Do you find that you get a migraine or a headache just about every month? Does it stop you in your tracks, make it difficult to get your work done, and get in the way of your ability to care for your family? Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine can help! Many women get headaches or migraines around the time of their period each month. This is caused by an imbalance in the body, and the good news is that it can typically be addressed with acupuncture and Chinese herbs. [caption id="attachment_2825" align="alignright" width="335"] Do You Need Relief from Headaches?[/caption] From a Chinese medicine perspective, there are two main reasons that you may be getting headaches or migraines just before or during your period.

• Some women who carry a certain amount of stress and tension find that the additional hormonal surge leading into the period creates an upwelling of energy leading to a migraine or headache. These are often experienced as intense, pounding headaches or migraines. Often, acupuncture provides relief in the moment, and periodic acupuncture and/or use of Chinese herbal medicines can prevent this type of headache in future months.
• Other women may find that they feel a little “tapped out,” weak, or easily fatigued in daily life. For these women, the hormonal change preceding their period creates stress and strain on their bodies which can result in a headache. These are often more of a vague, dull ache in the head rather than a pounding headache. For this kind of headache, Chinese medicine works to build up the body’s energy over time with both acupuncture and herbs so that the woman’s body can withstand the monthly cycles with ease.

If you have been struggling with monthly headaches, come visit an acupuncturist to get relief and ensure that your headaches are a thing of the past! You’ll be amazed at how much easier life becomes when your monthly symptoms are barely noticeable.