Why I’ve Created a Teen Clinic
The teenage years bring significant physical, emotional and social changes. Alongside puberty and a growing sense of independence, young people are often juggling school, exams, friendships, family life, sport and busy after-school schedules. Finding time to rest, understand how they’re feeling and ask for support can be challenging.
For some teenagers, the main concern may be painful or unpredictable periods. For others, it might be stress, difficulty switching off, disrupted sleep, low energy, digestive discomfort, headaches or sports-related aches and tension. Whatever they are experiencing, their concerns deserve to be taken seriously.
I’ve created the Teen Clinic at NRQi Studio to offer a calm, welcoming space where young people can feel listened to and supported. My approach considers the whole person: their physical and emotional wellbeing, daily routines, interests and the pressures they may be facing. Care is tailored to each teenager, with clear explanations and respect for their comfort, preferences and pace.
In my work with women, I often hear how menstrual difficulties began in their teens, long before they received support. Those conversations have reinforced how important it is for young people to feel comfortable talking about their health. Menstrual care remains an important part of the Teen Clinic, alongside a broader focus on wellbeing throughout adolescence.
Through the clinic, I aim to:
Make space for teens to be heard, with time to discuss concerns and ask questions without embarrassment or judgement.
Build understanding of their bodies, including recognising patterns in symptoms, energy, sleep and menstrual cycles where relevant.
Explore everyday pressures, such as school, exams, friendships and the demands of sport and training.
Offer personalised treatment and practical guidance, adapted to their needs and comfort.
Encourage confidence in seeking support, helping teenagers take an active role in their health and wellbeing.
The Teen Clinic runs on Sundays, 12–6pm, to fit around school, sport and family life.
To learn more about me and my approach to teenage menstrual health—one part of the wider Teen Clinic—please watch the video below.
Conditions Supported
Every teenager’s needs are different. The Teen Clinic offers space to discuss a range of physical and emotional concerns, explore what may be contributing to them and consider an appropriate, personalised approach to care.
Concerns we can discuss include:
Stress and emotional wellbeing — school and exam pressures, feeling overwhelmed, worries, irritability or changes in mood.
Sleep and energy — difficulty winding down, disrupted sleep, tiredness or feeling run down.
Headaches and migraines — including headaches that occur around the menstrual cycle.
Digestive discomfort — bloating, tummy discomfort or changes in digestion, including symptoms that worsen before a period.
Muscle tension and sports-related concerns — aches, physical discomfort and recovery needs, alongside any medical or physiotherapy care.
Menstrual health — period cramps, pelvic discomfort, heavy or prolonged periods, irregular cycles or long gaps between periods.
Premenstrual symptoms — mood changes, tearfulness, irritability, fatigue, sleep difficulties or other symptoms around the period.
Skin concerns — changes or flare-ups during puberty or around the menstrual cycle. so be discussed with a GP.
Puberty-related questions are welcome too, including concerns before a first period. Conversations and care are adapted to each young person’s age, understanding and comfort.
Heavy or prolonged periods, persistent pelvic pain or long gaps between periods should also be discussed with a GP.
Getting to Know Their Cycle
If your teen has started their periods, you’re welcome to download and print the NRQi Studio Period Tracker below.
Your teen can use it to record their cycle and symptoms, with your help if they would like it. Bring the tracker to appointments so we can explore patterns together and build a clearer picture of their experiences. This helps inform their care and encourages them to feel more confident talking about their menstrual health.
Frequently Asked Questions
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A Teen Clinic appointment is calm, age-appropriate and focused on helping your teen feel safe and understood.
A Typical NRQi Studio Teen Clinic Treatment includes:
A health history review and cycle pattern discussion
Traditional Chinese Medicine diagnosis
A tailored treatment plan which may include acupuncture and other Traditional Chinese Medicine therapies such as cupping, electro acupuncture, gua sha, heat lamp therapy and tui na massage where appropriate. Treatments are discussed thoroughly and require patient consent.
Practical guidance on sleep, stress, nourishment and cycle tracking/monitoring
Please note: Treatment is always adapted to the patient’s comfort level.
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Yes, for safeguarding reasons and patient comfort, all patients under 16 must attend with a parent or carer.
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Acupuncture can be supportive, but some symptoms should be assessed by a GP promptly, especially:
Very heavy bleeding, flooding or frequent soaking through period products
Fainting, severe dizziness, breathlessness or suspected anaemia
Pain that is escalating, persistent outside the period or not responding to usual care
Periods stopping for several months after previously occurring
Any concern about pregnancy, infection or severe mood symptoms
If needed, I can also recommend what to discuss with your GP so you feel clear and confident.
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The Teen Clinic runs on Sundays at NRQi Studio. Appointments are limited to keep the clinic calm and unhurried so your teen feels relaxed and supported.
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New Patient Visit - £65 (80 minutes)
Follow-up visit - £60 (50 minutes)
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The number of visits a patient might need varies because everyone’s body responds differently to acupuncture and Chinese medicine. I recommend the following plan:
- 1x New Patient Appointment
- 3x Follow-up Appointments (1-2 weeks apart)
- Monthly follow-ups to continue to balance the body so monthly cycles will stay healthy. -
Acupuncture needles are inserted often in the feet, legs, arms, hands, shoulders, abdomen and face. Consent is always asked before needles are inserted. If your teen doesn’t want to have needles on a certain part of her body, that is not a problem. I’m here to work with your teen to support her comfort and wellbeing.
Click the link below for more specific FAQ’s related to acupuncture, Traditional Chinese medicine and your Teen Period Clinic visit
What the Research Says
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This randomised controlled trial assigned women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) to low-frequency electroacupuncture, a physical exercise program, or no intervention over 16 weeks and tracked outcomes including menstrual frequency. The study reported that both electroacupuncture and exercise improved menstrual frequency compared with no intervention, with electroacupuncture showing the stronger effect in the paper’s overall conclusions. The authors also reported no short-term or long-term adverse events in the exercise group or the no-intervention group (and discuss safety across groups in the paper). As with many trials in this area, the findings are specific to women with PCOS and the intervention protocol used, so they should be interpreted as supportive evidence rather than definitive proof for all causes of irregular cycles. PubMed+2Physiology Journals+2
Read the article (DOI):
https://doi.org/10.1152/ajpendo.00495.2010PubMed record:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20943753/ -
This prospective, randomized controlled clinical trial investigated whether repeated acupuncture could improve ovulation frequency in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Thirty-two women were randomized to receive either acupuncture with manual and low-frequency electrical stimulation or an attention control (meetings with a physical therapist), delivered twice weekly for 10–13 weeks. The primary outcomes included ovulation frequency during treatment and changes in LH secretion patterns, alongside secondary hormonal outcomes. The study reported that ovulation frequency was higher in the acupuncture group than in the control group during the treatment period, and that multiple circulating sex steroid levels decreased in the acupuncture group, while LH secretion patterns were not affected. The authors concluded that repeated acupuncture treatments resulted in higher ovulation frequency in lean/overweight women with PCOS compared with the attention control used in this study. PubMed+1
Read the article (DOI):
https://doi.org/10.1152/ajpendo.00039.2013PubMed record:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23482444/ -
This systematic review searched studies published between 2002 and 2012 and summarised clinical trials of acupuncture and herbal medicine for premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). Across the included studies many participants reported meaningful symptom improvement (often described as 50% or greater reduction from baseline) and the authors noted no serious adverse events in the included interventions. The review also emphasised that the overall evidence base was limited with variability in study quality, diagnostic criteria, and outcome measures which makes firm conclusions difficult. PubMed+2PMC+2
Read the article (DOI):
https://doi.org/10.1186/1472-6882-14-11
PubMed record:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24410911/
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This systematic review and meta-analysis searched 15 databases through February 2016 to evaluate randomized controlled trials of acupuncture for PCOS. Across included trials acupuncture was associated with improved menstruation rate and ovulation rate compared with no acupuncture and it was also linked to changes in several hormone and metabolic markers (including LH, LH/FSH ratio, testosterone, and fasting insulin) when used alongside medication in some studies. The authors note that overall certainty was low to very low due to study limitations and they call for larger higher-quality trials. PubMed
Read the article (DOI):
https://doi.org/10.1097/MD.0000000000007066
PubMed record:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28591042/
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This systematic review and meta-analysis searched 10 databases up to December 2017 and included 60 randomized controlled trials with 49 trials pooled in meta-analyses. Across studies acupuncture was associated with greater reductions in menstrual pain and related symptoms compared with no treatment and in some comparisons versus NSAIDs. Some trials also reported that benefits persisted for a short follow-up period though the authors note important limitations due to variable study quality and methodology. PubMed
Read the article (DOI): https://doi.org/10.1097/MD.0000000000011007 PubMed
PubMed record: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29879061/ -
This American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) Committee Opinion provides clinical guidance on evaluating and managing period pain (dysmenorrhea) in adolescents and when to suspect secondary causes, particularly endometriosis. In its discussion of non-pharmacologic and complementary options, ACOG notes that acupuncture (alongside options such as TENS, herbal preparations, and yoga) has demonstrated improvement in dysmenorrhea in some studies, while the wider evidence base varies in quality. The guidance also sets out a practical clinical pathway: when symptoms fit primary dysmenorrhea, empiric treatment should be started, and if there is no clinical improvement within 3–6 months, clinicians should investigate secondary causes and adherence, with endometriosis considered in persistent, clinically significant cases.
ACOG guidance page:
https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/committee-opinion/articles/2018/12/dysmenorrhea-and-endometriosis-in-the-adolescentRead the article (DOI):
https://doi.org/10.1097/AOG.0000000000002978PubMed record:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30461694/ -
This study used resting-state fMRI in 23 women with PMS, scanning before and after a short session of electroacupuncture at SP6, and reported changes in regional brain activity measures. The authors interpret this as neuroimaging evidence that acupuncture stimulation at SP6 may influence neural activity patterns associated with PMS. This is best used as mechanism-oriented support rather than direct proof of symptom improvement. PubMed
Read the article (DOI):
https://doi.org/10.3389/fnhum.2018.00104PubMed record:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29904344/ -
This article describes a 17-year-old with dysfunctional uterine bleeding (very frequent/heavy bleeding) and severe dysmenorrhoea (period pain) that had not improved after around 16 months of hormonal treatments.
The patient began traditional Chinese acupuncture while continuing an oral contraceptive pill. Treatment was delivered frequently at first (about three sessions per week) and then tapered, totalling 27 sessions over 17 weeks. The practitioner selected acupuncture points according to a TCM diagnosis, using a mix of scalp/ear points and points on the limbs and lower abdomen.
What changed? The report says the patient’s cycle normalised after about 4 weeks (10 treatments). Her periods reportedly stayed regular throughout the rest of acupuncture care and remained regular for 6 months after treatment stopped. The report also describes substantial improvement in period pain.
Safety notes: No serious complications were reported. Session notes mention brief dizziness after at least one treatment, suggesting any side effects were mild and short-lived in this case.
How to interpret this evidence: This is a single case report (one person, no control group) and the patient was also taking hormonal medication, so it can’t show that acupuncture caused the improvement. It’s best viewed as promising but preliminary evidence that acupuncture may be helpful for some people with abnormal uterine bleeding and severe period pain—and a reason to support further controlled research.
Read the article (DOI):
https://doi.org/10.1136/bcr-2018-224725PubMed record:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30093465/ -
This case report describes a 16-year-old with irregular cycles and prolonged heavy bleeding for 41 days (puberty menorrhagia), with ultrasound findings including endometrial thickening and enlarged polycystic ovaries. Based on Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) assessment, she received manual acupuncture at SP4, PC6, KI14, SP10, LR1, and CV6 once daily for one month (20 minutes per session, no electrical stimulation); the paper notes she continued her regular allopathic medication during this period. The authors report that bleeding stopped by day 6, and that follow-up ultrasound after the month showed reduced uterine/ovarian size and resolution of endometrial thickening, with the next menstruation occurring on time after treatment. They also state that no adverse effects were reported during the acupuncture period. Because this is a single-patient case report (no control group, and with concurrent medication), it’s best interpreted as suggestive/illustrative evidence rather than proof that this protocol will reliably treat puberty menorrhagia or irregular cycles in broader populations.
Read the article (DOI):
https://doi.org/10.1089/acu.2024.0053PubMed record:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39712516/
Let’s Talk About Periods: The Vocabulary
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The words below are commonly used by doctors, schools, and health resources when talking about periods. Knowing the language can help you describe symptoms clearly and get the right support.
Menstrual cycle
The monthly pattern of hormone changes that prepares the body for a possible pregnancy. A cycle is counted from Day 1 of bleeding to the day before the next period starts.Period (menstruation)
The days you bleed. This is when the lining of the uterus sheds.Menarche
Your first period.Cycle length
How many days are in the cycle. For many teens, cycles can be irregular in the first few years after menarche.Ovulation
When an ovary releases an egg. Not every cycle includes ovulation, especially in the first few years of periods.Follicular phase
The first part of the cycle, leading up to ovulation.Luteal phase
The second part of the cycle, after ovulation, leading up to a period.Spotting
Light bleeding between periods, often just a few drops or light staining. -
Dysmenorrhea
Medical term for painful periods. This can include cramps, back pain, nausea, loose stools, or headache around the period.Primary dysmenorrhea
Period pain that is not caused by another condition, often linked to prostaglandins (chemical messengers that trigger uterine contractions).Secondary dysmenorrhea
Period pain linked to an underlying condition (for example endometriosis). This is more likely if pain is severe, worsening over time, or not responding to usual support.Pelvic pain
Pain felt low in the abdomen or pelvis. It can occur during a period, around ovulation, or at other times. -
Heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB)
A practical term for heavy periods that disrupt daily life (for example soaking through pads or tampons regularly, needing to change overnight, or bleeding that lasts unusually long).Menorrhagia
Older medical term often used to describe heavy menstrual bleeding.Clots
Thicker pieces of blood that can appear in heavier flow. Small clots can be normal, but frequent large clots with heavy bleeding may need assessment.Prolonged bleeding
Bleeding that lasts longer than expected, especially if it is heavy or draining.
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Amenorrhea
No periods.Primary amenorrhea: periods have not started by the expected age range.
Secondary amenorrhea: periods started, then stopped for several months.
Oligomenorrhea
Infrequent periods, meaning long gaps between cycles.Polymenorrhea
Frequent periods, meaning cycles that are unusually short.Irregular menstruation
A general term for cycles that vary a lot month to month.Anovulatory cycle
A cycle where ovulation does not happen. This can be more common in early teen years. -
PMS (Premenstrual Syndrome)
A group of physical and emotional symptoms that happen in the days before a period and ease once bleeding starts. Examples include mood changes, bloating, breast tenderness, acne, cravings, and fatigue.PMDD (Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder)
A more severe form of premenstrual mood symptoms that can significantly affect daily life and relationships. -
Endometriosis
A condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus and can cause significant pain, heavy bleeding and fatigue. It can begin in the teen years.PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)
A hormone-related condition that can be associated with irregular periods, acne, excess hair growth and sometimes weight and blood sugar changes.Fibroids
Non-cancerous growths in the uterus that can contribute to heavy bleeding and pressure symptoms. Less common in teens, but sometimes mentioned in discussions about heavy periods.Anaemia (iron deficiency)
Low iron, often caused by heavy bleeding. Signs can include fatigue, dizziness, breathlessness, paleness and headaches.
Nutritional Advice
Because acupuncture supports the whole body, menstrual cycle care works best when it is combined with daily nourishment and steady habits. The food you eat can influence energy, mood, cramps and how smoothly your cycle flows. Click the button below to explore our guidance on nourishing your body with mindfulness and balance to support a healthier cycle.
A Recent Success Story from the Teen Clinic
When this 16-year-old first came to see me, her periods were negatively impacting her quality of life and overall happiness. Each month, she was dealing with menstrual cramps rated at 10/10 for pain, along with a migraine on the first day of every cycle. To cope, she was taking pain relief just to get through the day. Additionally, her sleep was disrupted. She was waking in the night, struggling to get back to sleep and her fatigue was high at 8/10. All of this was happening while trying to keep up with the pressures of everyday life as a busy, active teenager.
After five fortnightly acupuncture sessions, things began to change steadily, cycle by cycle:
She had no migraine on Day 1 of her most recent period, which had never happened before!!
Her menstrual cramps and associated pain reduced from 10/10 to 5/10.
She went from taking pain relief every six hours plus prescription medication to taking just one painkiller on Day 1.
She began sleeping through the night.
Her fatigue reduced from 8/10 to 4/10.
Her mood swings became much less intense.
Her period flow became lighter and more manageable.
This is often how Chinese medicine works. I look for gradual, meaningful change over time as the body becomes more regulated and supported. Painful periods may be common, but that does not mean they should be dismissed or simply accepted as something a teenager has to live with.
If your teenager is struggling with painful periods, migraines, fatigue or difficult cycle symptoms, the Teen Clinic at NRQi Studio offers calm, personalised support.