Acupuncture for Menopause in North Vancouver

Overview

Menopause is reached 12 months after your last period, usually between the ages of 45 and 55, and the years leading up to it are called perimenopause. As hormone levels shift, many people experience hot flashes, night sweats, sleep problems, mood changes, vaginal dryness and changes in their periods. Menopause can also follow surgery or some cancer treatments.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, menopause symptoms are often understood as an imbalance of yin and yang, and are assessed together with sleep, stress and energy. At AcuLife Wellness, we start by understanding your symptoms, cycle history and any treatment you're using, such as hormone therapy, before recommending an approach.

How Acupuncture & Herbal Medicine May Be Used

Acupuncture for menopause usually uses points on the arms, legs, abdomen and back chosen for your pattern, with treatment adjusted as symptoms change. Where appropriate, Chinese herbal medicine may be suggested alongside acupuncture; Hong will review your medications and health history first, including hormone therapy and any history of hormone-sensitive conditions such as breast cancer.

Some studies suggest acupuncture may reduce how often or how strongly hot flashes occur, and may improve sleep and quality of life for some people, though results vary. Acupuncture can be used alongside hormone therapy or other treatments your physician recommends; it doesn't replace medical care.

What to Expect

Your first visit includes a conversation about your symptoms, cycle history, sleep and current treatments, followed by an individualized assessment and treatment. Visits are often weekly at first and spaced out as symptoms settle.

If sleep is your biggest concern, see our insomnia page for more.

Frequently Asked Questions