This 2013 low libido acupuncture research study evaluated the benefit of acupuncture on sexual dysfunction in patients taking antidepressant medications. The results showed that acupuncture improved libido and other sexual functions.
Low Libido Acupuncture Research
Antidepressants, including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), often cause sexual dysfunction. Rates can be as high as 50%-90%. New research is finding that acupuncture may be an effective treatment for sexual dysfunction. Areas of improvement include impotence, loss of libido and an inability to orgasm.
OBJECTIVES
The purpose of this study was to examine the potential benefits of acupuncture in the treatment of sexual dysfunction due to SSRIs and SNRIs.
SUBJECTS
Practitioners enrolled participants who were experiencing adverse sexual events from their antidepressant medication to the Mood and Anxiety Disorders clinic in Toronto, Canada.
DESIGN
Participants received a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) assessment and followed an acupuncture protocol for 12 consecutive weeks. The following acupuncture points were used: KD 3, GV 4, BL 23, HT 7 and PC 6. Participants completed a questionnaire on a weekly basis to track their progress.
OUTCOMES
The questionnaire package consisted of self-report measurements assessing symptoms of depression, anxiety and different aspects of sexual function.
RESULTS
Significant improvement among male participants was noted in all areas of sexual functioning, as well as in both anxiety and depression symptoms. Female participants reported a significant improvement in libido and lubrication.
CONCLUSIONS
This low libido acupuncture research study suggests a potential role for acupuncture in the treatment of the sexual side-effects of SSRI and SNRI medications. In addition, it shows a potential benefit of integrating Western and Chinese medicine in the treatment of depression.
Improved Libido With Acupuncture
There are many causes of low libido. This low libido acupuncture research study supports our own experience at Raleigh Acupuncture. Whether it’s depression, menopause, stress or trauma, acupuncture heals the body, mind and spirit. Once balance is restored, sexual function often returns naturally.
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References
J Altern Complement Med. 2013 Nov;19(11):862-9. doi: 10.1089/acm.2012.0751. Epub 2013 Jun 21.
Efficacy of acupuncture treatment of sexual dysfunction secondary to antidepressants.
Khamba B1, Aucoin M, Lytle M, Vermani M, Maldonado A, Iorio C, Cameron C, Tsirgielis D, D’Ambrosio C, Anand L, Katzman MA.PMID: 23790229 DOI: 10.1089/acm.2012.0751
What our Clients are Saying
For the past three years my energy has been low, stopped exercising, feeling depressed and no libido. Went to Raleigh Acupuncture because a friend of mine lost weight there. The doctor was very caring and motivated to make me feel better. It’s worked great. My energy is up, I’m walking again three times a week and amazingly my libido is back.
Came in for low libido. Was not expecting much. Very impressed with the results. I feel normal again! Thank you Raleigh Acupuncture!
Since my stroke two years ago, my libido disappeared. Before the stroke it had been very healthy. So I was more than pleasantly surprised when I got acupuncture. I went for my knees, as they were telling me I needed a double knee replacement. The knee pain went away, but just as good, my libido returned.
