As menstrual pain specialists we know the symptoms PMS often cause include bloating, irritability, fatigue or even anxiety or pain in the abdomen, back, pelvis and other areas of the body. While there are products on the market that claim to offer relief from these symptoms, we believe in addressing the underlying cause using East Asian medicine, acupuncture and other therapies proven to reduce or eliminate the symptoms by promoting better overall health and healing the body.PMS or premenstrual syndrome is something many women experience every month; for some it can disrupt daily life. Menstrual pain can be severe as well for many women who haven't found relief through traditional Western medicine or treatments. Our menstrual pain doctors know that this pain or discomfort often relates directly to proper functioning of the energetic kidney system, energetic liver system, and the condition of the energetic blood. Stress and emotional or hormone imbalances can also play a role. Through therapy and treatments including acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine,  lifestyle recommendations, and focus on nutrition, pain and symptoms can be reduced dramatically if not fully eliminated.

Acupuncture is often considered for addressing premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms and menstrual cramps. While individual responses can vary, some potential ways in which acupuncture may help include:

1. Pain Relief: Acupuncture is known for its potential to alleviate pain, including the abdominal and pelvic pain associated with menstrual cramps. The release of endorphins, the body's natural pain-relieving chemicals, may contribute to pain relief.
2. Regulation of Hormones: Acupuncture influences hormonal balance by modulating the endocrine system. This can be particularly relevant for PMS symptoms, as hormonal fluctuations can contribute to mood swings, irritability, and other symptoms.
3. Reduction of Inflammation: Acupuncture has anti-inflammatory effects for individuals experiencing inflammation-related symptoms during PMS or menstruation, such as bloating.
4. Stress Reduction: Acupuncture is known for its stress-reducing effects. Stress can exacerbate PMS symptoms, and by promoting relaxation, acupuncture may help manage stress levels.
5. Improved Blood Flow: Enhance blood circulation improvs blood flow which alleviates cramps by promoting oxygenation and nutrient delivery to the pelvic region.
6. Balancing Energy Flow (Qi): Traditional Chinese medicine principles suggest that acupuncture helps balance the body's vital energy, known as Qi. Imbalances in Qi are believed to contribute to various health issues, including menstrual irregularities.
7. Regulation of the Autonomic Nervous System: Acupuncture may influence the autonomic nervous system, helping to balance the sympathetic (fight-or-flight) and parasympathetic (rest and digest) branches. This modulation can contribute to overall relaxation.

Acupuncture influences hormonal balance by modulating the endocrine system. Hormonal imbalances can contribute to irregular menstrual cycles and heavy bleeding, and acupuncture may help restore balance. For women experiencing heavy menstrual bleeding, improved blood flow may help regulate the flow and reduce excessive bleeding.

Additionally, acupuncture may help relax the uterine muscles, reducing tension and spasms that can contribute to heavy menstrual bleeding. Traditional Chinese medicine principles suggest that acupuncture helps balance the body's vital energy, known as Qi. Imbalances in Qi are believed to contribute to various health issues, including menstrual irregularities.