About Me
Hello! I'm Grace, a Licensed Acupuncturist and Shiatsu Therapist with over seven years experience working and training in Oriental Medicine. I have a particular interest in women's health and musculoskeletal pain, but I am experienced in treating all kinds of conditions. Using a multidisciplinary approach, my aim is to treat each of my clients holistically, creating a tailored treatment plan for each individual. My main goal is to help guide people back to wellness by harnessing the power and versatility of Oriental Medicine.
Acupuncture for Period Pain
in Lewes
Acupuncture for Period Pain
Acupuncture is a highly effective, natural solution for relieving period pain (dysmenorrhea). By reducing inflammation, increasing blood flow to the pelvis, and stimulating the body's natural pain relieving chemicals, regular acupuncture treatment can bring relief from mild, moderate, and severe menstrual cramps.
What is period pain?
Period pain is a common condition which affects up to 80% percent of women. It is characterised by pain in the lower abdomen, which may radiate to the lower back or thighs. It usually begins just before or at the start of menstruation and typically lasts for 1-3 days.
Is it normal to have painful periods?
Pain during menstruation is so common that it is often seen as a “normal” part of the menstrual cycle, and many women simply put up with it without seeking support. While mild cramping before or during menstruation can be a normal experience for some, moderate to severe period pain that interferes with your daily life is not something that should be ignored, and may be a sign of an underlying disharmony in the body.
What causes period pain?
Before and during menstruation, hormone-like compounds called prostaglandins are released in the uterus, causing it to contract and shed its lining. This is a normal physiological process and can result in mild cramping for some individuals. However, moderate to severe period pain is often associated with higher-than-normal levels of prostaglandins.
Excess prostaglandin production may be linked to factors such as hormonal imbalances (particularly high estrogen or low progesterone levels), chronic inflammation, and conditions including endometriosis or uterine fibroids.
How acupuncture helps period pain
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the menstrual cycle is seen as one of the most important indicators for overall health. From a TCM perspective, period pain is considered a sign of underlying disharmony in the body, often caused by stress, inflammation, and hormone imbalance. Acupuncture works to restore balance and alleviate pain by -
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Balancing hormones.
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Blocking pain signals.
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Improving blood flow, particularly to the pelvis.
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Reducing inflammation and tension.
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Stimulating the body’s natural pain-relieving response.
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Regulating the nervous system.
How many treatments will I need?
Treatment length varies depending on the severity of your period pain, root causes, and your overall health. In most cases, I recommend an initial course of six weekly treatments for best results.
What to expect from your treatment
Consultation - your first session begins with a relaxed conversation about your health history, current symptoms, lifestyle, and goals. This helps me understand the root causes of your PMS and create a personalised treatment plan.
Pulse & Tongue Diagnosis - you then get to lie down while I have a quick look at your tongue and feel your pulse. These are Traditional Chinese Medicine diagnostic techniques which help me build a fuller picture of your overall health.
Gentle Needle Insertion - I then place ultra-fine, sterile needles at specific points on your body. This process is usually painless - you may feel sensations of warmth, heaviness, tingling or a dull ache around the needle.
Time to Relax - you then lie comfortably for 20-40 minutes while the needles do their work. Many people fall into a deep state of relaxation or even drift off to sleep.
Treatment Plan - at the end of your session, we’ll talk through your personalised treatment plan and discuss any supportive exercises, lifestyle guidance, or supplement recommendations that - along with acupuncture treatment - may help to relieve your period pain.