Acupuncture offers a holistic and natural approach to address these conditions, restoring balance and improving overall reproductive health.  At Yin, we support people at all stages of their menstrual journey, ensuring that menstrual health is optimised not only for immediate relief but also for long term reproductive wellness. A key connection between menstrual health and our other area of focus, fertility, is the understanding that healthy menstrual cycles are vital for optimal fertility during the preconception phase.

The Chinese Medicine Perspective on Menstrual Cycles

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the menstrual cycle is closely linked to the health of the Liver, Spleen, and Kidney systems, which govern blood production, hormonal balance, and emotional wellbeing.  A healthy cycle is typically seen as a smooth, pain-free period with moderate flow and minimal symptoms of discomfort. Any deviation from this can indicate imbalances that need to be addressed.

Here is an overview of how we view various stages and menstrual conditions in Chinese medicine and at Yin:

Menarche

The beginning of menstruation, or menarche, can be an overwhelming time for adolescents as their bodies adjust to new hormonal rhythms. Irregular periods, painful cramps, and mood swings are common as their reproductive systems establish equilibrium. From a Chinese medicine (TCM) perspective, imbalances in the flow of Qi and blood during this transition can manifest as pain or irregularity. Acupuncture helps to regulate Qi and blood, ensuring that the body’s natural rhythms align. This gentle support establishes the groundwork for balanced fertility in later life (1).

Period Pain (Dysmenorrhea)

Period pain (dysmenorrhea) is frequently linked to stagnation of Qi and blood within the reproductive system in TCM. This stagnation can lead to severe cramping and discomfort during menstruation. Acupuncture addresses the underlying causes of this stagnation, such as cold, heat, or Qi deficiency, by promoting smooth energy flow and improving blood circulation. This not only alleviates immediate symptoms but can also help prevent future episodes of pain. By balancing the body’s internal environment, regular acupuncture sessions create the conditions for comfortable menstrual cycles and enhanced fertility during the preconception phase. 

Surprisingly, although there is moderate evidence (2) for acupuncture reducing period pain, the research for dysmenorrhea is not as strong as the results we typically see in clinic.  We often have clients who come for other conditions (eg fertility) and notice the added benefit of their period pain reducing.  

Cycles that are too long, too short, or unpredictable can indicate imbalances in hormone regulation, stress, or underlying conditions like polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Studies suggest that acupuncture may help regulate the menstrual cycle by supporting the body’s natural rhythms (1).

Amenorrhea (Absence of Periods)

Amenorrhea, the absence of menstruation, can be understood in TCM as an extreme deficiency of blood or Qi, or sometimes as a result of Qi and blood stagnation blocking the channels. Acupuncture works by replenishing the body’s vital energy (Qi) and encouraging the smooth flow of blood, helping to restore regular periods. By addressing the underlying imbalances, acupuncture enhances reproductive health, which can improve fertility for those trying to conceive.

Whether due to excessive exercise, limited nutrition, stress, hormonal imbalances, or conditions like PCOS, the absence of a period is a sign that the body is out of balance. Acupuncture can help restore regular menstruation by nourishing blood and regulating hormones (3).

Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a condition where endometrial tissue grows outside the uterus, often causing severe pain and often fertility challenges.  From a TCM perspective, it can be seen as a combination of blood stasis, damp accumulation, and Qi stagnation in the uterus and pelvic area. These imbalances can contribute to the chronic pain and heavy bleeding associated with the condition. 

Acupuncture addresses these symptoms by promoting the movement of Qi and blood, reducing stasis, and clearing dampness from the body.  Additionally, research shows that acupuncture may help alleviate endometriosis-related pain and reduce the severity of symptoms through its effects on the immune system and inflammation pathways (4). By creating balance within the body, acupuncture helps to improve fertility outcomes and reduce the impact of endometriosis on daily life (5).

You can read more about acupuncture and endometriosis in our blog – https://www.fertilityacupuncturebrisbane.com/endometriosis-and-acupuncture/

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)

PCOS is a complex hormonal condition that can cause irregular or absent periods, acne, weight changes, and difficulty conceiving.  In TCM, PCOS is often viewed as an accumulation of phlegm and dampness in the body, which obstructs the ovaries and disrupts normal hormonal regulation. This is often combined with underlying kidney Qi deficiency, which impacts reproductive health. Acupuncture works by clearing this phlegm and dampness, supporting the spleen and kidney systems, and regulating the hormonal balance to improve ovarian function. By encouraging the body to return to its natural balance, acupuncture supports more regular ovulation, improves insulin resistance and better reproductive health (6).

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) and Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)

Premenstrual symptoms such as mood swings, bloating, breast tenderness, headaches and fatigue can significantly impact quality of life.  In TCM, PMS and PMDD often involve imbalances in liver Qi, which can lead to emotional disturbances, irritability, and physical symptoms like bloating or breast tenderness.  The Liver (in TCM thinking) is responsible for the smooth flow of Qi throughout the body, and when this flow is disrupted, symptoms of PMS and PMDD can occur. Acupuncture helps to soothe Liver Qi, calm the mind, and regulate hormones, leading to fewer premenstrual symptoms and better overall balance.

By addressing the root cause, acupuncture creates an environment where emotional stability and reproductive health can flourish.  Acupuncture has been shown to help regulate hormonal fluctuations, calm the nervous system, and reduce stress-related symptoms (7).

Read more about perimenopause in our blog – https://www.fertilityacupuncturebrisbane.com/endometriosis-and-acupuncture/

Knowing Your Body

The signs and symptoms of your menstrual cycle reveal a great deal about your overall health from a Chinese medicine perspective.

As TCM practitioners, we ask detailed questions about your menstrual cycle to get a clear picture of your overall health. We look at the type and timing of any pain, the colour and amount of your menstrual blood, the length and regularity of your cycle, and any PMS symptoms you experience. We’ll also ask about clots, spotting, the quality of your cervical mucus, and how you feel emotionally and physically throughout your cycle. All these details help guide a personalised treatment approach.

Menstrual Health and Fertility

Menstrual health is about more than just your period – it is a reflection of your overall health and vitality. In Chinese medicine, the menstrual cycle is a key indicator of balance in the body, influencing digestion, sleep, mood, energy levels, and long-term wellbeing. When menstrual health is well-supported, it creates a foundation for optimal health throughout all life stages.

Whether you are preparing for pregnancy or seeking relief from menstrual symptoms, acupuncture provides a natural, safe, and effective way to optimise menstrual health and support fertility. By addressing the root causes of menstrual irregularities and promoting balance throughout the menstrual cycle, acupuncture can help you achieve both immediate relief and long-term reproductive and overall wellness.

We are passionate about working in this space because we see firsthand how deeply menstrual health impacts every aspect of life. Our team has undertaken additional studies in both Western and Chinese medicine, specifically focusing on menstrual health and the conditions that flow on from it, including fertility, pregnancy, postpartum, and perimenopause.  By integrating this knowledge with the holistic principles of acupuncture and TCM, we aim to provide tailored treatments that address the root causes of menstrual imbalances and empower people to feel their best at every stage of life.