Acupuncture – A Happy Ending

I was watching Oprah today and one of the topics was acupuncture. It reminded me of my experience with it.

About 15 years ago, my periods became very irregular. I went to my gynecologist and was diagnosed with poly-cystic ovarian disease. My gynecologist said the only treatment he had available was birth control pills to regulate my cycle. He said it was important to do so in order to reduce the risk for cancer.

I really don’t like the side effects of birth control pills. I am one of those women who get worse PMS when on the pill. I was also in my mid-30’s and I smoked. I know, I needed to quit smoking, but I was still in my mid-30’s.

I had a friend who was training to be an acupuncturist. Although she was not yet qualified to treat anyone, she knew where to send me. Even though I am highly phobic of needles, I was more willing to try them than birth control pills. My gynecologist agreed that it was worth a try.

I received about 8 treatments from this acupuncturist. After each visit, I was given herbs and instructed to make an infusion (tea) that I was to drink each day. The acupuncturist told me that I may need a “tune-up” once a year or so.

My cycle was regulated! Indeed for a year, I did not miss a single period. Then, I began to be a bit late and I went back for that “tune-up” (no herbs this time) and have not had to go back since. My cycle remains regular. Of course, I am looking forward to menopause so I can be done with it entirely, but naturally.

There were no side effects to the acupuncture treatment. I never had to go on birth control pills and I lost 20 pounds! (The acupuncturist said it was because my “fire” element was too strong and my body had been compensating by retaining fluids in the form of cysts and fat. Go figure.) It was amazing. I did not even mind the needles too much. My gynecologist was thrilled with the results as well.

On a side note: My gynecologist wanted to regulate my periods because he said that irregular periods increased the risk for cancer. Now, I see ads for pills to reduce the number of periods a woman has every year…???