Acupuncture is a safe and potentially effective treatment for overactive bladder symptoms. However, research on this topic is limited.
Overactive bladder (OAB) is a common condition where you feel like you have to pee all the time, often, or suddenly, even when your bladder isn’t full.
Treatment often includes drugs to relax the bladder. However, recent research suggests that acupuncture may be as effective or more effective than drug therapy.
Here’s what you need to know about the treatment and whether it’s right for you.
So far, research into the success of treating OAB with acupuncture looks promising. However, more is needed to draw clear conclusions.
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The combination of acupuncture and medication was also found to be more beneficial for people than medication alone. However, scientists noted that many of the studies had a high risk of bias or had small sample sizes.
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In a small 2023 review of five studies, researchers found that acupuncture improves bladder function by modulating nerves, inhibiting specific fibers, and reducing the number of spontaneous bladder contractions. They concluded that it may be useful for regulation.
Electroacupuncture, which stimulates needles with a weak electrical current, may also be an effective option for treating OAB.
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Acupuncture treatment performed by a qualified professional is
The main risk of acupuncture is unhygienic or improper needle insertion. That’s why it’s important to visit a trained practitioner with a good standard of care.
You may experience some mild symptoms at the insertion site, including:
- pain
- swelling
- bleeding
- allergic skin reaction
However, these effects are usually temporary and are nothing to worry about. Serious side effects of acupuncture include:
If you live in the United States, Healthline has created a database to help you find a qualified acupuncturist in your area. If applicable, you can also narrow down your choices to those who accept your insurance.
Although not all insurance policies cover acupuncture,
Medicare currently only covers acupuncture treatments performed by some specialists for chronic back pain. If so, check with your acupuncturist to see if they have the correct license to bill Medicare.
In general, here are some things to consider when finding the ideal acupuncturist for you:
- Verify credentials: Most states in the United States require a license for acupuncturists. Before hiring a professional, ask to see their credentials, such as licenses and certifications.
- If you are asking for a referral: Your doctor will often recommend or refer you to a qualified acupuncturist who has experience treating your condition.
- Read the review: Reviews and testimonials can help you understand other people’s experiences using acupuncture. You may especially want to find a doctor who has experience treating her OAD.
- Schedule your consultation: Before receiving acupuncture, you may want to ask your acupuncturist if you can schedule an appointment. Visiting the clinic, familiarizing yourself with the practitioner, and evaluating the hygiene protocols may help you decide whether the acupuncturist is right for you.
Other treatments for OAB
- Pelvic floor physical therapy: Pelvic floor physical therapy includes exercises that strengthen the pelvic floor and surrounding muscles, which can reduce symptoms of OAD.
- medicine: Medications to treat OAD may include anticholinergic drugs, antidepressants, and drugs that relax the bladder.
- Botox: A small amount of Botox can help temporarily weaken the OAB muscles.
- Nerve stimulation: Nerve stimulation involves stimulating the nerves that send signals to the bladder. Although more research is needed, it may be an effective treatment for OAD.
- Lifestyle changes: Reducing your intake of substances that can cause bladder discomfort, such as caffeine and alcohol, may reduce OAD symptoms. Consuming too much citrus fruits, acidic and spicy foods, and artificial flavors, sweeteners, and preservatives can make symptoms worse.
- Natural remedies: Inhaling essential oils such as ylang-ylang, lavender, clary sage, and pumpkin seed may relieve symptoms, but more research is needed to know for sure.
- Surgery: Surgery is recommended only in extreme cases.
OAB can cause stress and isolation, so it’s no surprise that it can impact mental health. If you find that your OAB symptoms are adding stress to your life, talking to a therapist can help.
Recent research suggests that acupuncture and electroacupuncture may be effective treatments for curing or reducing symptoms of OAD.
Although the evidence is still limited, acupuncture is considered to be a very low-risk treatment when performed by a qualified professional. It may be worth a try, especially when combined with treatments such as medication or physical therapy.
