What Can Acupuncture Do for Your PMS Symptoms?

More than 90% of women struggle with PMS symptoms, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. That’s a staggering number of women who, every month, experience ailments that can range from minor bloating to crippling migraines. Every woman knows the struggle of trying to combat these aches, pains, and emotional hurdles.

Sometimes it seems like we’ve tried everything to fight back against that dreaded time-of-the-month. But what about acupuncture? What can acupuncture do for your PMS symptoms? It turns out, it could be the one solution you haven’t thought of but might want to try.

Acupuncture for the Treatment of PMS Symptoms

Peer-reviewed studies and clinical trials have shown that women who received acupuncture for PMS symptoms showed an improvement compared to those who did not receive the same treatment. One study showed that 77.8% of the women who received acupuncture for relief of PMS symptoms reported positive outcomes. That’s a significant number of women who could be helped with acupuncture for PMS.

How Acupuncture Helps the Physical Symptoms of PMS

The tiny needles used in acupuncture help stimulate the release of neuropeptides in the central nervous system, improving blood flow and the body’s ability to repair itself.

Additionally, it is believed that acupuncture affects the way our bodies process pain. It does this through serotonergic and opioidergic neurotransmission. I know, sounds super crazy.

Essentially, acupuncture tricks our brains into thinking we aren’t in pain at all. It promotes the production of endorphins, a naturally occurring pain reliever in our brains. For women suffering from migraines, severe cramps, or back pain, this is promising news.

How Acupuncture Helps the Emotional Symptoms of PMS

Eastern medicine, such as acupuncture, utilizes a holistic approach to treating issues in the body. Not only do Eastern techniques focus on physical pain relief, but they also account for a patient’s emotional well-being and mental state throughout treatment.

For women who struggle with severe PMS symptoms, you already know where this is going. Mood swings? Fits of anger or uncontrollable tears for what seems like no reason? Depression or heightened anxiety? Check, check, and check. These are all symptoms of PMS that acupuncture can address.

Acupuncture has been shown to have calming effects on the mind, reducing levels of anxiety, and helping those who suffer from depression. If you struggle with the emotional symptoms of PMS, acupuncture may be beneficial.

Where Do I Go for Acupuncture Treatment?

Acupuncture has become increasingly popular in recent years, and many medical practices are incorporating the technique into their treatment options.

The technique is considered extremely low-risk, so even if you don’t see the benefits, it’s highly unlikely to produce any adverse side effects. Many private insurance companies in the United States have started covering acupuncture if it takes place at a medical practice for the treatment of a specified diagnosis.

If you’re struggling with PMS symptoms, ask your physician if acupuncture might be right for you.