Frequently asked questions

Yes – as ultra-thin, pre-sterilised, single use needles are used, acupuncture is a safe practice when administered by a fully trained and qualified, licensed acupuncturist. I am a member of the British Acupuncture Council, the UK’s largest professional regulatory body for traditional acupuncturists. They ensure all of their members are trained to the highest standard and maintain these standards throughout their professional practice. The British Acupuncture Council is regulated by the Professional Standards Authority for Health and Social Care. 

Acupuncture is generally very gentle, and most people find the experience deeply relaxing. The needles are hair-thin, so they’re designed to minimise any discomfort. You might feel a small sensation upon insertion or stimulation of the needle, like a tingling, warmth, or gentle pressure, but it should not be painful. Many people find the process soothing and often describe a deep sense of relaxation during and after the treatment.

All appointments run for up to one hour. 

It’s best to wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothing so all areas of the body can be accessed easily. Please avoid tight-fitting clothing or onesies. If any items of clothing need to be removed to access certain areas of the body, your underwear will always remain on, and you will be draped with a blanket so only the part of the body being worked on will be visible.

It’s advisable to arrive well-hydrated and eat a light meal one to two hours prior to your appointment, allowing time for digestion without feeling overly full or hungry. Acupuncture can sometimes lower blood sugar or blood pressure, especially if you’re on an empty stomach. Eating beforehand helps stabilise your blood sugar and blood pressure, reducing the likelihood of feeling faint or dizzy. Avoid vigorous exercise or alcohol right before your session. Most importantly, come with an open mind and be ready to relax. 

It all starts with a deep conversation. I’ll ask about your health, your lifestyle, even things like how you sleep and what you crave – because all of these are pieces of your body’s story. I’ll then look at your tongue and feel your pulse, as these help me get a better understanding of how your body is functioning and any things which might be out of balance or require some attention. You’ll then lie comfortably on the treatment bed and I’ll gently insert the needles. You might feel a light tapping, gentle pressure, some tingling or warmth, but most people say how deeply relaxing it is. You’ll then rest for a short amount of time while the needles do their work. Additional modalities may be used to complement your treatment, such as moxa (warming herbs), cupping (suction therapy), gua sha (gentle gliding technique) or Traditional Chinese Medicine lifestyle and dietary therapy. Many people leave feeling clearer, lighter, and more grounded.

Acupuncture treatments are personalised to each individual and therefore the number of treatments needed varies from person to person. Acute conditions often improve within a few sessions, while chronic issues may require more time and regular treatment. Acupuncture is a cumulative medicine, so the effects build with each session. Usually, weekly appointments are advised to start with, as regular appointments accumulate results. During your initial consultation, we will discuss your health goals, create a personalised treatment plan and provide an estimated number of sessions to help you achieve the best results. Most people start to see improvements within 3-6 weeks of appointments, however, the course of treatment may last longer than that. Generally, for women’s health and fertility, usually around three cycles of weekly treatment are advised.

Yes! Acupuncture can be a great therapy to support you throughout your pregnancy journey. If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant, please let me know, as some acupuncture points are contraindicated in pregnancy.

No. Many people use acupuncture to enhance their health and prevent illness. While it’s often used to treat specific conditions, it’s also used as a preventative measure to promote overall health and balance within the body.

Most people feel calm, relaxed and more grounded after their acupuncture session. Some people notice improvements in their symptoms right away, while for others, the effects may develop gradually over the next few days. It’s possible to feel a bit tired or drowsy after treatment, so it’s a good idea to allow yourself some quiet time afterwards. Staying well-hydrated and paying attention to how you feel will help you get the most from your session.

Many insurers include acupuncture as part of their standard cover, however, it’s best to check with your provider, as individual schemes have different terms and conditions.