5. Conclusions
Acupuncture, PMD
Seventeen sessions of acupuncture treatment provided amelioration of both PMD and PMI symptoms for eight-weeks after termination of treatment. The specific anti-depressive effect of acupuncture is yet to be determined. The longstanding effect of acupuncture is suboptimal. Given serum hormone levels were not altered by acupuncture, the mechanism of action is likely not to be due to changes in reproductive hormones. Acupuncture represents a safe and useful non-pharmacologic intervention option for women with mild to moderate comorbid PMD and PMI, particularly those who are intolerant to or reluctant to receive HRT.