Perimenopause Treatment with Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine

Perimenopause can feel like your body is suddenly out of your control, even though it’s a natural stage of life. Shifting hormones affect nearly every system in the body, leading to symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, trouble sleeping, mood swings, and brain fog. Periods often become unpredictable, both in timing and flow heaviness, which can be frustrating and disruptive. During this transition, it’s common to feel “not like yourself”—tired, irritable or anxious, and less in control of your body and mind. For many, these changes can feel overwhelming.

The good news is that you don’t have to just “tough it out.” Perimenopause is a time of change, and with the right support, you can navigate it more comfortably and with fewer symptoms. Acupuncture and Chinese medicine help gently regulate hormones, calm the nervous system, improve sleep and mood, and restore energy so that you can feel more like yourself again.

What is Perimenopause?

Perimenopause is a transitional phase of hormonal fluctuations leading up to menopause, when the ovaries produce less estrogen and progesterone. On average, it begins in the early 40s and can last anywhere from 4 to 10 years. For some women, it can start as early as the mid-30s or as late as the mid-50s.

During this time, hormone levels fluctuate unpredictably and often dramatically, which can cause a wide range of symptoms, including:

• Hot flashes and night sweats

• Irregular and/or heavier periods

• Sleep disturbances

• Fatigue or low energy

• Slower metabolism and weight changes

• Mood swings, anxiety, or irritability

• Decreased libido

• Vaginal dryness or discomfort

• Joint stiffness

• Difficulty concentrating or memory lapses (“brain fog”)

Perimenopause officially ends with the final menstrual period (defined as 12 consecutive months without a period), which marks the beginning of menopause.

These symptoms are common, but that doesn’t mean you have to struggle through them. With the right support, it’s possible to feel more balanced and like yourself during this transition.

The Western Medical Approach to Perimenopause

In conventional medicine, perimenopause is often managed with hormone replacement therapy (HRT), birth control pills, or symptom-specific medications such as sleep aids or antidepressants. While these treatments can provide relief, they aren’t the right fit for everyone. Some women may experience side effects, have health conditions that limit their options, or simply prefer a more natural, holistic approach.

Unfortunately, many women are told to “wait it out” until menopause, which can leave them feeling unsupported during what can be a challenging stage of life.

How Acupuncture Can Help with Perimenopause

Acupuncture provides a natural and effective option for managing the wide range of symptoms that come with perimenopause. Rather than relying solely on medications or waiting until menopause has passed, acupuncture works with the body to ease the transition and improve overall well-being.

Modern research shows that acupuncture can influence the body in several important ways: it helps regulate the nervous system, improves blood circulation, reduces inflammation, and supports the endocrine system (the network of glands that controls hormones). These effects can translate into significant symptom relief for many women.

What the research says:

• Hot flashes and night sweats – Studies published in journals such as Menopause and Obstetrics & Gynecology have found that acupuncture can reduce both the frequency and intensity of hot flashes and night sweats, often with lasting benefits.

• Better sleep – Sleep problems are one of the most common complaints during perimenopause. Clinical trials show that acupuncture helps women fall asleep more easily and stay asleep longer, reducing night-time awakenings.

• Mood and stress regulation – Acupuncture has been shown to calm the body’s stress response by influencing neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine. Many women report feeling less anxious, less irritable, and more emotionally balanced.

• Menstrual cycle and flow regulation – Acupuncture can support hormonal balance, reduce irregular or heavy periods, and help cycles become more predictable, easing discomfort during perimenopause.

• Energy and pain relief – Fatigue, joint stiffness, and headaches often improve with regular treatment. By promoting circulation and reducing inflammation, acupuncture helps restore energy and ease discomfort.

When combined with Chinese herbal medicine, lifestyle guidance, and nutritional support, acupuncture can offer a truly comprehensive approach, helping your body adapt and move through this transition with greater ease, vitality, and balance.

Support for Your Perimenopause Journey

If you’re navigating perimenopause and looking for natural, effective support, acupuncture can make a significant difference. Dr. Cindi Ignatovsky has over 20 years of experience in women’s health and offers compassionate perimenopause treatment in Campbell, CA. She has helped countless women in Campbell, San Jose, and throughout the South Bay ease symptoms, restore balance, and feel more like themselves again.

Her treatments are highly personalized, blending evidence-based acupuncture for perimenopause with the time-tested wisdom of Chinese medicine to address each woman’s unique needs. Dr. Cindi’s goal is to help her patients move through this transition with greater comfort, vitality, and peace of mind.

Ready to take the next step?
Perimenopause doesn’t have to be something you simply endure. To schedule a consultation, click here or email drcignatovsky@gmail.com

FAQs About Perimenopause and Acupuncture

How long does perimenopause last?
Perimenopause typically lasts between 4 and 10 years, though the experience can vary. It begins when hormone levels start to fluctuate, usually in the early 40s, though some women notice changes as early as their mid-30s or as late as their 50s. It officially ends once you’ve gone 12 months without a menstrual period, which marks the start of menopause.

When should I start acupuncture for perimenopause?
You don’t have to wait until symptoms become overwhelming. Acupuncture can be helpful at the very first signs of change—such as irregular cycles, sleep issues, or mood swings—and can also provide relief at any stage of perimenopause.

Can acupuncture replace hormone therapy (HRT)?
For some women, acupuncture offers enough relief that hormone therapy isn’t needed. Others choose to use acupuncture alongside HRT to reduce side effects or address additional symptoms. Every woman is different, and treatment can be tailored to your needs.

How many acupuncture sessions will I need?
Most women begin to notice improvements within the first few treatments, especially for sleep, hot flashes, and stress. For lasting results, a series of sessions is usually recommended, often weekly at first, then tapering as symptoms improve.

Is acupuncture safe during perimenopause?
Yes. Acupuncture is a safe, drug-free therapy when performed by a licensed practitioner. It can also be used alongside other treatments, including medications or hormone therapy, without conflict.

What other symptoms can acupuncture help with?
In addition to hot flashes, night sweats, and sleep issues, many women find relief from anxiety, mood swings, fatigue, joint pain, headaches, low libido, and vaginal dryness with acupuncture during perimenopause. •