Although some women may have it easier than others, around 80% of women experience period pain at some point in their lives. In fact, cramps are not the only thing that affects women when it comes to their menstrual cycle – an irregular period, heavy flow and excessive blood clots are also some examples of menstrual problems.
But this is also where Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) can come into play. TCM treatment methods are some of the most effective and natural ways to ease menstrual problems so that this monthly occurrence is no longer challenging and frustrating. After all, a normal and healthy period is tied to fertility and overall wellness.
Here’s how TCM helps with menstrual problems – read on to find out more.
Regulates Your Menstrual Cycle
An average menstrual cycle typically lasts between 28 to 35 days and comprises four stages – menstrual flow, post-menses, ovulation and pre-menstrual. However, certain factors such as stress, medications you are taking and medical conditions like endometriosis may result in an irregular menstrual cycle. While an irregular menstrual cycle usually causes more stress, going for acupuncture at a TCM clinic in Singapore might help. The use of fine needles on acupoints can stimulate blood and energy flow in your body, removing any Qi stagnation or blockages to maintain a healthy menstrual cycle. When your energy levels and immune system are strengthened, harmony is created in the body and yin and yang become balanced to ensure good health. Read more about the important meridians that will be activated during acupuncture here.
Alleviates menstrual cramps
Another TCM treatment you can consider is moxibustion, a technique that involves burning mugwort leaves a few inches away from your acupoints to alleviate menstrual cramps. It works by stimulating blood and energy flow, dispelling cold, and easing any stagnation. It also stimulates the release of hormones that are causing contractions in the uterus so that menstrual pain and cramps reduce in return.
Helps Manage PMS Symptoms
Apart from having to deal with period cramps, women also have to go through PMS which includes experiencing mood swings, breast tenderness, changes in appetite, bloating, acne, and migraine. All these only add to the stress but TCM treatments like acupuncture and taking herbal medications will help to reduce the symptoms. Despite being mostly known for alleviating bodily pains, acupuncture may also have a direct impact on your mental health, especially during that time of the month. Stimulating different acupoints can address physical pains and PMS symptoms that will help you to feel better and more relaxed. Physicians will typically prescribe herbal medications that go hand in hand with acupuncture to assist you in further managing any PMS symptoms. These herbs also help to replenish nutrition that your body needs, soothe the Liver’s Qi to relieve emotional stress, and promote blood circulation to prevent blood clots from forming.
Manages Menopausal Symptoms
It is not just younger women who experience menstrual problems; older women between the ages of 45 and 55 who are in the menopausal transition may also suffer from menopause syndrome, experiencing symptoms like irregular period flow, mood swings, night sweats, hot flushes and more. A combination of acupuncture and herbal medications can help to balance any disharmony between yin and yang, focusing on the Spleen, Kidney and Liver. You will notice an improvement in menopausal symptoms and the entire menopause process will be less stressful so you can age gracefully.
Speak to a TCM Physician Today
Consider visiting a TCM clinic in Singapore, if you are experiencing any of the menstrual problems mentioned above.
Physicians can propose a tailored treatment plan including acupuncture and herbal medications to help you achieve a healthy menstrual cycle.
Physician Seah Ai Wei
Traditional Chinese Medicine
Thomson Chinese Medicine (TCM Novena Specialist Centre)
English, Mandarin
Alliance MediNet
