THE FOLLOWING ARE SYMPTOMS AND CONDITIONS COMMONLY TREATED BY THE WASHINGTON ACUPUNCTURE CENTER. GYNECOLOGICAL DISORDERS Irregular menstruation due to dysfunction of the ovary and with disturbance of menstruation is known as menstrual dysfunction. It includes all irregularities of the menstrual cycle, such as amenorrhea (abnormal absence or suppression of the menstrual discharge), dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation), and menorrhagia (abnormally profuse menstrual flow), along with prolonged or shortened course of the cycle, the color of the blood being too dark or too light, etc. Acupuncture acts to regulate the body functions and is effective in normalizing the menses. It helps to relieve cramps, reduce clots, and regulate the flow and duration of the menstrual period. It also helps to alleviate some of the unpleasant accompanying effects of the menses such as premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and retention of body fluids, and the hot flashes, irritability, and depression sometimes associated with menopause. Acupuncture will also help to strengthen the body and effectively aid in recovery from childbirth, post-partum fatigue, and weakness. It is an effective treatment for post-partum blues since it gives a sense of relaxation and well-being. Acupuncture can also effectively aid in the treatment of vaginal infections such as leukorrhea, a whitish vaginal discharge resulting from inflammation or congestion of mucous membrane. Prior to childbirth, if the fetus is in a breach or transverse position, acupuncture can aid in the movement of the fetus to the correct fetal position. Acupuncture is the safest anesthesia for childbirth since there are no drugs involved, not undesirable side effects, and no transfer of drugs to the baby. next