Are you experiencing hot flashes that have nothing to do with the weather? You might be experiencing menopause. Although menopause typically occurs between the ages of 45-56, menopause can occur earlier if you are receiving chemotherapy, or if you’re using hormone replacement therapy (either because of chemotherapy, or because you’re transgender and transitioning). Same people continue to experience menopausal symptoms such as hot flash flare ups well into their 70’s.

Menopause occurs when the ovaries stop producing hormones, such as estrogen and progesterone. Symptoms of menopause include:

• Hot flashes
• Insomnia
• Anxiety and/or depression
• Headaches
• Vaginal dryness
• Urinary problems

Acupuncture can help alleviate some of the symptoms of menopause by altering the flow of energy throughout the body. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) teaches us that we are born with a certain amount of energy (yin). Yin keeps the body moist and cool. In hot flashes the yin (internal fluids of the body) dry up over time and the heat/fire flares upward. Acupuncture points that target the kidneys can help your kidneys retain energy. This can help reduce the frequency (and intensity) of hot flashes.

Insomnia and anxiety are related to heart yin. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, or the heart is the center of operations. It controls the flow of yin and blood throught the body. Decreased heart yin can cause insomnia because heart yin cools and calms the body.

Give The Gathering Point Community Acupuncture a call and get your Qi balanced. You’ll feel a lot cooler, and you’ll sleep better, too.