Menopause is when you stop having periods due to hormonal changes. It affects an estimated 13 million women in the UK and can feel like navigating a winding mountain path – unpredictable twists, unexpected turns, and sometimes, the unwelcome companions of hot flashes, anxiety, and insomnia.
While conventional Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) remains a common option offered by the NHS, there is an increasing demand for alternative therapies like (TCM) Traditional Chinese Medicine for menopause. This article will explain exactly what those treatments are, and how TCM can help symptoms of menopause.
How Does TCM Work For Menopause?
Unlike Western medicine's focus on specific symptoms, which can sometimes miss the bigger picture, TCM views the body as an interconnected web of energy (Qi) flowing through meridians. Menopause, in TCM terms, is often attributed to the fading of "Kidney Yin", the essence of youth. This ebb and flow, though natural, can manifest as hot flashes, night sweats, emotional swings, and sleep disturbances.
By viewing menopause as a shift in Qi (life energy) and Yin-Yang balance, TCM tackles not just the symptoms, but the root cause of the disharmony, and subsequent symptoms.
The Benefits of Traditional Chinese Medicine For Menopause
Here are some potential benefits of trying TCM for menopause:
Alleviation of symptoms: From hot flashes and night sweats to insomnia and mood swings, TCM offers gentle, yet effective approaches to manage a wide range of menopausal discomforts.
Holistic well-being: TCM goes beyond symptom relief, promoting overall well-being by reducing stress, improving sleep, and fostering emotional balance.
Empowerment: TCM equips you with self-care tools and lifestyle practices, empowering you to actively participate in your own healing journey.
TCM Treatments for Natural Menopause Relief
Acupuncture
The gentle insertion of hair-thin needles at specific points stimulates Qi flow, harmonising Yin and Yang. Research shows that acupuncture can alleviate several symptoms of menopause, including hot flashes, night sweats, insomnia, anxiety, depression, fatigue, mood swings, headaches, migraine, palpitations, and pain (low back pain, neck pain, joint pain, etc.). We use Chinese acupuncture for menopause at our clinic and have had some incredible results!
You can book an acupuncture appointment here: book appointment
Meditation
Meditation is effective in reducing the frequency of hot flashes and night sweats, and improving emotional well-being in menopausal women. A recent study discovered that being mindful may be especially helpful for menopausal women struggling with anxiety and depression, with women having higher mindfulness scores experiencing fewer menopausal symptoms.
You can book a meditation appointment with us here: book appointment
Massage
Menopause can be a stressful time due to hormonal fluctuations and life changes. Massage triggers the release of endorphins, the body's natural feel-good chemicals, promoting relaxation and reducing stress hormones like cortisol. This can alleviate anxiety, improve mood, and contribute to better sleep quality. Massage can relieve musculoskeletal pain associated with menopause, and also regulate the body’s fluid balance, and rebalance hormone levels, which can be beneficial during menopause.
You can book a massage with us here: book appointment
Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)
Ok, this one isn't technically TCM but we have seen incredible results at our clinic so we couldn't leave it out! This is a gentle and non-invasive approach to alleviating menopausal symptoms. This targeted therapy utilises infrared or near-infrared light to stimulate cellular activity, promoting tissue repair and reducing inflammation. Studies suggest LLLT can be effective in managing several menopausal discomforts, including:
Vaginal dryness and atrophy: LLLT stimulates collagen production and blood flow in the vaginal tissues, potentially improving lubrication and elasticity.
Hot flashes: While the mechanism isn't fully understood, research suggests LLLT may influence thermoregulatory centres in the brain, potentially reducing hot flash frequency and intensity.
Pain and discomfort: The anti-inflammatory effects of LLLT can ease musculoskeletal pain associated with menopause, such as joint pain, back pain, and headaches. You can read more about how LLLT works in our blog.
You can book an LLLT appointment with us here: book appointment
Is Traditional Chinese Medicine Right For Me?
Understanding whether TCM resonates with you can unlock a powerful wellspring of healing and support during this transitional time.
First, consider your perspective on health and well-being. Do you seek a holistic approach that addresses not just physical symptoms but also your emotional and spiritual balance? If so, TCM's emphasis on the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit might feel like a comfortable fit. It delves deeper than a mere checklist of symptoms, seeking the root cause of imbalances that manifest in hot flashes, sleep disturbances, or anxiety.
Second, think about your openness to trying alternative therapies. TCM utilises unique treatments like acupuncture, massage, and meditation. If you're intrigued by natural approaches and willing to try something new, TCM offers a treasure trove of tools to explore. However, if the very idea of trying something new makes you uneasy, it might be better to focus on other avenues that align with your comfort level.
Third, remember that TCM is not a one-size-fits-all solution. As individual as snowflakes, every woman experiences menopause differently. A thorough consultation with a qualified TCM practitioner is crucial. At our clinic, for example, we will assess your unique constitution, symptoms, and preferences to tailor a personalised treatment plan that resonates with your needs and goals.
Menopause might feel like uncharted territory, but with TCM as your compass, you can navigate this transition with grace and serenity. By understanding your "Kidney Yin" and the role of Qi in balancing your body and mind, you can choose therapies like acupuncture, meditation, massage and LLLT to nurture your spirit, reclaim your energy, and blossom into the radiant woman you are meant to be.
We always recommend consulting with a professional TCM practitioner first, which is why we offer a FREE telephone consultation if you are unsure which treatment would be most beneficial for you. Get in touch today via email info@whitetaraclinic.com or call 01273 956 845
DISCLAIMER: All content is provided for general information only and should not taken for medical advice. White Tara Clinic is not responsible or liable for any diagnosis made by a user based on the content of this site.