Like all branches of Chinese Medicine, traditional gynecology has a long history. The earliest records of gynecological medical writings date from the Shang dynasty (1500-100 B.C.), where inscriptions have been found, dealing with childbirth problems. The text Book of Mountains and Seas from the Warring States period (476-221 B.C.) describes medicinal plants to treat infertility. The Yellow Emperor's Classic of Internal Medicine - Simple Questions (Huang Di Nei Jing Su Wen) has many references to women's physiology and anatomy and to the diagnosis and treatment of gynecological problems (1).

Our bodies are designed to be in balance. The western term, homeostasis, refers to the property of regulation of one's internal environment so as to maintain a stable, constant condition. Acupuncture is homeostatic. It regulates the functioning of the body.

Traditional Chinese Medicine aims to restore balance (homeostasis) to a woman's body by normalizing the flow of qi and blood throughout the body, restoring normal and proper organic function, and normalizing the temperatures of bodily fluids. When these components are returned to balance the functioning of the body is returned to normal.

Because Traditional Chinese Medicine and especially acupuncture is effective in treating the endocrine system, many conditions that are associated with hormonal imbalances can be improved and potentially eliminated with treatment. PMS, amenorrhea, irregular menstrual cycles, painful menses, migraine headaches, infertility, and menopause are some of the conditions associated with a hormonal/endocrine imbalance that have a proven response to treatment.

Depending on the level of the imbalance and manifestation, conditions such as endometriosis and fibroids, can also respond well to treatment with acupuncture, herbs and certain lifestyle and dietary modifications.

Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine offer a safe, natural, drug- and effective way to treat many gynecological conditions. Lifestyle and dietary modifications will help speed up the process and one's return to a balanced, properly functioning physical body and spirit.

(1) Obstetrics and Gynecology in Chinese Medicine, Maciocia, 1998, Churchill Livingstone, p.3