Menopause, a natural part of every woman’s life cycle, can bring some unwanted and difficult shifts in physical and mental health. Hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, insomnia, vaginal dryness, headaches, anxiety and depression are some of the challenges many women face.
Menopause is the time in a woman’s life when her ovaries stop producing estrogen and progesterone resulting in the cessation of menstruation. Some women are thrilled while others mourn the loss of their childbearing abilities.
Menopause, like puberty, sexual maturation, conception, pregnancy and childbirth are naturally occurring parts of women’s reproductive health. Each change can have a life of its own and be demanding. While the hormonal changes that occur in menopause are often challenging, it is entirely possible to enjoy this stage of life.
Western medicine often treats the side effects of menopause with hormonal replacement therapy. While HRT can be effective, it can often be avoided or minimized when acupuncture is utilized as the treatment strategy.
Acupuncture offers a wonderful alternative to HRT as was demonstrated in a study performed by Grille. This study appeared in The British Acupuncture Council Journal in 1989. Menopausal women with extreme symptoms including hot flashes, mood swings, anxiety and depression were divided into three groups. The first group was treated with acupuncture, the second group received HRT, and the third group had no treatment. The acupuncture and HRT groups both had comparable results; that is, their blood levels for estrogen, progesterone, testosterone and TSH all improved and the secondary symptoms of menopause diminished.
Acupuncture can help to regulate hormonal imbalances for both men and women at any time of life. Japanese acupuncturist Kiiko Matsumoto has developed a comprehensive approach to hormonal balance. Utilizing the palpation of specific reflex points the hormonal systems that are out of balance can be pinpointed. The acupuncturist utilizes this information with tiny acupuncture needles that harmonize the energetic pathways.
For example, a woman in menopause may have an ovary, adrenal or thyroid imbalance. With the use of palpation, the system that is out of balance can be revealed. As the treatment progresses reflex points can again be palpated to monitor progress.
For a Five Element Acupuncturist, the goal is to resolve these issues by treating the whole person, not just the symptom. Regular treatments lead to increased vitality and health during the menopausal years as well as the golden ones! Five Element Acupuncture can help you to enjoy each and every stage of life.
David Frome, Physical Therapist, Advanced Rolfer and Five Element Acupuncturist is a recognized leader in the field of holistic therapies in the tri-state region. He is now practicing in Montclair and Asbury Park, NJ. Call us now 973.509.8464 or schedule online at www.fromept.com for your next appointment.
The contents in this article are not meant to be diagnostic or prescriptive. Women’s hormonal problems are often complex and a physician should always be consulted before choosing a course of treatment.
This article appears in the March issue of Natural Awakenings Magazine Monmouth/Ocean edition. Click here to subscribe.