An important component of women’s health is a consistent, healthy monthly cycle; one that comes close to 28 days. A cycle that has become shorter, or longer than usual, or is no longer predictable, may indicate a hormonal imbalance, the effects of stress, or the normal approach of menopause.
Other menstrual irregularities are an unusually light, or heavy menstrual flow, or a flow that unusually clotty. Acupuncture and herbal medicine can help correct these problems by their effects on the ovaries, the hypothalamus and the pituitary gland.
Treating an irregular cycle is an important part of infertility treatment. An irregular cycle can make it difficult to conceive, because it may mean you ovulate earlier or later than usual. It may also be a symptom of polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS.)
Acupuncture is also effective for helping to start a cycle that has not resumed normally after ceasing the birth control pill.