Acupuncture for PMDD: Effects, Research, and Risks

Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a severe form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) affecting millions of women worldwide¹. Characterized by emotional and physical symptoms like mood swings, irritability, depression, fatigue, and physical discomfort, PMDD can significantly impact daily life².

In recent years, acupuncture has emerged as a potential treatment for PMDD, offering a holistic, non-drug alternative. But how effective is it?

This article delves into the effects of acupuncture on PMDD, the supporting research, and any associated risks.

Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) women

Table of Contents

What is PMDD?

Before discussing acupuncture, it’s essential to understand PMDD. It’s a severe form of PMS, with symptoms manifesting one to two weeks before menstruation. These symptoms can include severe mood swings, anxiety, depression, irritability, and physical discomfort like headaches, abdominal pain, and fatigue³.

While PMS affects around 30% of women, PMDD is less common, impacting about 3-8% of menstruating women. The exact cause of PMDD is still unclear, but hormonal fluctuations, neurotransmitter imbalances, and stress are considered contributing factors⁴.

Typical PMDD symptoms include⁵:

Mood swings, often severe and unpredictable
Depression and anxiety
Difficulty concentrating
Fatigue
Sleep disturbances
Physical symptoms like bloating, breast tenderness, and headaches

How Does Acupuncture Work?

Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine practice that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body, known as acupoints. This practice aims to balance the flow of Qi (energy) in the body, promoting overall wellness⁶. In the context of PMDD, acupuncture targets acupoints that are believed to regulate emotional and physical symptoms, potentially offering relief from mood disturbances, pain, and stress⁷.

Mechanisms of Acupuncture for PMDD

While the exact mechanisms are still under investigation, several theories suggest how acupuncture might help manage PMDD:

Release of Endorphins: Acupuncture stimulates the body to release endorphins, the body’s natural pain relievers, which can help improve mood and reduce pain⁸.
Regulation of Neurotransmitters: By influencing neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, acupuncture may help stabilize mood swings and alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression associated with PMDD⁹.
Improved Blood Flow: Acupuncture promotes better blood circulation, which may help reduce bloating, cramps, and muscle tension often experienced during PMDD¹⁰.
Balancing Hormones: Some studies suggest that acupuncture may help regulate hormone levels¹¹, addressing one of the root causes of PMDD symptoms.

In short, acupuncture can help reduce anxiety and relieve PMDD symptoms by changing some chemical reactions in the body.

What Does the Research Say?

The effectiveness of acupuncture for PMDD is still a subject of ongoing research. While anecdotal evidence and some small studies suggest that acupuncture can provide significant relief from PMDD symptoms, large-scale, high-quality trials are limited.

Positive Findings

A study published in the Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology found that women who underwent acupuncture treatment reported significant improvements in mood-related symptoms like irritability and anxiety¹². Another study from 2020 showed that acupuncture could help reduce the severity of both emotional and physical symptoms¹³, suggesting it may be more effective than placebo treatments.

Acupuncture has also been compared to pharmaceutical treatments. While medications like antidepressants and hormonal therapy are often prescribed for PMDD, these treatments come with potential side effects, such as nausea, insomnia, and increased risk of cardiovascular issues¹⁴. Acupuncture, on the other hand, is a non-drug alternative with minimal side effects, making it a safer option for some women.

Limitations in Current Research

However, the research supporting acupuncture for PMDD is not without limitations. Most studies have small sample sizes and are not always randomized or double-blind, meaning there is still a need for more rigorous trials. As noted in a 2021 review, while acupuncture showed promise in alleviating PMDD symptoms, the overall evidence is still inconclusive, and further research is necessary to validate these findings¹⁵.

Risks of Acupuncture for PMDD

Although acupuncture is generally considered a safe treatment, it’s not without its risks. Here are some potential issues to keep in mind¹⁶¹⁷¹⁸:

Infection Risk: If the needles are not properly sterilized, there’s a risk of infection. Always ensure that you’re receiving treatment from a certified, experienced acupuncturist who follows hygiene protocols.
Bleeding and Bruising: Some patients may experience mild bleeding or bruising at the insertion sites. This is generally minimal and resolves on its own.
Discomfort: While most people find acupuncture relaxing, some may experience discomfort or pain, especially during their first treatment.
Cost: Acupuncture treatments can be expensive, particularly if multiple sessions are required. On average, a session costs between $100 and $150 in the U.S., depending on the practitioner and location. Insurance coverage for acupuncture varies, so it’s important to check with your provider.

person s bare back with acupuncture needles — Photo by Thirdman on Pexels.com

Acupuncture vs. Other Treatments

Acupuncture stands out as a non-invasive, drug-free treatment option for PMDD, especially for women who prefer to avoid pharmaceuticals. Traditional medical treatments for PMDD often involve¹⁹:

Antidepressants (SSRIs): These are commonly prescribed to help with mood-related symptoms, but they can come with side effects like nausea, insomnia, and fatigue.
Hormonal Therapy: Hormone-regulating treatments, such as birth control pills, can help manage PMDD, but they also carry risks, including weight gain, headaches, and mood changes.

Compared to these options, acupuncture offers a holistic approach that aims to treat the underlying imbalances in the body without the risk of significant side effects. It’s also a more personalized treatment, as acupuncture practitioners typically develop a tailored treatment plan based on the individual’s symptoms and health history.

Is Acupuncture Right for You?

If you’re considering acupuncture for PMDD, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider to ensure it’s a suitable option for you. While acupuncture may not work for everyone, it can be a valuable complementary therapy for women seeking non-drug options to manage their symptoms.

Questions to Ask Your Practitioner:

How many sessions will I need to see results?
Are there any potential side effects I should be aware of?
Can acupuncture be combined with other treatments, such as medication or herbal supplements?

Conclusion

Acupuncture for PMDD is a promising alternative for women seeking relief from emotional and physical symptoms. While more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness, many women report improvements in mood, pain, and overall well-being. With minimal risks and potential benefits, acupuncture is worth considering as part of a broader treatment plan for PMDD. If you’re struggling with PMDD and want to explore holistic treatments, acupuncture may offer the relief you’ve been searching for.