Ee C, Hao J, Wilson TM, Yao SS, Smith CA. Acupuncture for premenstrual syndrome (PMS): A randomized controlled trial. PLoS One. 2018;13(2):e0191517. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0191517.
  2. Meta-analysis (2020)
    A meta-analysis of 11 clinical trials, published in Complementary Therapies in Medicine, observed that acupuncture may significantly reduce the physical symptoms (pain, cramps) and psychological symptoms (anxiety, irritability) of PMS. The authors noted, however, that the heterogeneity of the protocols limited how far the results could be generalised.
    • Reference: Liu J, Liu S, Yin F. Efficacy of acupuncture in the management of premenstrual syndrome: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Complement Ther Med. 2020;49:102352. doi:10.1016/j.ctim.2020.102352.
  3. Pilot study (2022)
    A trial published in the Journal of Women’s Health examined the effects of acupuncture on cortisol levels, which are often high in women with PMS. After 8 sessions, participants reported a significant improvement in their mood, correlated with a decrease in cortisol levels.
    • Reference: Zhang X, Huang L, Wang S. Acupuncture and stress regulation in women with premenstrual syndrome: A pilot study. J Women’s Health. 2022;31(5):453-459. doi:10.1089/jwh.2021.0458.

Physiological explanations supported by research

Reference: Li F, Wu J, Song H. The anti-inflammatory effects of acupuncture on cytokine modulation in menstrual pain and PMS. Pain Med. 2021;22(6):815-823. doi:10.1093/pm/pnz126.

Hormonal regulation
Some studies suggest that acupuncture may stabilise oestrogen and progesterone levels by modulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis. Research published in Endocrinology Letters (2019) found a correlation between acupuncture and hormonal balance in women with PMS.

Reference: Kim YJ, Park H. Effect of acupuncture on endocrine and hormonal changes in women with PMS. Endocrinol Lett. 2019;40(3):281-286.

Reduction of inflammation
By stimulating certain specific points, such as SP6 and LR3, acupuncture may reduce pro-inflammatory cytokines. A study published in Pain Medicine (2021) observed that this practice may lower levels of TNF-alpha, which is involved in menstrual pain.

Conclusion

Acupuncture presents itself as an innovative approach, studied with encouraging but still limited results, to managing premenstrual syndrome. Although it does not replace conventional medical treatment, it can offer noticeable relief, especially for women looking for natural, minimally invasive solutions.

However, to confirm these benefits on a large scale, rigorous, well-controlled clinical trials with standardised protocols are still needed. Alongside traditional treatments, acupuncture is a promising avenue in the overall support of PMS.

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Acupuncture and uterine fibroids

acupuncture and uterine fibroids
benefits of acupuncture for uterine fibroids

Acupuncture and uterine fibroids: benefits and how it works

Uterine fibroids, also called myomas, are benign tumours that develop in or around the uterus. Although they often cause no symptoms, they can cause pelvic pain, heavy bleeding, irregular periods or difficulty conceiving. Faced with these symptoms, many women look for complementary solutions to relieve their discomfort, and acupuncture is emerging as a natural option, alongside medical care.

What is acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a practice from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that involves inserting fine needles at specific points on the body. According to TCM, this technique aims to restore the balance of vital energy, called Qi(pronounced “chee”), which flows through the body via energy channels or meridians. When the flow of this energy is disrupted, this can lead to imbalances and illness.

In the case of fibroids, acupuncture may help restore this energy balance and reduce the symptoms linked to the condition.

The benefits of acupuncture for uterine fibroids

  1. Reducing pelvic pain
    Fibroids can cause cramps or a feeling of pressure in the pelvic area. Acupuncture stimulates the release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkilling hormones, which may help to relieve discomfort.
  2. Improving blood circulation
    Poor blood circulation in the uterine area is sometimes associated with the development of fibroids. Acupuncture may encourage better blood supply to the uterus, which may help to reduce inflammation.
  3. Regulating hormones
    Hormonal imbalances, in particular high oestrogen levels, play a key role in the formation of fibroids. By targeting certain specific points, acupuncture may help to harmonise hormone levels and support optimal functioning of the endocrine system.
  4. Reducing stress and anxiety
    Chronic stress can make fibroid symptoms worse. Acupuncture may encourage deep relaxation and lower the level of cortisol, the stress hormone, thereby helping to minimise flare-ups of symptoms.
  5. Reducing heavy bleeding
    Acupuncture may help balance menstrual flow by strengthening the energy functions of the spleen and liver, according to the principles of TCM, which helps reduce heavy or prolonged periods.

How does it work?

During an acupuncture session for fibroids, the practitioner begins by carrying out a personalised energy assessment. This involves a discussion of the symptoms, an examination of the tongue and taking the pulse to assess the imbalances. The practitioner then inserts needles at specific points, often located on the abdomen, legs, arms or back. These points may be linked to the uterus, to hormones or to stress management.

The effects are generally not instant; several sessions are often needed to see significant improvements. Each treatment is adapted to the patient’s unique needs.

The limits of acupuncture

Although acupuncture offers many benefits, it does not replace conventional medical treatment. If fibroids are very large or cause serious complications (such as severe anaemia or intense pain), surgery or other medical treatments may be necessary. Acupuncture should be used as a complement to improve overall well-being.

Key points

Acupuncture offers a gentle and natural approach that may help to relieve the symptoms of uterine fibroids. It may act on pain, hormonal imbalances and stress, and so help to improve the quality of life of the women affected. If you are considering this practice, it is essential to consult a qualified practitioner and to discuss it with your doctor for complete medical follow-up.

By combining traditional and modern approaches, it is possible to live better with fibroids and regain a better balance of body and mind.

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Morning sickness and Acupuncture

Pregnant woman with morning sickness

Are you pregnant and suffering from morning sickness that is spoiling your pregnancy? Acupuncture may help to relieve it, and some people notice an improvement from the first few sessions.

The nausea and vomiting that appear early in pregnancy are known as morning sickness. They often appear between the 6th and 16th weeks of pregnancy. They become more intense between weeks 8 and 12 of pregnancy. While the symptoms can sometimes reassure some women, they can also affect quality of life and prevent proper eating.

50% of women may vomit and more than 80% of pregnant women experience nausea. Eating less is not an effective way to treat morning sickness, especially if vomiting is the main symptom. Vomiting can lead to dehydration, which affects the pregnant woman as well as the foetus.

While morning sickness is linked to hormonal changes (beta hCG levels, oestrogen…), stress, fatigue and other emotional factors can also play a role. If the pregnant woman has significant symptoms, whether physical or psychological, it is important to seek medical advice.

Acupuncture as support for morning sickness

If morning sickness needs to be treated, acupuncture can be offered alongside medical care, in liaison with the doctor or midwife. During pregnancy, its side effects are uncommon and usually mild when performed by a trained practitioner. Some studies suggest that it may help to reduce nausea and vomiting.

During early pregnancy, major changes take place in the body, and acupuncture can relieve symptoms at the energy level.

If symptoms are significant, it is always best to book an appointment with your doctor first.

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menstrual cycle

Menstrual cycle, periods, amenorrhoea, endometriosis, PCOS, menstruation

Pain-free, regular periods are a sign of good health and good hormonal balance, and therefore of a healthy menstrual cycle.

In this quiz*, find out what your symptoms say about your general health. You will understand your symptoms and find advice or solutions to improve your quality of life. Experiencing mild symptoms is normal; however, some signs point to an imbalance or a condition that needs to be investigated and treated.

After the quiz, remember to display your score to see the results.

*This quiz is for information only and is in no way a medical diagnosis, nor does it treat any condition. Always consult your GP or specialist if you have questions about a treatment or a diagnosis. Click on the link below

https://forms.gle/QrQYFqzDunfF2ivG9

The menstrual cycle is shaped by several factors, such as its length, the flow during periods (heavy, haemorrhagic, presence of clots, red, pink or black colour), mood changes (low mood, irritability, crying), sleep disorders, digestive disorders (bloating, diarrhoea, constipation), hot flushes, sweating, etc.

Chinese medicine places great importance on female balance. Good physical and mental health flows from this balance. From period disorders, through infertility, to menopause, acupuncture supports women throughout their lives. It can also support fatigue, insomnia, abdominal pain, and the management of emotions and stress

Keywords: periods, menstruation, period disorders, endometriosis, menopause, PCOS, Chinese medicine, acupuncture, acupuncturist.

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Assisted reproduction (ART) and Acupuncture

Assisted reproduction IVF acupuncture session embryo transfer

When should you come for an acupuncture session during assisted reproduction?

Patients undergoing assisted reproduction often turn to acupuncture, alongside the care of their medical team. Some studies suggest that it may increase their chances of success.

Depending on the patient, preparatory work over several months is needed. Only a personalised assessment makes it possible to tailor the support. Patients who come for a consultation just before an egg retrieval or a transfer receive shorter support.

As I specialise in fertility, to optimise it naturally or during assisted reproduction, you can consult with complete confidence at the practice. Here are the issues and goals of the patients I support at my practice:

  • Maximising the chances before and after transfer during IVF
  • Repeated IVF failure
  • Implantation failure
  • Recurrent miscarriage
  • Egg donation
  • Endometrial thickness
  • Optimising the quality and quantity of eggs and sperm
  • Reducing the negative effects of medication during IVF
  • Restoring hormonal balance
  • Regulating the immune system
  • Improving blood flow to the uterus and ovaries
  • Increasing uterine receptivity and implantation
  • Reducing the negative effects of stress and negative emotions
  • Regulating inflammation
assisted reproduction, book an appointment, egg retrieval, transfer

There are then several options; you can have:

  • A session before: from a few days to 24 hours before egg retrieval and/or;
  • A session before: from a few days to 24 hours before the transfer and/or;
  • A session on the same day after the transfer or the following day and/or;
  • A session one week after the transfer.

Please note that acupuncture sessions can provide support in the first trimester of pregnancy, alongside medical care.

If a cycle fails, it is recommended to wait at least 2 months before a new attempt.

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Fertility and acupuncture

Fertility and acupuncture
fertility acupuncture

According to Chinese medicine, conception depends on good balance in the woman but also in the man.

The role of acupuncture in fertility

  • -regulating periods;
  • -regulating hormones, sometimes specific blood tests are needed;
  • -support during ART, IVF, egg donation;
  • -nourishing and moving the “Blood” after stopping contraception ( 2 to 6 months);
  • -advice on lifestyle.
fertility acupuncture and apps

The patient should track her cycles and the length of her periods, using certain apps for example, as well as her temperature curve, which should drop slightly before ovulation and then peak during the 2 days of ovulation.

Some causes of female infertility

–Ovarian imbalance: polycystic ovary syndrome, excessively intense physical exercise, eating disorder, tumour

-Uterine malformations, damaged or blocked fallopian tubes, endometriosis

-Low ovarian reserve

-Adhesions following surgery: abdomen, appendicitis, uterus…

-Thyroid problems

-Cancer

-Other problems: amenorrhoea, coeliac disease, Cushing’s disease, kidney disease, diabetes.

-Certain medicines.

Some causes of male infertility

-abnormal sperm function or production

-malformed or slow sperm

-overexposure to chemicals or toxins

-damage linked to cancers or certain treatments.

Other causes of infertility

-overwork, excessive sporting activity

-diet

-physical trauma

-emotional imbalance (stress, fear, anxiety, frustration, anger): this can lead to infertility, irregular periods and miscarriages.

acupuncture migraine
acupuncture and fertility

Acupuncture sessions and fertility

it is important to determine the aim of the sessions: natural conception, ART support, IVF, egg donation, miscarriage prevention.

Depending on the aims, it takes on average 3 months, sometimes more, to obtain results.

To book an appointment on Doctolib

Keywords: acupuncture point, acupuncture session, acupuncture Aix-en-Provence, fertility acupuncture, stimulation, ovarian follicle, contraception, ovarian cyst, osteopathy, ovary, pregnant, fertility, woman, acupuncture.

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Acupuncture

acupuncture
what is acupuncture?

Acupuncture (sometimes spelt “acuponcture” in French) is a very old therapeutic method, born in China 5,000 years ago, which regulates the body by means of needles placed in the skin at precise acupuncture points.

Acupuncture is based on the concept of vital energy and the theory of yin and yang. A state of balance defines good health.

Sometimes, internal or external aggressions disturb this balance, such as climatic changes (cold, heat, wind, dryness, trauma, infection) or eating too little or too much, dietary mistakes, excess or lack of emotions (anger, fear, sadness).

The imbalance may be temporary if the body has good immunity or if the pathogen is eliminated. Otherwise, the imbalance leads to the dysfunction of an organ, which in turn leads to the onset of an illness.

First and foremost preventive, acupuncture’s role is to maintain good health. It is also curative as soon as symptoms appear. It is advisable to have a session every 4 months, that is, at each change of season. This makes it possible to anticipate certain symptoms, such as allergies for example, or to prevent certain illnesses by boosting immunity.

According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, vital energy depends on the quantity and quality of the air we breathe, on diet, on managing emotions as well as on mental and sexual stimulation and on solar radiation.

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Menopause in Chinese medicine

menopause, menstrual cycle, acupuncturist Aix-en-Provence
menopause in Chinese medicine

In Chinese medicine, menopause is seen as a real liberation for women. If it is well prepared for, the transition goes smoothly.

Some women experience symptoms such as hot flushes, night sweats, reduced libido, dryness, headaches, insomnia, heart palpitations, digestive problems or low moods. Joint pain may also be present as a result of bone demineralisation.

Acupuncture may ease these symptoms by regulating the circulation of blood and energy.

It is also possible to regulate menstrual cycle problems (cycles that are too long or too short) for a few months or years.

By restoring harmony on a physical and mental level, women can respond positively to this new stage of life and reach a new maturity and self-confidence, to feel more at ease in their natural and social environment.

Menopause does not mean old age. Indeed, many women know how to maintain a lovely body and a beautiful face well beyond menopause.

To book an appointment with an acupuncturist in Aix-en-Provence or Cadenet, go to Doctolib

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Yintang

YinTang or third eye point for insomnia anxiety depression
yintang point

Origin of the Yintang point

Acupuncture can help with psychological and emotional disorders (stress and anxiety). Widely used in treatments, Yintang is located in the space between the eyebrows.

Called the “palace of the mind”, it is a so-called “extraordinary” point. It is also known as the point of feelings and emotions. It has an effect on the intellect, the emotions and consciousness. It corresponds to the upper Dantian.

It corresponds to the “3rd eye” or sixth chakra: Ajna. This chakra symbolises intuition, clarity, meditation and confidence. “I see”

YinTang may help to calm the mind, improve concentration, release emotions, promote sleep, relieve migraines and support states of depression in liaison with the doctor.

Linked to the Heart meridian, local redness or warmth indicates states of heat or excess yang.

Its colour and texture help to diagnose the person’s state of health.

Indications

  • Anxiety, depression,
  • Insomnia,
  • Mental agitation,
  • Headaches, migraines,
  • Sinusitis, nasal congestion, rhinitis
  • Hangover,

This point is used for many reasons for consultation. It is often used in sessions such as weight loss or stopping smoking.

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