Acupuncture for Women (Evening Echo 09 July 2008)

Where does acupuncture originate?
Acupuncture is an ancient holistic therapy which originated in China over 2,000 years ago. It is a holistic therapy because every aspect of a person life is taken into account when their illness is being treated. Illness is regarded as a sing of an internal disharmony in the body’s Qi or vital energy. The acupuncture treatment aims to restore that balance.

What can I expect in my first treatment?
In a typical acupuncture treatment the practitioner will begin by examining the tongue and taking the pulse in both hands. This can yield considerable information depending on the colour and texture of the tongue and the speed and strength of the pulse. The she will go through a detailed list of questions about your general health such as diet, sleep patterns, menstrual cycle, headaches or pain anywhere in the body, general energy and your medical history. With this information the practitioner will be able to build up a picture of areas of strength or weakness in your system and from this can compile a treatment plan and choose what acupuncture points to use.

Is acupuncture painful?
The acupuncture points to be used are swabbed to clean the area and very fine needles are inserted into the points. Some people worry about how painful acupuncture may be. The needles used are as fine as a hair and usually cause little pain. The sensation of the needling is similar to an insect bite and it fades quickly.

What can acupuncture treat?
Acupuncture can make a positive impact on many areas of a woman health. It can be used safely during pregnancy when taking medication is avoided for a wide variety of common complaints: morning sickness, indigestion, headaches, promoting labour and even turning breech positioned babies! Pre menstrual tension is effectively helped using acupuncture and heat treatments such as heat lamps and moxa sticks (these are Chinese herbs rolled into cigar-like shapes and held over the acupuncture points). This treatment works to soothe and relax the body and ease away cramping, agitation and bloating. Tiredness is another common complaint which can benefit for acupuncture treatment. Many of us experience periods of tiredness or stress and acupuncture may be the answer as it can lift energy levels, boost our immune system and restore balance to our bodies and minds.

How do I find a practitioner?
Professional registers such as the Traditional Chinese Medicine Council of Ireland keep and updated list of qualified fully insured members. Check out their website on www.tcmci.ie

NOTE: The information in this article is only offered as a guide and isn’t a substitute for medical advice. If the problem become worse or continues, consult your health professional. If you have any questions about this article, you can email me: caroline@corkacupunctureclinic.com or use the online form to get in touch with me.