Testimonials - menstrual issues

I’ve written more than one review praising Anna’s talents as a healer. This particular testimonial speaks to a problem many women face.

Until recently, I had never experienced a regular menstrual cycle. By the time I went on Depo Provera (birth control) at the age of 19, my body had not once bled in a timely, healthy fashion. In fact, it was one of my main reasons for choosing “the shot,” which eliminates menstruation altogether. At least I wouldn’t be aware of how defective my body was.

Fast forward 11 years to my 30th rotation around the sun. My focus on health in full swing, I had been seeing Anna for nearly two years. One thing that became more and more important to me was reducing the number of chemicals in my body, so I decided to stop taking Depo. I hadn’t had a period in over a decade and it was time to "reclaim my womanhood."

Having studied Eastern theories about women’s health, I knew I needed to make some changes to ensure my health as I age. I saw my own mother suffer horribly with hormone issues during and after menopause. I wanted something different for myself. And, hey, if I found a great guy and we decided to have kids, I figured I should make sure I could maintain a pregnancy.

I was off Depo for a year before Anna and I spoke about a treatment plan. I still hadn’t seen a single drop of blood and was starting to worry. Anna was clear that treatment could take years and I would have to be very consistent with acupuncture, coming three to four times a month. I might need herbs - lots of them. This was a serious investment in my health and my future. Having recently finished grad school (read: broke) and living over 40 miles from her office, I didn’t hesitate in saying, “You have my time, my trust, and my money.”

It has been nearly two years and I am amazed at the change -- I menstruate every 35 days. This transformation has not been without serious battles, however. At first, I bled every 15 days and had severe symptoms, including dramatic emotional fluctuations, physical soreness, and debilitating anemia. Anna fought for my health and we got past those major hurdles. Now, I am free from anemia, and the remaining symptoms are mild.

About 6 months ago, I stopped seeing Anna regularly because of a new job in Los Angeles, but have recently recommitted to treatments 3-4 times a month. Yup, I drive over an hour home from work, then another 45 minutes south to see her – don’t forget the 45 minutes back, too. My health is worth it and she is worth it. The time away from home, my dog, my boyfriend, and other commitments is what I need to make sure I can be a good roommate, parent, partner, and friend. I look forward to soon having a 30 day menstrual cycle without any symptoms. I have faith in my body, faith in those needles, and certainly faith in Anna.

Thank you for all you do, Anna! My world is such a better place with you in it!

-L

I just celebrated my 32nd session with Anna.  We’ve been working on a host of health issues, as well as some emotional turmoil.  She has cured my hypoglycemia, reduced my anxiety to nothing, and keeps my tendonitis at bay.  I can count on her skill to clear my mind, help me sleep at night, and regulate a life-long menstrual battle.  She’s a terrific healer and I’m happy to drive 40+ miles to see her.  

One thing that has resisted change has been that special spark deep within me.  What twenty-something year old woman doesn’t want to feel a rush of excitement now and again?  Today, I am giddy to say, I actually had a libido.  Anna’s well-placed needles have proven, yet again, just how powerful they are.  I would say it’s a ‘miracle,’ but I would never want to dismiss Anna’s obvious expertise, nor her sincere dedication to her patients.  Anna, you rock.  

(Now, where can I find someone to rock my socks off!?  *wink, wink*)

Signed,
- L

Hey Anna,

Just wanted to let you know I got my period 45 days from my last period. No cramping at all and bright red blood. I'm so happy I got my period.By the way my last period took 104 days. THANK YOU
-W.C.

(I am treating this woman for Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome.)

Hey Anna,

I thought you would want to know that I woke up this morning to start a full blown period. Heavy flow and really red. I can't imagine this would be shedding of lining considering the heaviness, but I don't know how to tell the signs of a shedding lining. I will keep notes this week on how long it lasts and how it varies from day to day. I can't really tell yet how the IBS symptoms are considering this new development! My tummy is a bit all over the  place this morning. To see a period after 4 treatments...I'll take it! ; )

Thank you so much for your willingness to help me start feeling better and to get my body ready to be pregnant! ; )

Have a great week,

- L.K.

(This new patient has periods that are irregular.  She hasn’t had her period for many months and she is amazed that after four acupuncture treatments, she has a “full-blown period.”  We are also treating her chronic IBS.)

Anna,

I am so excited! My periods have been slightly irregular, last month was 25 days, which is usually the norm for me or 26 days. This month the 25th day (this past sunday) came and went and each day as I wiped and saw no blood I was a bit sad but figured my body is doing what it needs to do. This morning I started bleeding, normal so far, not heavy (thank goodness). I am so excited though because I started on the same lunar day as last month, the day before the new moon, thats what I call "regular" and that is my desire, to menstruate on the same phase of the moon each month. I know the acupncture has helped me to regulate, thanks!

Love

C.G.

(note: This 44-year old woman is not emotionally ready for peri-menopause. In Chinese medicine, a woman should be fertile until age 49, which means that she should have her period until age 49. This patient has been using acupuncture and Chinese herbs for a variety of health issues, but our most important issue recently is to regulate her menstrual cycle. I have been treating this woman consistently since January 16, 2009. Today (March 23, 2009) was her 10th treatment on a fairly regular schedule. This woman wants to keep having her period for as long as possible. Only in the past few treatments have we truly focused on her menstrual health, as this has only been a recent issue of keeping her periods as long as her body will allow.)

Dear Anna,

Thank you so much for changing my life and the way I now view the importance of mind and body health. When I came to you in August, my menstrual cycles were 60-75 days long and I was suffering from the effects of severe hormonal fluctuations. Your caring nature and passion for Chinese medicine intrigued me and I didn’t have many options with Western medicine. Not only do I feel SO much better, but I am a BELIEVER that it’s in everyone’s best interest to bring the body into homeostasis. My cycles have shortened to 35 days and I am much more relaxed, which has resulted in a decrease in obsessive-compulsive behaviors. I was underweight and staying up too late. I’ve now gained 4 pounds and am feeling energetic but more rested. Best of all, after getting to know you and the healing power of Chinese medicine, I was inspired to make dietary and lifestyle changes to supplement the acupuncture and herbs. Everyday, I am enthralled with my progress and appreciative of your help to get me here. Thank you!

- Tricia B.

Before I came to see Anna my periods were painful and irregular. Anna helped to make them regular and to greatly lessen the pain. Now I can function and get on with my life during my periods. Also, Anna's 'bedside manner' is so soothing and positive. I don't hesitate to recommend her to any of my friends.

- K.G

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