Hormones are chemical messengers that influence the way our cells and organs function. There are many different types of hormones in the body and although each has a different function, they are all influenced by another. Hormones are produced, stored and secreted via a network of glands, which make up our endocrine system. They control growth, development, reproduction, metabolism, mood, sleep and digestion.

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Hormone levels fluctuate naturally and are part of our inbuilt life cycle. For a woman it is normal for hormones to shift during the menstrual cycle, soar during pregnancy and drop off before menopause. During the menstrual cycle, estrogen and progesterone fluctuate as the body prepares for ovulation and a possible pregnancy. If there is no pregnancy, the production of hormones fall, which induces menstruation and a new menstrual cycle begins. When a woman approaches 50 her production of hormones naturally decline causing less frequent periods. When her periods eventually stop she will have reached menopause.

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Hormonal balance is vital to a healthy body and mind but can be disrupted in many ways. Too much stress, a poor diet, ill health, too much exercise, prescription medicines and a toxic overload are some ways that cause a disruption in the level of hormones.

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When the body produces too much or little of a certain hormone it is known as hormonal imbalance. Depending on which hormone(s) is involved a woman will experience a range of symptoms including moodiness, weight gain, digestive problems, acne, menstrual irregularities, infertility, headaches, insomnia, breast pain, anxiety, food cravings and loss of libido.

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The goal of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is to restore balance in the body. Acupuncture and herbal medicine are safe and effective forms of treatments, which promote a healthy equilibrium. Acupuncture has a regulating effect on the body and herbs have a hormone balancing effect on the body. They both play an important role in regulating the menstrual cycle, balancing emotions and promoting healthy organ function.

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TCM & Acupuncture can help with:

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• irregular menstruation

• painful menstruation

• endometriosis

• menopause 

• polycystic ovary syndrome

• hypo/hyperthyroidism

• premenstrual syndrome

• weight management