Women have turned to Traditional Chinese Medicine for thousands of years to help with all aspects of their health and wellness needs.  Unlike western options, often times this natural modality provides outcomes that are more sustained and longer lasting.  New York-based Acupuncturist Megan Crouse, LAc, shares her experience of treating menstrual cramp through the natural healing powers of Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine.

Sorry to burst your hot water bottle bubble, but Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine is even better at treating menstrual cramps…

I know, because growing up I had the worst cramps. I dreaded my period each month, but I accepted cramps as a “normal” part of womanhood, as did my sisters and many of my friends. It wasn't until an Acupuncturist explained to me that cramps, pain and discomfort during my period wasn’t “normal”….that cramps were a message from my body telling me that I was out of balance, hormonally and energetically. She explained that a healthy and balanced body should have a relatively comfortable period, cramp free.

This news shocked me.

Even more shocking was that after 3 months of getting regular Acupuncture treatments and taking Chinese herbs, my cramps were totally gone.

Even more shocking was that after 3 months of getting regular Acupuncture treatments and taking Chinese herbs, my cramps were totally gone. Inspired, I decided to earn my degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine, and to focus on treating women's health conditions with Acupuncture. Now, I get to be the one to inform other women that they don't have to be in pain!

Your Hormones, Meridians, Qi & Acupuncture

The menstrual cycle is a delicate process that is easily disrupted by stress, overwork, fatigue, and diet. A woman’s cycle involves a number of hormones working in harmony, and if one hormone is out of balance, it creates a cascade of imbalance that can result in cramps, pain, and symptoms of PMS.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine terms, there are "meridians" (energy pathways) that flow to the female reproductive organs. For the ovaries and uterus to be in balance, the kidneys, liver and spleen meridians must also be in balance.

Additionally, for natural hormonal transitions to occur throughout the menstrual cycle, our Qi (energy) and blood need to circulate smoothly. When Qi and blood circulation is sluggish or obstructed, our hormone transitions become disrupted, causing significant discomfort.  

That's where Chinese medicine come into play. Acupuncture  encourages the smooth flow of Qi and healthy blood circulation. It also stimulates the body’s own healing process and natural production of hormones, helping to restore health and harmony to the entire reproductive system. Chinese herbs are an incredible way to enhance the profound effects of regular acupuncture treatments. 

Six Additional Recommendations to Support Your Qi & Your Cycle

In addition to getting regular Acupuncture treatment and taking Chinese herbs when prescribed, here are some suggestions to make your period a more comfortable, less dreaded time of the month:

1.     Get regular cardio exercise, especially during the week before your period. This moves Qi and blood and smooths hormonal transitions.

2.     Avoid alcohol, coffee, salt and processed foods, especially during the week before your period. This reduces inflammation.

3.     Eat plenty of vegetables, particularly cruciferous vegetables and dark leafy greens. Prioritize unsaturated fats such as olive oil and whole grains such as brown rice and oatmeal. This ensures healthy hormone production.

4.     Apply castor oil packs to your low abdomen before and during your period to improve blood circulation and reduce cramping in the area.

5.     Take the following vitamins, as needed: 

Magnesium 200mg/day for cramps, bloating and sweet cravings, Vitamin B6 60mg/day for cramps, bloating, breast tenderness, and mood swings, Turmeric 1 capsule/day for cramps and bloating, Rhodiola 200mg/day for hormone regulation and anxiety, Fish Oil/Omega 3 2000mg/day for cramps, Calcium 1200mg/day for weepiness, Vitamin E 400mg/day for breast tenderness.

6.     Whether for fertility planning or to provide a more natural, peaceful and predictable monthly cycle, the Women’s Monthly Kit by DAO Labs pairs two different Chinese herbal formulas, for two different phases of your cycle.

• Emotional Balance is used during the PMS phase of her month to reduce stress, mood swings, irritability, fatigue and all the funk that can proceed a cycle.
• After bleeding ends, Women’s Formula is used for 4-5 days for better energy, natural replenishment and regularity as you progress into your next cycle.

Megan Crouse, L.Ac. is a board-certified acupuncturist with a Master's degree from Pacific College of Oriental Medicine. Her passion is women's health: She specializes in treating gynecological conditions, infertility, discomfort in pregnancy, PMS, and menopause, and takes particular joy in helping couples conceive naturally. Learn more about Megan and Modern Roots Acupuncture at modernrootsacu.com.