Does acupuncture hurt?

Not really. Acupuncture needles are extremely thin—much finer than injection needles. You may feel a slight pinch, warmth, tingling, or a mild dull ache at some points, but most people find it deeply relaxing. Many even fall asleep during the treatment.

How many sessions will I need?

It depends on the condition being treated. Acute issues (recent injuries, stress, mild pain) often improve in 3–6 sessions. Chronic conditions (long-term pain, hormonal imbalances, burnout) often require regular sessions for several weeks or months, followed by maintenance care. After your first session, we’ll discuss a personalised treatment plan.

How do I prepare for my treatment?

Eat a light meal (not too full, not too hungry). Wear loose, comfortable clothing. Avoid caffeine or alcohol before treatment. Stay hydrated and try to arrive calm and relaxed.

What happens during a treatment?

We start with a consultation to discuss your symptoms and health history. I check your pulse and tongue to assess your body’s balance. You lie down, and I place fine needles at key acupuncture points. You rest for 30 minutes, allowing the body to adjust. The needles are removed, and we discuss any aftercare.

What should I do after a treatment?

Drink plenty of tea or water. Avoid intense exercise, alcohol, or heavy meals straight after the treatment. Give yourself time to rest and notice any changes in your body. Some people feel immediate relief, while others notice gradual improvements over the next days.

Yes. Acupuncture is a safe therapy acknowledged by the World Health Organisation when performed by a trained professional. I use sterile, single-use needles and follow strict hygiene protocols.

Can I get acupuncture if I'm pregnant?

Yes. Acupuncture is safe during pregnancy and can help with nausea, fatigue, pain, stress, and labor preparation. However, some acupuncture points are avoided, so always let your acupuncturist know if you're expecting.

How does acupuncture work from a Western perspective?

Acupuncture stimulates the body’s natural healing processes by activating the nervous, immune, and endocrine systems. The fine needles create micro-traumas at specific points, triggering cellular repair and pain relief signals that travel to the brain, helping balance the nervous system, reduce stress, and release healing hormones such as oxytocin, endorphins, and neurotransmitters.

Is acupuncture covered by insurance?

Some insurance plans partially or fully cover acupuncture—check with your provider to see if it’s included in your plan.

· Acupuncture for digestion and IBS ·

Digestive complaints can have a significant impact on your daily life. There is often more going on than just what you eat: stress, emotions and lifestyle all play a role in how your digestive system functions.

Common symptoms include:

· Irritable bowel syndrome: cramping, bloating, diarrhoea or constipation

· Acid reflux, heartburn or a persistently tight stomach

· Nausea or feeling full quickly

· Fatigue and brain fog related to digestion

· A gut that reacts strongly to stress or emotions

How acupuncture supports digestion:

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, digestion is governed by the Spleen and Stomach. When these weaken — through stress, irregular eating or emotional tension — the body struggles to properly digest and absorb. This can lead to stagnation, bloating, fatigue or pain.

Acupuncture helps calm the gut-brain connection, strengthen digestive function and restore balance. Alongside treatment, I offer personal advice on nutrition and lifestyle, drawing on both TCM principles and modern insights.

Sessions take place in my quiet practice space in the centre of Amsterdam. Curious if acupuncture could support you?
Feel free to get in touch.

Contact me

· Acupuncture for digestion and IBS ·

Digestive complaints can have a significant impact on your daily life. There is often more going on than just what you eat: stress, emotions and lifestyle all play a role in how your digestive system functions.

Common symptoms include:

How acupuncture supports digestion:

Acupuncture helps calm the gut-brain connection, strengthen digestive function and restore balance. Alongside treatment, I offer personal advice on nutrition and lifestyle, drawing on both TCM principles and modern insights.

Kelly Marcus ·