Hormone Balancing with Acupuncture

Acupuncture is an ancient healing art originating from China. It involves using thin needles inserted into the skin to help optimize the flow of energy or qi (pronounced “chee”) through the body. They do this by optimizing the meridians, or energy channels, in the body by helping improve energy flow. Needles can help support your body with illness, pain, and a low mood as acupuncture promotes the release of natural endorphins. Needling can also help improve blood flow throughout the body and affects hormone balancing.

Human and animal studies have demonstrated that acupuncture can positively affect sex hormones such as estrogen (estradiol specifically) and progesterone. It may also help balance out precursor hormones such as LH (luteinizing hormone) and FSH (follicle stimulating hormone) though more research needs to be done. It has been studied for menopausal women to support them with hot flashes, night sweats, skin/hair changes, emotions, sleep problems, etc. In one study, acupuncture was able to reduce moderate-to-severe menopause symptoms in six weeks’ time. Additionally, acupuncture may be helpful with chronic pain, infertility, migraines, joint/back pain, immune system issues, etc.

Acupuncture should only be performed by trained and licensed professionals as there is risk involved whenever the skin is punctured. Forty-seven states and the District of Columbia license acupuncturists in the United States. Generally, sessions run 30-60 minutes long and involve a discussion with your acupuncturist, then very thin needles are carefully placed to support you with your individual health concerns.

References