Can acupuncture treat hormonal vaginal dryness?
Acupuncture may help some women manage symptoms of hormonal vaginal dryness by improving blood flow and reducing stress, but clinical evidence is limited and it is not a replacement for medical treatments.
Detailed Medical Explanation
Some studies suggest acupuncture may increase pelvic blood flow, modulate stress hormones, and improve subjective symptoms of menopause, including dryness. However, systematic reviews find evidence is weak, and standard treatments (such as oestrogen therapy or moisturisers) remain the gold standard. Acupuncture should only be used as a complementary therapy alongside evidence-based care. NHS: Acupuncture Safety.
Clinical Context
We occasionally see patients explore acupuncture for menopausal symptoms. Always inform your clinician and do not substitute acupuncture for medically recommended therapies.
Evidence-Based Approaches
UK and international guidelines do not recommend acupuncture as a first-line therapy for vaginal dryness, but it may offer symptom relief for some as part of a holistic plan. RCOG: Complementary Therapies.