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Premenstrual Syndrome (or PMS) is a set of symptoms that women experience between ovulation and a period. Some common PMS symptoms include mood swings and pain in different areas such as the pelvis, abdomen, joints, and breast. The exact cause of PMS is unknown. However, many experts believe that PMS occurs due to hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle. 

PMS symptoms can disrupt a woman’s daily life by causing significant physical discomfort and emotional distress. Most women experience PMS symptoms and the intensity of these symptoms can vary between women. Some women experience mild symptoms, whereas others are so severe that they are forced to miss school or work.

Many women use acupuncture to manage PMS symptoms as acupuncture has a natural calming effect. The nervous system regulates several physiological processes. A health problem can throw the nervous system off balance. Acupuncture can restore balance to the nervous system.

Research suggests that San Francisco acupuncture can relieve PMS symptoms such as headaches, anxiety, insomnia, and cramps. In one study, acupuncture reduced PMS symptoms in 78% of the participants. It was concluded that acupuncture may improve circulation and increase endorphin levels, which in turn, improves mood and reduces pain.

Many women experience dysmenorrhea or cramps 24-48 hours before a period. Caused by uterine contractions, dysmenorrhea can interfere with daily activities. In a 2018 study, 60 women with primary dysmenorrhea were divided into two groups. One group received acupuncture for 90 days. The other group did not receive acupuncture.

Women in the acupuncture group reported a significant improvement in their symptoms such as pain, menstrual cramps, dizziness, mood swings, tiredness, and nausea as compared to the women in the group that did not receive acupuncture. Another 2018 study found that acupuncture reduced menstrual pain better than NSAIDs.

Various studies have concluded that stress is a risk factor for PMS. Acupuncture can help reduce the levels of stress hormones in the body. It also stimulates the body to produce feel-good hormones such as oxytocin and serotonin.

In addition to reducing PMS symptoms, acupuncture can treat fertility problems by improving circulation to different reproductive organs. Various studies have found that when combined with a fertility treatment such as IVF or IUI, acupuncture can increase the woman’s chances of getting pregnant.

Uterine fibroids obstruct the fallopian tubes and can cause fertility problems. In many cases, they are the sole cause of infertility. Acupuncture can treat uterine fibroids by regulating pelvic nerves and female sex hormone levels and improving blood circulation in the pelvic cavity.

A woman’s body undergoes many changes during different pregnancy stages. These changes can cause discomfort and pain. Acupuncture can promote a healthy pregnancy. It is used to treat a number of complaints during pregnancy, such as morning sickness, constipation, and hot flashes.

Anchor Acupuncture & Wellness is a leading acupuncture clinic in San Francisco. We have mastered the art of tailoring treatment plans to our clients’ specific healthcare needs. To learn more, call (415) 855-3112.