Pelvic Floor Symptoms? Your Acupuncturist Can Help!
Pelvic Floor symptoms can seriously impact quality of life. There are a few studies out there that support this statement.
In a study of 627 pregnant women, urinary incontinence symptoms are associated with a negative impact on quality of life.
In a study of 1446 women in Spain, women who have a pelvic floor dysfunction, symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse, colorectal-anal symptoms, or urinary symptoms, have a worse perceived quality of life in all dimensions. Prolapse symptoms have the biggest impact.
In a study of 72 women with a mean age of 51.7, greater discomfort due to pelvic floor dysfunction symptoms were correlated with a worse quality of life.
If you’re experiencing urinary incontinence, fecal incontinence, pelvic pain, sexual dysfunction, prolapse or any other condition of the pelvic floor, you don’t need a research study to tell you that your life is impacted by your symptoms.
But there’s some good news! Your acupuncturist might have the keys to help you! Here’s how:
Pain Management: Acupuncture is often used to manage pelvic pain associated with conditions such as endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), or musculoskeletal issues. Acupuncturists may use acupuncture, ashi points (dry needling) moxibustion, manual therapy, herbs, and nutritional guidance to help you reduce your pain.
Menstrual Disorders: For clients experiencing menstrual irregularities or disorders, acupuncture can be used to regulate the menstrual cycle, address issues like dysmenorrhea (painful periods) irregular periods, heavy bleeding, or amenorrhea. Woo et al found “The results of this study suggest that acupuncture might reduce menstrual pain and associated symptoms more effectively compared to no treatment or NSAIDs…”
Fertility Support: Acupuncture is commonly employed as part of fertility treatments. It may improve reproductive health by enhancing blood flow to the reproductive organs, regulating hormonal balance, and reducing stress.
Urinary Incontinence: Acupuncture and electroacupuncture may help strengthen the pelvic floor muscles and improve bladder control in individuals experiencing urinary incontinence.
Gastrointestinal Disorders: For clients with pelvic health issues related to gastrointestinal disorders (which is way more common than you think!), acupuncture, Chinese nutrition and herbs can be used to regulate digestive function and alleviate symptoms.
Stress Reduction: Endorphins Included!!!! Acupuncture has stress-reducing effects, which can be beneficial for individuals with pelvic health dysfunction exacerbated by stress. It may help regulate the body's stress response and promote relaxation.
Support for Menopausal Symptoms: Acupuncture and herbs may provide relief from menopausal symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, and sleep disturbances by balancing hormonal fluctuations.
Enhancing Blood Circulation: ‘Stagnation is the root of all disease’ is an ancient Chinese Medicine Proverb. Acupuncture moves stagnation by improving blood circulation to the pelvic organs, promoting healing.
Emotions: Emotional imbalances can be significantly improved with acupuncture. That’s because acupuncture works on the body and the spirit. In fact, 5 Element Acupuncture is based primarily on the spirit of the points, which means, your acupuncturist chooses a point based on what your body and spirit crave. For example, if you’re feeling like you can’t get out of your own way, your acupuncturist might choose a point like Spleen 8, Earth Motivator.
Do yourself a favor, give your acupuncturist a call and see if they might be able to help you improve your quality of life through addressing the pelvic floor.
Click here to be directed to my Pelvic Care Calendar!
References:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28417155/