This PMS case report examines the positive effects of acupuncture in mitigating severe premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms in a 32-year-old woman. The patient presented with debilitating symptoms, including cramping, breast tenderness, bloating, depression, and migraines. The study demonstrates significant improvement in symptom severity and overall quality of life after a series of acupuncture treatments over three months.
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)
PMS is a common condition characterized by a range of physical and psychological symptoms that occur in the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. These symptoms can significantly impair a woman’s quality of life. Conventional treatments, such as hormonal therapy or pain medications, may not always provide satisfactory relief and can have associated adverse effects. Complementary and alternative therapies, such as acupuncture, have gained attention for their potential in managing PMS symptoms.
PMS Case report
Patient Information
- Age: 32
- Gender: Female
- Medical History: No significant underlying medical conditions or allergies
Presenting PMS Complaints
The patient reported experiencing severe PMS symptoms for the past five years. Symptoms typically emerged 10-14 days before menstruation and included:
- Severe abdominal cramping
- Pronounced breast tenderness
- Bloating and abdominal discomfort
- Intense mood swings and depression
- Recurring migraines
These symptoms led to a significant reduction in the patient’s daily functioning and overall quality of life.
Acupuncture PMS Intervention
A friend introduced the patient to acupuncture as a potential complementary therapy to address her debilitating PMS symptoms. We conducted a thorough assessment, including a detailed medical history and evaluation of the patient’s current symptomatology. Based on the Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) diagnostic framework, the patient was diagnosed with Liver Qi stagnation and Blood deficiency, both of which are common patterns associated with PMS.
We administered acupuncture sessions once a week for an initial four weeks, at which time the patient assessed her progress. She noticed improvement and wanted to continue treatment. As such, she continued weekly therapy for an additional eight weeks, for a total of twelve sessions.
PMS Acupuncture Protocol
The treatment protocol in this PMS case report consisted of acupuncture points targeting the Liver and Spleen meridians, with a focus on regulating Qi flow, nourishing Blood, and harmonizing hormonal imbalances.
Acupoints in her treatment included LV3, SP6, ST36, CV4, CV12, LI4, GV20, Yintang, and Auricuilar point Shenmen. We also prescribed the Chinese herbal formula Xiao Yao Pian, which she took for the first four weeks of her treatment.
Case Outcome and Follow-Up
After the initial four weeks of acupuncture treatment, the patient reported a noticeable reduction in the severity of her PMS symptoms. By the end of the twelve-week treatment period, the patient experienced significant improvements across all presenting complaints.
- Abdominal cramping: Reduced from severe to mild or no discomfort.
- Breast tenderness: Markedly decreased, almost non-existent.
- Bloating and abdominal discomfort: Minimal occurrence, no longer interfering with daily activities.
- Mood swings and depression: Substantially improved, with significantly improved emotional stability.
- Migraines: Decreased in frequency and intensity by 90 percent.
The patient reported an overall enhancement in her quality of life, with an increased ability to engage in daily activities and maintain a positive outlook.
PMS Case Report Discussion
The positive outcomes observed in this PMS case report align with previous research suggesting that acupuncture is a valuable adjunctive treatment for individuals experiencing severe PMS symptoms. Acupuncture’s mechanism of action in addressing PMS involves regulating the body’s Qi and Blood flow, which are integral aspects of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) theory.
By targeting specific meridians associated with the Liver and Spleen, acupuncture alleviates stagnation and deficiency patterns commonly seen in PMS. Additionally, acupuncture modulates the release of neurotransmitters and hormones, which contribute to the reduction of mood-related symptoms such as depression and irritability. These findings are consistent with other studies demonstrating the holistic benefits of acupuncture in hormonal regulation and emotional well-being.
Acupuncture Resolves PMS
Furthermore, the holistic nature of acupuncture lends itself well to addressing the multifaceted nature of PMS. Unlike conventional treatments that primarily focus on symptom relief, acupuncture takes a comprehensive approach, aiming to restore balance and harmony within the body’s energetic systems. This strategy explains the observed improvements not only in physical symptoms like cramping and breast tenderness but also in psychological aspects such as mood swings and depression.
Case Conclusion
This PMS case report demonstrates that acupuncture, when administered by a nationally board-certified practitioner, is an effective intervention for mitigating debilitating PMS symptoms. Treatments are safe, and results long-lasting.
Next Steps
Try acupuncture if you or someone you love struggle with PMS. This type of treatment is also effective for addressing irregular periods, painful periods, amenorrhea, and infertility.
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Raleigh Acupuncture is absolutely the best acupuncture clinic I’ve ever been to. Jade and Mark are amazing practitioners, caring, professional and wise. They resolved my PMS and painful periods. Now my entire family goes to them for care. I love acupuncture and I love them!!
I had the world’s worst PMS. Raleigh Acupuncture cured it. It took three months, but it was worth it. Now — no pain, no bloating, I don’t feel like I’m losing my mind every month. What a relief. Thank you Raleigh Acupuncture!!