Zero PMS?

By Dr. Dalite Sancic, DACM, L.Ac., MS

Did you know that in an ideal world, you would have minimal PMS symptoms and discomfort during your period?  

The reality is that a balanced monthly cycle should come without big warning signs like a migraine or bad cramps to remind you that your period is approaching.

In East Asian Medicine, that is the goal. 

We have been told that our period will be uncomfortable. If you have abdominal cramping, mood swings, changes in digestion, fatigue, etc., these  symptoms are considered somewhat “expected.” Yes, some people suffer more than others, but it is what it is. However, just because something in COMMON does not make it NORMAL.  

Let’s view the period through an Eastern Medicine lens:  

One of the big concepts in EAM is Qi, which translates (very roughly) into life force or energy. It is the force that causes all movement and change in the world and in the body.  

So whenever there is a transition, there is a Qi requirement – an amount of “energy” needed  to move the body from one phase to the next. But Qi can get “stuck” or become too insufficient to make the transition, which then causes symptoms and discomfort.  

In the menstrual cycle, there is the follicular phase (days 1-14) and the luteal phase (days  15-28). To transition from the follicular to the luteal phase (ovulation) requires Qi. And to transition from the luteal back to the follicular phase (moving through the period), also requires Qi – perhaps even an extra little boost to get through the period.  

So the period is a cycle fraught with transitions, constantly requiring Qi to move from one  phase to the next. There are plenty of opportunities for stagnation and symptoms to arise. Which means the goal of acupuncture is to help the body move smoothly from one phase to the next.  

When this smooth movement occurs, symptoms should be minimal. 

How does acupuncture help the menstrual cycle flow smoothly from one phase to the next?  

• Regulating hormones like estrogen, progesterone, androgens, etc. 

• Improving blood flow to organs like the ovaries and uterus, which provides more   oxygen and nutrients that they need to function optimally 

• Reducing muscle contractions (for example, of the uterus, aka period cramps) 

• Helping provide optimal growing environment for follicles and their eggs 

A normal period, without symptoms is possible.

There’s no reason to suffer every month. We’d love to help! We’ll tailor a plan just for you  and your unique body’s needs.  

If you are not yet a patient, call 802-855-8547 or email us at info@moonbrookmedicine.com to schedule a free 15 minute consultation or schedule your appointment today. If you are already a patient and struggling, talk to your provider to come up with a treatment plan. Feel free to pass this along to a friend or family member that you think may benefit from this information.