The menopause is defined by an absence of a menstrual period for at least 12 months and is characterised by declining oestrogen and progesterone levels.

Many women suffer from a variety of symptoms during the menopause, the most common being hot flushes, night sweats, anxiety, mood disorders, sleep disorders and brain fog. These can all have a huge impact on everyday life both at home and in the workplace.

Some of these symptoms can occur in peri-menopause and the average duration of symptoms into menopause is 7 years.

Studies have shown that acupuncture can have a significant effect on reducing hot flushes and night sweats and help with general levels of anxiety and stress.

What Causes Hot Flushes? 

Hot flushes are associated with lowered oestrogen levels, this influences the ability of the centre in the hypothalamus which regulates temperature control. If the body’s core temperature exceeds the upper temperature set point, perspiration and peripheral vasodilation occurs which leads to a flush sensation.

How Does Acupuncture Work? 

It is thought that acupuncture stimulation causes the release of beta-endorphins which help with thermoregulation by reducing the activity in the hypothalamus and hence reducing the core temperature. It also has an inhibitory effect on a powerful vasodilator which is released during a hot flush.

Recent studies have shown that 8 sessions of acupuncture yield a very good effect on hot flushes and night sweats and an increased quality of life.

Advice from our clinician Maxine… 

I have been treating menopausal patients for over two years using acupuncture with very good results for symptoms including hot flushes, night sweats and anxiety. I treat patients once a week and I normally start to see a reduction in symptoms after the first couple of sessions. Of course every patient is different and some may have 3-4 sessions with a long lasting duration, other patients may require more sessions – I tailor the needs of each patient requirements individually.

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About Maxine 

Maxine graduated in 2001 with a 2:1 BSc (Hons) in Physiotherapy from Coventry University. She worked as a Clinical Specialist Physiotherapist within the NHS and Private Hospital. Her main areas of interest include acupuncture, chronic pain and core stability.