questions to ask acupuncture/TCM practioner

**trixiebelle17** · 02-09-2008 11:12

Well i'm now up to nine weeks without a period, getting tested on thurs for PCOS but that wont exactly bring on my period but may give some explanation why it is MIA...

So i thought i might look into acupuncture/TCM... what questions should i be asking when calling around?

What should i expect from an appointment, and how much should i expect to be paying?

**gazelle** · 02-09-2008 16:28

*bump*

Just bumping it up for you Trixie; I'm keen to find the answers too

.

**Lastcenturymum** · 02-09-2008 16:37

Hi. Can't tell you what to ask, but just tell them what you are wanting to see them for (they usually ask you anyway, even on the phone)

You should expect to be questioned at length about your menstral histoy, what you eat, other health issues and you will have your pulse taken and have to stick out your tongue!

They should diagnose your constitution in chinese medical terms, ie dampness (which often is the cause of POCS) wind, heat etc. It will all sound a bit strange, but you get the hang of it eventually.

They will probably do acupuncture and maybe cupping and give herbs and will possibly suggest a change of diet. It may sound like its concentrating on aspects other than your female health, but remember they are all connected!

I spent about 1.5 hours at the guy I see, but 3-40mins at another one, depends on how they treat and how efficient they are.

Costs me $50 for an appointment (60 for initial) and $12.50 a week for herbs.

Sorry I didn't see where you live otherwise I could recommend my guy - he has a good success rate. PM me if you want anymore details

All the best!

**Craftymum** · 02-09-2008 21:13

Trixie - Agree with previous comments. Just go in and tell them what you are experiencing and what outcomes you would like to see.

Mine questioned me in detail for a good half hour before commencing the acupuncture and prescribing the herbs. First appt was about an hour and then each one after that (weekly) were half hour.

They like to see you weekly as each week they treat whatever is going on in your cycle. EG week 1 they work on AF and flushing your system, week two they prepare your body for ovuation, week 3 is similar and week 4 they prepare your body for AF.

Mine cost $65 per week including the herbs, but when I called around majority were $65-$95 per week. Try the one your most comfortable with and if its not for you, try a different one or seek recommendations on here for someone near you.

Goodluck!

**trixiebelle17** · 02-09-2008 21:27

thanks for ur responses lastcenturymum and crafty!

I sent u a PM last century.

I made a phone call today but left a message and havent heard back yet. I'll try again tomorrow. My doctor gave me a recommendation for a chiro that was doing acupuncture but i doubt he does TCM. i found a webpage for a girl on my way to work who specialises in TCM and does before/after hours appts, so i guess i'll start with her and see how we fit unless someone else can recommend anyone in Sydney

**mrmoosmum** · 02-09-2008 22:51

Hi there Trixie - I'd be asking that they do herbs as well as acupuncture - I believe that both are critical to bringing along AF or a BFP. I'd also ask if they have any areas of interest or expertise - ideally they'd say fertility before you having to say that is why you're calling. Good luck!