Acupuncture is part of the ancient practice of Traditional Chinese medicine. Energy (qi) flows through the entire body along pathways we call meridians. This energy can become blocked or stagnant, causing imbalances and thus giving rise to disharmony, illness and pain.

Acupuncture stimulates specific acupoints along these meridians, restoring the smooth flow of energy and blood flow, bringing the body back to balance. These points are where a large number of nerves, muscles and connective tissue can be stimulated. Stimulating these points increases blood flow to the area and activates the body’s natural systems to nourish and rebalance the body. Additionally, neurochemicals such as endorphins, serotonin and dopamine reduce pain, and stress and improve mood. Acupuncture has also been shown to reduce the stress hormone cortisol.

Facial rejuvenation/cosmetic acupuncture works by inserting very thin acupuncture needles that target facial muscles to lift and relax the face. The facial muscles are directly connected to the skin, so when they are tight they create wrinkles (think of tightening up your forehead). Facial acupuncture focuses on releasing muscle tension in the face, which helps to smooth out wrinkles and lines. Additionally, we create a micro-stimulation to the area, increasing blood flow and the production of collagen to create a more plumped appearance and youthful glow.

Initial Acupuncture Treatment:

We will discuss any health conditions and concerns with a health intake. A tongue and pulse assessment will also be done to inform the treatment. We will discuss your health goals and create a treatment plan accordingly. After the intake, acupuncture needles will be inserted throughout the body, the needles will be retained for 20 – 40 minutes, depending on the condition(s) being treated and the individual.

Follow-Up Acupuncture Treatment:

We will do a shorter intake, assess any changes that have taken place and address any questions you may have. We will follow the course of the initial treatment plan made during the initial assessment. Needles will then be inserted throughout the body and retained for 20 – 40 minutes depending on the condition(s) being treated, the individual, and the session’s length.

Facial Acupuncture Treatment:

We will start with an assessment and discuss goals for the treatment. A few body acupuncture points will be selected for grounding, nourishing and treating skin health from the inside out. Very tiny facial acupuncture needles will then be inserted. Each 60-minute facial acupuncture session includes facial cupping and a gua sha. The 45-minute session does not include facial cupping and gua sha, only facial and the body acupuncture component will be performed.

The number of treatments varies per individual. If the condition is acute, it will require fewer treatments to resolve, however, if it is a chronic concern, more treatments will be required. Following the initial course of treatments, maintenance and prevention treatments can be beneficial every month or as discussed. After the initial assessment, you will be given a treatment plan outlining the number of treatments estimated for your case.

For facial acupuncture, a series of 10 treatments is recommended for best results scheduled over 7-8 weeks. For the first couple of weeks, 2 treatments per week are recommended, followed by once per week for the remainder of the initial course of 10 treatments. Follow-up treatments for maintenance are recommended after 1, 3 or 6 months depending on age and other factors. Improvements may be noticeable after 4-6 treatments.

Fertility Patients

Below are the general recommendations, treatment plans will be discussed in person and we will come up with a plan that works for you and your circumstances.

Natural Fertility Support

• Treatment plans depend on each individual and patient timelines, goals and any present diagnoses are considered. Preconception treatments are recommended anywhere from 1-3 months before trying to conceive. Typically weekly treatments for the 1-3 months prior are recommended, then can be spaced out according to menstrual cycle phases.

IUI Patients

• For those leading up to an IUI cycle, weekly sessions 1-3 months prior is recommended. Additionally, a pre- and post-IUI treatment can be done to best support the procedure and a treatment roughly 1 week following is great for implantation support.

IVF Retrievals:

• For those leading up to an IVF retrieval, weekly treatments 1-3 months prior are recommended to help nourish the quality of the eggs being retrieved, however, it is never too late. Once in the cycle, during the first couple weeks of your transfer cycle, 2 sessions weekly help stimulate and nourish the follicles.
• A pre-retrieval treatment either the night before or the morning of the procedure can be done to help with final egg maturation and is good for calming nerves and anxiety.

Embryo Transfers

• Once in your transfer cycle, expect 2 sessions per week leading up to your transfer to help build and nourish the endometrial lining.

• Pre-retrieval sessions are available the night before or morning of your procedure, as well as post-transfer sessions within 24 hours after your transfer.
• A treatment roughly 1 week post-transfer can help support implantation.

Pregnancy Patients

First Trimester

Acupuncture can help reduce the chances of miscarriage, help nourish the mother with increasing bodily demands and help with many unpleasant pregnancy symptoms such as nausea, fatigue, digestive issues, anxiety and more. Sessions are recommended weekly during the first trimester.

Second Trimester

Treatments can be done monthly or on a need-be basis if any unpleasant symptoms remain or come up or if complications arise.

Labour Preparation and Induction

Starting at week 36 we can begin labour preparation acupuncture and can also treat breech position. Labour induction treatments can be done once you reach or are beyond your due date.