What is Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a key component of TCM that is based on more than 3,500 years of Chinese medical practice. It is done by penetrating the skin with thin, disposable needles. This promotes healing by offering small electrical signals to the brain to restore homeostasis. It also releases Qi blockages, improves blood circulation, reduces inflammation and influences the body’s biochemical signals through the nervous system.
In the brain, acupuncture has been found to alter how different brain regions communicate with each other. It reduces activity in areas linked to stress and illness, like the limbic system, while improving the control of the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis. This axis is crucial for regulating hormones and the body's response to stress.
Acupuncture also boosts parasympathetic activity, which is responsible for rest, relaxation, digestion, and tissue healing. These effects contribute to acupuncture's ability to promote overall well-being and alleviate various health issues.
Common Conditions
Personalised acupuncture plans at Thomson Chinese Medicine target specific meridians and acupoints to enhance overall wellness and address individual health concerns.
Recognising that each person's body and energy system are unique, we tailor treatment strategies accordingly. For instance, targeting the Liver meridian can aid in stress management, while the Heart meridian supports emotional balance, thereby promoting the body's natural healing processes.
Supporting Fertility & Women's Health with Acupuncture
In terms of fertility, acupuncture is believed to help by:
- Regulating Hormones: Acupuncture may influence the endocrine system, helping to regulate hormone levels that are crucial for ovulation and menstrual cycle regularity. This can be particularly beneficial for women with hormonal imbalances affecting their fertility.
- Improving Blood Flow: Acupuncture can enhance blood circulation to the reproductive organs, including the ovaries and uterus. Improved blood flow can support healthy egg production, implantation, and overall reproductive function.
- Reducing Stress: Stress can have a significant impact on fertility by disrupting hormone levels and affecting ovulation. Acupuncture sessions are often relaxing and can help reduce stress, promoting a more conducive environment for conception.
- Supporting Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART): Acupuncture is commonly used alongside fertility treatments such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intrauterine insemination (IUI). Research suggests that acupuncture may improve the success rates of these treatments by enhancing blood flow to the uterus, reducing stress, and supporting overall reproductive health.
Understanding the Process of Acupuncture
At Thomson Medical, the acupuncture process in Singapore is tailored to each individual's unique health needs. During your initial consultation, our certified acupuncturists will conduct a comprehensive assessment, reviewing your medical history and symptoms to determine the most effective treatment plan. This ensures that the acupuncture points selected are targeted to address your specific concerns, whether they relate to pain relief, digestive health, or general well-being.
The procedure involves the gentle insertion of fine, sterile needles at specific acupuncture points on the body. Contrary to common misconceptions, most patients experience minimal discomfort, often describing the sensation as a light tingling or warmth. Each session typically lasts between 20 to 40 minutes, depending on the condition being treated. Regular sessions are recommended to achieve optimal results, with the number of treatments varying based on individual needs and health goals.
Throughout the process, your safety and comfort are our priority. We adhere to strict hygiene protocols, ensuring that all needles used are single-use and sterile, providing a safe and effective treatment experience for all patients.