Menstrual Pain Treatment
Studies show that the intensity and duration of period pain can be reduced by up to 50 percent by administering acupuncture. Acupuncture is a way to resolve menstrual pain and other reproductive health-related issues naturally, without the unwanted side effects that often come with other forms of treatment.
How does acupuncture work to ease menstrual pain?
Acupuncture works for reproductive health in four ways:
- Promotes optimal blood flow to and through the reproductive organs
- Reduces chronic inflammation – acupuncture stimulates the vagus nerve and causes a rise in dopamine (a neurotransmitter linked to pleasure). In turn, this reduces inflammation.
- Improves hormone balance
- Reduces stress by releasing endorphins — a naturally-produced chemical that plays a large role in relieving pain, stress, and depression.
Causes of Menstrual Pain
Menstrual cramps are pains in a woman’s lower abdomen that occur when her menstrual period begins (or just before) and may continue for two to three days. They may be throbbing or aching and can be dull or sharp. Symptoms can range in severity from a mild annoyance to severe pain that interferes with normal activities.
Prostaglandins are chemicals a woman’s body produces that cause many of the symptoms associated with menstrual discomfort. The tissue that lines the uterus makes these chemicals. Prostaglandins stimulate the uterine muscles to contract. Women who have high levels of prostaglandin may experience more intense contractions of their uterus and more pain. Prostaglandins may also be responsible for vomiting, diarrhea, and headaches that accompany painful periods.
Symptoms of Menstrual Pain
In addition to cramps in the lower abdomen, a woman may also experience some of these symptoms with menstrual cramps:
- Lower back pain
- Leg pain, radiating down the legs
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Headaches
- Irritability
- Weakness
- Fainting spells (in extreme cases)
For more information about how acupuncture and other treatments can help you, please contact the Urban Acupuncture Center Board Certified Licensed Acupuncturist’s team at Indianola Ave, Clintonville (614) 725-2488 | Main St, Westerville (614) 426-4406 or click here. Taking new patients in and around greater Columbus, Ohio.