Image Courtesy: womeninbalance.org
Menstrual cycles are an important aspect of women’s health. The onset of menstruation can mark the beginning of painful periods that last until a woman reaches menopause. Hormonal imbalances can account for heightened abdominal pain, cramping, heavy bleeding, and irritability.
Hormones mediate the changes in women’s monthly cycles
Menstrual cycles are directly related to three key hormones: estrogen, testosterone, and progesterone. In the first two weeks of each cycle, both estrogen and testosterone rise significantly. During this part of the cycle, women can experience an increase in libido.
After Ovulation, around day 14 of the cycle, estrogen and testosterone plunge and progesterone rises. As estrogen levels fall, serotonin levels drop. Low serotonin can cause irritability. During the third week of the cycle, appetite may increase. Concurrently, social interest, libido, and sleep often decrease.
During the fourth week, estrogen and testosterone levels plunge. During this part of the cycle, some women experience PMS (Premenstrual Syndrome). PMS symptoms affect both physical and emotional health. They typically occur several days before a menstrual period and may include headaches, backaches, food cravings, bloating, and mood swings.
Acupuncture helps to regulate hormones throughout the monthly cycle
While hormones routinely fluctuate during cycles, acupuncture can help regulate hormonal balances. Studies have shown that acupuncture can help regulate the hypothalamus-pituitary-ovarian axis, which oversees the production and release of hormones that help regulate reproduction.
Acupuncture also helps to manage the stress hormones cortisol and prolactin. Additionally, acupuncture stimulates the production of endorphins, which are natural painkillers that also can reduce anxiety.
Blood flow to the uterus
Acupuncture can increase blood flow to the uterus. While hormones mediate the changes within the menstrual cycle, blood delivers these hormones to the blood vessels and throughout the uterus. When blood flow is inadequate, the reproductive organs swell and become tender – a key feature of PMS.
Diet and exercise
Diet and exercise play a vital role in treating premenstrual syndrome. A diet rich in calcium, iron, vitamin B6, D, and fiber is often recommended for managing PMS. Additionally, it is important to maintain healthy blood sugar by decreasing sweets and increasing complex carbohydrates. Limiting salt intake and staying well-hydrated is essential
Aerobic activities like walking or swimming, are also beneficial when addressing PMS. Aerobic activity has been shown to reduce symptoms, including headaches, cramps, and breast tenderness. Aerobic exercise often reduces anxiety and depression.
At Frome Physical Therapies, many of our patients seek help for hormonal imbalances. Treatment begins with a thorough evaluation that reveals the history and nature of their symptoms and how they developed. We create a custom-tailored treatment program that frequently includes Five Element Acupuncture and Craniosacral Therapy. We will also share specific exercises that draw from the Physical Therapy, yoga, and chi-gong traditions.
The contents of this article are not meant to be diagnostic or prescriptive. Premenstrual syndrome is often complex, and a physician should always be consulted before choosing a course of treatment.