Q - How can acupuncture treat gynecological problems?
A - In the treatment of gynecological concerns, acupuncture begins most often by balancing a woman's endocrine system through the unblocking of energy based on individual pattern diagnosis. The effects of this are registered most often through changes in the menstrual cycle or the alleviation of uncomfortable symptoms. As opposed to commonly used therapies by Western medicine that can be invasive or cause side effects, acupuncture will do neither. This is not to say the acupuncture is recommended in place of Western medicine, but is a great adjunct where Western medicine treatments impose significant stress on the body or provide ineffective treatment. Many conditions may be treated.
For a complete list of what we commonly treat here at the Gynecology Center click here.
Q - Why would I see an acupuncturist?
A -People typically begin acupuncture treatment to find relief from a wide range of gynecological conditions. What often begins as a concern over a few symptoms often transforms into deep personal healing that reaches far beyond the physical realm. The greatest reason to begin acupuncture treatment is to recover and to cultivate your awareness of the tremendous healing power of your body. Acupuncture awakens the senses, heals the body, lifts the spirit, and provides deep healing of the body. Many patients experience increased clarity, creativity and deeper meaning in their lives.
Q - How does acupuncture work?
A -There are more than 360 points on the body that connect with certain organs and modulate bodily functions. Point Groups on the body that apply to a specific organ or to functions are found along meridians which are specific pathways that exist inside the body and out, much like our nervous system. In a healthy, normally functioning body, the energy in these meridians flows freely, resulting in normal systemic function. When the flow of energy is interrupted or blocked from causes such as stress, injury or illness, this energy is reduced or impeded, blocking your "Qi". By performing acupuncture, balance and proper function of "Qi" are restored and heath is re-established.
Research suggests that acupuncture has a wide variety of effects on the brain and the body. Stimulated nerve fibers transmit signals to the spinal cord and brain, thus activating parts of the central nervous system. The spinal cord and brain then release certain hormones (endorphins, for example) responsible for making us feel better overal. In fact, a study using images of the brain confirmed that acupuncture increases our pain threshold which may explain its ability to produce long-term pain relief.
Acupuncture has been endorsed by the World Health Organization as an effective, natural treatment for over 42 different conditions. Acupuncture can increase blood circulation and body temperature. It may also affect white blood cell activity (responsible for our immune function), reduce cholesterol and triglyceride levels, and regulate blood sugar levels. In general, acupuncture appears to transmit its effects via electrical, neurological, hormonal, lymphatic, and electromagnetic wave pathways.
Q - What should I expect from my first visit and treatment?
A -Your acupuncturist will conduct a comprehensive evaluation at your first appointment, focusing on your health history and current concerns. Following your initial consultation, your first acupuncture treatment will be administered. You may experience an immediate, total or partial relief from symptoms. In general, the treatment of gynecological pathology is best achieved over a course of time usually spanning several months, depending on your age, the severity of the issue and the amount of time that the health concern has been manifest as well as your overall health. You will experience an intensity of energy and a sense of wellbeing and healing which results from the rebalancing of energy, making you look forward to future treatments.
Q - Does acupuncture hurt?
A -Most people are surprised and relieved to learn that acupuncture needles are extremely thin (and made from stainless steel) and completely unlike the hypodermic needles you’ve seen at the doctor's office. Our needling technique is very gentle, and we work closely with you to make sure your experience is a comfortable and positive one. Most patients experience a profound sense of relaxation and wellbeing during and after the treatment. All in all, acupuncture treatment provides an energizing while simultaneously calming experience.
Q - Is acupuncture safe?
A -Originating in China thousands of years ago, acupuncture has currently become the treatment of choice for one-fourth of the world's population. The needles are FDA approved, individually packaged, pre-sterilized and disposed of after a single use. There is no possibility of the transmission of communicable disease from patient to patient. There are no contraindications. It is totally 100% safe!
Q - How long do the treatments take?
A -Weekly 45 minute sessions usually include a relaxing acupuncture treatment to keep you moving in the optimal direction until maintenance can be established. During this time, significant signs of progress will appear. As you experience improvement and enjoy a greater sense of wellbeing, treatments may be extended to every other week, every three weeks, monthly or even seasonally.
Q - How many treatments will I need?
A -Since every person is unique, the numbers of treatments will vary. The nature, severity and history of each patient's condition are all factors that are involved in determining how many treatments will be necessary. For chronic conditions, successful treatment can take from one to six months. A treatment plan will be given to you at the conclusion of your evaluation.
In general, for purposes of prevention, regular weekly sessions release the build-up of daily pressure and tension and helps to prevent a multitude of stress related problems. For the treatment of conditions, the number of sessions varies, depending upon the nature of the individual problem. Usually, two treatments per week will be necessary, decreasing in frequency as the condition improves.
Q - How do I get the most out of my treatment?
A -On the day of your appointment, try to avoid the intake of alcohol, caffeine or pain medications and make sure to eat something light an hour or two before arriving. Also, schedule your appointment at an appropriate time of the day so that you are not in a hurry. Physically rushing to and from your appointment only diminishes the benefits of your care.
Q - Will it conflict with my other medications?
A -Acupuncture will not conflict with any of your medications. Acupuncture is used to complement medications and treatments provided to you by Western medical physicians.
Q - What is Chinese Herbal Medicine?
A -Chinese Herbal Medicine is a powerful method of healing used to balance the human body. Herbs are combined into complex and customized formulas that are specific to your individual case. When used appropriately, natural herbal medicine is safe and effective. We use only the highest quality herbs. Herbs not only address symptoms, they also nourish and balance the body in very specific ways, thereby improving organ function and building your constitution and immune system. In general, these powerful herbs can alter the disease process.
Q - Do I have to be sick to benefit from acupuncture?
A -No. An increasing percentage of the population is interested in preventive healthcare which focuses on creating optimal vitality as opposed to treating disease. Acupuncture is a powerful means to experience such radiant health throughout one’s life. Many people visit regularly for stress relief treatments, general "tune-ups" and/or to prevent illness. Some even come in to address psychological issues or to deepen their personal relationships.
Q - What is the history of acupuncture in America?
A -Acupuncture was developed over 2000 years ago in Asia. However, in the United States, the first publication on acupuncture did not appear until 1826. It was written by Bache Franklin, M.D., the great grandson of Benjamin Franklin. In 1892, Sir William Osler, B.T., M.D., FBS, in his fundamental work "the Principles and Practice of Medicine," featured acupuncture as the recommended treatment for lumbago (back pain). After this time and due to the rapid advance of Western medicine and biological science in the beginning of twentieth century, the practice and benefits of acupuncture were marginalized. Furthermore, after the 1920's acupuncture was rarely used except within Chinatowns across the US.
It was not until 1971 that an interest in acupuncture becomes revived. Former President Nixon took a trip to China and had to have an emergency appendectomy at the Anti-Imperialist Hospital in Peking. Acupuncture anesthesia was used during the procedure, and his post operative pain was relieved by acupuncture itself.
All of this was reported by James Reston of the New York Times, and this brought great publicity to acupuncture and a renewed interest in this form of treatment.
In 1996, needles were removed from the "investigative" category and were considered ‘accepted medical instruments.’ In 1997, The National Institutes of Health issued the Consensus Statement that recognized "Acupuncture as a therapeutic intervention which is widely practiced in the United States" and "may be useful as an adjunct treatment or an acceptable alternative or be included in a comprehensive health management program." Since then, the NIH has formed a department of Alternative Healthcare to provide research funding for alternative avenues of medical care.
