Frequently Asked Questions

Acupuncture involves inserting fine, sterile needles into specific points on the body. Western Medical Acupuncture draws on modern anatomy, physiology and scientific understanding of how stimulating nerves and other tissues may influence pain and other symptoms.

My practice focuses on Western Medical Acupuncture, informed by my clinical nursing background. I provide personalised treatment to support people experiencing symptoms such as pain, muscular tension, stress, sleep difficulties and certain pelvic health concerns.

Acupuncture may be used as part of a wider approach to managing symptoms and supporting wellbeing. Its potential benefits vary depending on the condition and the individual.

Your appointment begins with an assessment and a discussion of your medical history, symptoms and treatment goals.

If acupuncture is appropriate, you will be positioned comfortably while fine, sterile, single-use needles are inserted at selected points. You may notice a brief prick, tingling, warmth, heaviness or a dull ache. Sensations vary, and treatment should be adapted to your comfort.

Depending on your needs, gentle electro-acupuncture may also be considered.

The needles are usually left in place for around 20–30 minutes, depending on your individual treatment plan. You can ask questions or let me know if you feel uncomfortable at any point.

 A few simple steps can help you feel comfortable during treatment:

• Eat a normal, light meal before your appointment rather than attending on an empty stomach.
• Drink water and arrive adequately hydrated.
• Avoid drinking alcohol before treatment.
• Wear comfortable clothing that allows access to the areas being treated.
• Let me know about any changes in your health, medication or symptoms since your last appointment.

If you are feeling unwell, have a fever or have an active infection, please contact me before attending so we can decide whether your appointment should go ahead.

Acupuncture is generally well tolerated when performed by a suitably qualified practitioner, although side effects can occur.

Possible short-term effects include:

• Mild discomfort at the needle site
• Small spots of bleeding or bruising
• Temporary tiredness or drowsiness
• Brief light-headedness or faintness
• Temporary changes in how you feel during or after treatment

Serious complications are uncommon, but no procedure is entirely without risk.

Please let me know how you feel during and after treatment. If you feel light-headed or unusually tired, allow yourself time to recover before driving or undertaking activities that require full concentration.

Acupuncture may be suitable for many people, but it is not appropriate for everyone in every circumstance. Your medical history and current health will be considered before treatment.

Please tell me if you:

• Are pregnant, trying to conceive or receiving fertility treatment
• Have a bleeding disorder or take anticoagulant medication
• Have a pacemaker or another implanted electrical device
• Have a history of fainting or seizures
• Have diabetes, reduced sensation or problems with wound healing
• Have a weakened immune system or are undergoing cancer treatment
• Have lymphoedema or are at risk of developing it
• Have a skin infection, wound or other skin condition in the proposed treatment area
• Have a significant heart condition or a history of heart valve problems
• Have a needle phobia or feel anxious about acupuncture
• Have any other significant medical condition or recent change in health

This information helps me assess whether acupuncture is appropriate and adapt treatment where necessary. Some circumstances may require additional precautions, advice from your healthcare team or postponement of treatment.

Yes. Some conditions, treatment areas or circumstances require acupuncture to be avoided or modified.

Examples include:

• Areas affected by an active skin infection or an unhealed wound
• Areas with significantly reduced sensation, where you may not be able to provide reliable feedback
• Areas affected by lymphoedema or considered at risk of lymphoedema, where specialist assessment and appropriate precautions are important
• Certain areas or techniques where there is an increased risk of bleeding or injury
• Situations where a person cannot remain sufficiently still for treatment
• Certain circumstances during pregnancy, when treatment points and techniques need careful consideration
• Acute or unexplained symptoms that require medical assessment before acupuncture is considered

People receiving cancer treatment may need additional precautions depending on their treatment, blood counts, immune function, bleeding risk and medical history.

If acupuncture is not appropriate at the time of your appointment, I will explain why and discuss whether another approach or further medical advice is needed.

Acupuncture is generally considered safe when performed by a suitably trained practitioner using appropriate clinical precautions. However, risks vary according to a person's health, the treatment being provided and the area being treated.

As a Registered Nurse and AACP-registered Western Medical Acupuncturist, I take a clinically informed approach to assessment and treatment.

I use sterile, single-use acupuncture needles, follow appropriate infection-prevention procedures and maintain professional insurance.

Your medical history, current symptoms and individual circumstances are considered before treatment. If I have concerns about whether acupuncture is appropriate, I will discuss these with you before proceeding.

Some UK health insurance policies cover acupuncture, depending on the insurer, policy terms and practitioner requirements.

If your policy includes acupuncture or complementary therapies, you may be able to claim back some or all of your treatment costs.

I can provide an invoice or receipt to support your claim. However, reimbursement is determined by your insurer, and you remain responsible for paying for your appointment.

Appointments paid for through private health insurance are charged at the full standard treatment price. Discounts and treatment plan savings are not available when claiming through health insurance.

Please check directly with your insurer before booking to confirm your eligibility and any requirements for referrals, authorisation or practitioner registration.

Some UK health insurance providers may include acupuncture in certain policies. These include:

• Bupa
• AXA Health
• Aviva
• Vitality
• WPA
• Simplyhealth

Coverage varies between policies and may change. The inclusion of an insurer in this list does not guarantee that your particular policy covers acupuncture or that your claim will be accepted.

Please contact your insurer directly before booking to confirm your cover, any practitioner requirements and the documentation needed to make a claim.

Acupuncture may help support certain symptoms associated with cancer treatment, although the evidence varies depending on the symptom and individual circumstances.

At Serene AcuHealing, I offer nurse-led Western Medical Acupuncture for people experiencing symptoms during or after cancer treatment. Depending on your individual needs, treatment may be considered to support symptoms such as hot flushes, sleep difficulties, pain, nausea, stress and muscular tension.

As a Registered Nurse with over 20 years of NHS clinical experience, I take a careful, personalised approach, considering your medical history, current or previous cancer treatment, medications and overall health before deciding whether acupuncture is appropriate.

Acupuncture does not treat or cure cancer and is offered only as supportive care alongside conventional medical treatment. Some people may require additional precautions or advice from their oncology team before proceeding.

If you would like to explore whether acupuncture may be appropriate for you, please visit my Cancer Support page or contact me to discuss your circumstances before booking.

If you cannot find the answer you need, you are welcome to contact me at sereneacuhealing@yahoo.com. If you are unsure whether acupuncture is appropriate for your circumstances, I am happy to discuss this with you before you book.