8 Annoying Menopausal Symptoms Alleviated with Acupuncture

Menopause is a natural change in a woman’s fertility, ending her reproductive ability, and it naturally comes with hormonal changes that can cause unpleasant, disruptive symptoms. Hot flashes, weight gain, mood swings, and mental fog are just a few of the unpleasant effects of this “change of life” that women have to navigate through.

At Minnesota Integrative Medicine & Acupuncture in Coon Rapids, Minnesota, Kierstin Beaman, DACM, uses acupuncture to help women alleviate menopausal symptoms so they can move through the transition with grace and comfort. 

Eight major menopausal symptoms acupuncture can ease

No matter which of these eight symptoms you experience, acupuncture can address them.

1. Hot flashes and night sweats

Research has shown acupuncture to be effective in reducing the intensity of hot flashes associated with menopause. Acupuncture can balance out your serotonin levels. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that, when at abnormal levels, is linked to hot flashes. 

2. Mood swings and anxiety

Menopausal hormonal fluctuations often contribute to mood swings and heightened anxiety. Acupuncture promotes the release of endorphins, the body's natural mood enhancers, providing a calming effect that helps manage emotional symptoms.

3. Sleep disruptions

Insomnia and disrupted sleep patterns are common during menopause. Acupuncture addresses the underlying imbalances that contribute to sleep disturbances, promoting better sleep quality and overall restful nights. Research shows that acupuncture increases the amount of gamma-aminobutyric acid, a neurotransmitter that improves sleep quality

4. Fatigue and low energy levels

Acupuncture stimulates the body's energy pathways, addressing fatigue and low energy levels often associated with menopause. By enhancing overall energy, acupuncture helps women regain a sense of vigor and vitality.

5. Brain fog and memory issues

Brain fog may be a side effect of the sleep disturbances and anxiety associated with menopause. Acupuncture can improve cognitive function and memory by improving blood flow to the brain and reducing stress, contributing to better mental clarity.

6. Metabolic changes

Changes in your hormone levels that occur with menopause can impact your metabolism and contribute to weight gain. Acupuncture, in conjunction with lifestyle adjustments, can help regulate your metabolism and support healthy weight management during this life transition.

7. Joint pain and stiffness

A reduction in estrogen levels can result in joint pain and inflammation, making you feel achy and stiff during menopause. Acupuncture's ability to reduce inflammation and improve circulation makes it effective in addressing joint pain and stiffness, providing relief for women experiencing musculoskeletal discomfort during menopause.

8. Decreased libido

Changes in hormonal levels can lead to a decreased libido for some women during menopause. Acupuncture stimulates the release of endorphins and promotes a balance in hormonal activity, contributing to a healthier and more satisfying sex life.

Research shows that women who are lacking in sexual desire and having trouble with sexual function during menopause experience improvements with acupuncture. 

Menopause is a natural transition and can’t be “cured,” but symptoms can be managed and eased. Acupuncture offers benefits during this life transition, as it can help make symptoms less disruptive to your quality of life. 

If you’d like to explore acupuncture for health during menopause or for other concerns, including infertility and pain, call Minnesota Integrative Medicine & Acupuncture at 651-272-7998, or book an appointment online.