How TCM Elevates Perimenopause Care: Insights for Practitioners
This blog draws inspiration from the insightful article written by Dr. Keri Krieger, an acupuncturist and Doctor of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), titled How TCM Can Support Both Women and Health Practitioners to Better Understand the Transition of Perimenopause. Published in the latest edition of The Natural Therapist, Edition 39, Number 2, Summer 2024, Dr. Krieger’s work sheds light on the nuanced approach TCM offers for addressing perimenopause holistically.
ANTA takes immense pride in celebrating the knowledge and expertise of its members, who continually raise the bar in natural therapy. By highlighting this article, we aim to explore TCM’s profound role in perimenopause care while reinforcing ANTA’s dedication to empowering practitioners through education, collaboration, and professional development.
TCM’s Holistic Approach to Perimenopause
Perimenopause is a pivotal phase in a woman’s life, characterised by significant hormonal, emotional, and physical changes. Common symptoms include hot flashes, mood swings, sleep disturbances, and more. Unlike conventional medicine, which often focuses on treating symptoms, TCM views perimenopause as a natural transition—a gateway to addressing underlying health issues that may have been unnoticed for years.
TCM’s Seven-Year Cycles of Women’s Health
TCM conceptualises a woman’s health journey in seven-year cycles, each marking distinct changes in the body’s energy (Qi) and organ systems:
At 35 Years:Â Yang Ming channels begin to deplete, resulting in early signs of aging like fine wrinkles and thinning hair.
At 42 Years:Â The three Yang channels weaken further, amplifying hormonal imbalances and aging.
At 49 Years:Â The Ren and Chong channels are completely depleted, marking menopause.
Practitioners who study Chinese Medicine courses learn to interpret these cycles and tailor treatments to restore balance during each stage.
Acupuncture and Perimenopause: A Vital Connection
Acupuncture, one of the foundational practices of TCM, is highly effective in alleviating perimenopausal symptoms. By targeting specific acupoints, acupuncture balances Qi flow, reduces stress, and supports hormonal equilibrium.
Key Benefits of Acupuncture
Hot Flashes and Night Sweats: Research highlights acupuncture’s success in decreasing both the severity and frequency of vasomotor symptoms.
Improved Sleep:Â Regular treatments help calm the nervous system, reducing insomnia and improving sleep quality.
Emotional Balance:Â Acupuncture alleviates anxiety, irritability, and mood swings by regulating hormonal imbalances and promoting relaxation.
Complementary Care:Â Acupuncture works synergistically with other therapies, such as Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT), addressing symptoms that HRT alone may not resolve.
For practitioners, acupuncture courses provide invaluable tools to enhance client outcomes by offering non-invasive, effective solutions.
Insights from Dr. Krieger’s Article
Dr. Krieger emphasises that perimenopause offers a unique opportunity for deep healing, both physically and emotionally. She encourages practitioners to see this phase as more than just symptom management—it’s a time to reassess and address long-standing health concerns.
Helpful Definitions from Dr. Krieger’s Work
Perimenopause:Â The years leading up to menopause, often starting as early as age 35, with symptoms becoming more pronounced closer to menopause.
Menopause: Defined as 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period, transitioning into post-menopause—a phase that can make up a third of a woman’s life.
Early Menopause:Â Menstruation ceases before age 45, often due to medical or surgical interventions.
The Bao Mai and Reverse Puberty
A fascinating concept explored in TCM is the Bao Mai, a meridian connecting the heart and uterus. During puberty, energy flows from the heart to the uterus, signalling the start of menstruation. In perimenopause, this flow reverses, reflecting the body’s transition away from reproductive functions.
This reversal, often likened to “reverse puberty,” underscores the importance of balancing physical and emotional health during perimenopause. Symptoms such as mood swings, memory changes, and sleep disruptions often originate from neurological changes, not just hormonal shifts.
Dr. Krieger notes that acupuncture and TCM treatments help harmonise these shifts, offering a holistic solution that addresses both physical and emotional well-being.
ANTA: A Trusted and Multi-Modality Association
Since its inception in 1955, ANTA has championed the advancement of natural therapies in Australia. Representing 12 modalities, ANTA provides a trusted platform for practitioners to collaborate, learn, and excel in their fields.
Why Practitioners Choose ANTA
Recognition and Credibility: ANTA’s members meet stringent professional standards, earning recognition from over 50 health funds and reinforcing trust with clients.
Cross-Modality Collaboration: ANTA’s multi-modality approach fosters a dynamic exchange of ideas, enabling practitioners to learn from both shared and complementary disciplines.
Educational Opportunities: Members have access to cutting-edge Chinese Medicine courses, acupuncture courses, and other training programs to expand their expertise.
ANTA’s commitment to collaboration and education enriches the practice of its members, helping them deliver exceptional care and build thriving businesses.
Empowering Practitioners Through Education and Resources
ANTA is dedicated to fostering professional growth among its members by providing access to valuable resources and learning opportunities.
Access to Research and Seminars:Â Stay informed about the latest developments in natural therapy.
Networking Opportunities:Â Build connections with leaders in natural health, sharing insights and best practices.
Professional Recognition: Enhance credibility with clients through ANTA’s trusted certification and recognition by health funds.
ANTA’s resources ensure practitioners are equipped to meet the evolving needs of their clients and the broader healthcare landscape.
ANTA’s Commitment to Excellence
Dr. Krieger’s insights into TCM and perimenopause care highlight the transformative potential of natural therapies. By combining ancient wisdom with contemporary knowledge, practitioners can make a profound difference in their clients’ lives. Learn more on Dr. Krieger’s website.
As Australia’s leading natural therapy association, ANTA is dedicated to celebrating the achievements of its members and supporting their continued professional growth. Through the recognition of accredited courses, such as Chinese Medicine courses and acupuncture courses, along with fostering a collaborative, multi-modality approach, ANTA ensures its members remain leaders in holistic healthcare.
To explore recognised natural therapy courses, visit our course page.
Are you looking to join an association that supports your professional development and celebrates your achievements? Find out more about ANTA membership here.
https://www.australiannaturaltherapistsassociation.com.au/blog/how-tcm-elevates-perimenopause-care-insights-for-practitioners/
