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Questions about stopping, feeling faint, periods or pregnancy are worth raising before treatment. Here is how to bring them into your appointment.

Questions are part of the session

Can I ask you to stop at any time? What happens if I feel light-headed? Does my period or a pregnancy change what you would do? These are sensible questions, and you do not need to save them until treatment is over. Anything that affects your comfort or your decision belongs at the start of the appointment.

Bringing a short list

Before you see Dr Christine Shen, Acupuncturist, jot down a few points you want to raise, along with any changes since your last visit:

• new medicines, illnesses or injuries;
• where you are in your menstrual cycle, or whether you are pregnant or trying to conceive;
• how you felt after previous sessions;
• any worries about needles, fainting or bruising.

Christine has undertaken further study in pregnancy and IVF support, so you can raise those topics openly. If you are pregnant, she will also encourage you to keep your midwife or maternity team informed.

How often, and why

Rather than assuming one set schedule suits everyone, ask how treatment frequency will be decided for you. The answer may depend on your goal, how you respond and practical factors such as work and travel.

Clear expectations make it easier

A session feels much more approachable when the plan, likely sensations and aftercare have been explained plainly. Feel free to ask what each step involves, particularly when a visit pairs needles with massage or some other form of bodywork.

Shaping a goal together

Separate the problem that bothers you from the result you hope for, whether that is more comfort during a daily task, a better understanding of the problem or knowing when to see your GP. Ask how the acupuncture will be looked at over time and what might lead to a new direction.

Keeping your question list in your phone notes means you can add to it whenever something occurs to you, right up until you walk into the Lane Cove clinic.