Questions About Acupuncture
how often will I need treatment and how many treatments will i need in total?
Every patient has different needs therefore there is no set treatment plan. As a rule of thumb, I would initially like to see you once a week for four weeks. After these four treatments I will review your treatment plan and adjust it accordingly – often decreasing the treatments to two treatments per month. A course of treatment generally lasts for 3 months.
What does having acupuncture feel like?
Acupuncture is rarely uncomfortable. You do feel the needles being inserted, which can feel like a little pinch, but it does not hurt. Once in place I will gently stimulate the needles which produces a mild tingling sensation. After this I will leave you to relax with the needles for half an hour – at which point you will not feel the needles at all. Most patients fall asleep! It is very relaxing.
Will I have to get undressed to have an acupuncture treatment?
If you wear loose clothing to your appointment it will be possible for me to access all acupuncture points without you having to undress. I will leave you to get ready in private and provide lots of blankets to ensure you are covered up and warm!
How will I feel after a treatment?
Most patients feel very relaxed after a treatment. Some feel more energised. It is fine to carry on as normal after a treatment, but I do recommend you don’t go out the evening of a treatment if possible – simply to gain the most benefit from the relaxing effects of your treatment.
Are there any unpleasant side effects?
Acupuncture has virtually no unpleasant side effects. Any that do occur are mild and self-correcting. Occasionally there may be minor bruising at the needle point or a short-term flare-up of your symptoms as your energy clears and resettles.
Can acupuncture cause any harm?
The likelihood of acupuncture causing harm is very low as long as you are treated by a competent, certified acupuncture practitioner using sterile needles. I am a member of the British Acupuncture Council and therefore abide by their strict code of conduct. I have completed over 7 years of training and been in practice for 25 years. I use single use, sterile needles that are safely disposed of after use.
Shall I tell my Doctor I am having acupuncture?
If you are currently receiving treatment from your doctor, I would recommend you let them know that you are having acupuncture. I would be very happy to write to your doctor/consultant explaining your treatment plan.
Shall I continue to take my prescribed medication whilst having acupuncture?
Yes. Please do not stop taking any medication without professional medical guidance. You should always consult your doctor regarding any change of prescription.
Do I need to do anything before a treatment?
Please do not drink alcohol or take any recreational drugs before or after an acupuncture treatment. Equally please do not exercise for 2 hours before or after a treatment as it will disrupt the beneficial effects of acupuncture. Finally, try not to have a large meal within an hour of your appointment as you may need to lie on your stomach.
what is your financial policy and What forms of payment do you accept?
Payment is due on the day of treatment and can be made by card or cash.
Do private Health Insurers pay for BAcC members?
Yes in many cases, but it depends on your insurer. As the demand for complementary medicine increases, more private health insurance companies offer cover for traditional acupuncture. Please check your individual policy details. Should they need me to write a letter/provide invoices, I would be happy to do so.
If you have Fertility specific questions, please see my Fertility Questions and Answers.
If you have any further questions please get in touch.
ABOUT JUSTINE
Justine is an acupuncturist, fertility coach and women's health expert with over 27 years' experience. She specialises in all aspects of women's health from adolescence to post-menopause, offering consultations both online and in person.
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