What happens at a first acupuncture appointment?

A first acupuncture appointment does not begin with needles. There is time to understand why you have come, discuss relevant information and explain the plan. Only then do you decide together whether treatment can begin.

A standard Nat Medica acupuncture appointment lasts 60 minutes. This includes conversation, preparation, the treatment itself and an unhurried finish.

Before the appointment: basic information

Brief information is collected before you arrive. This gives Natasza an initial idea of why you are coming. It is not a full diagnosis and does not replace the conversation in the clinic.

Do not send medical records or detailed health information through an ordinary booking field. Relevant information can be discussed through the appropriate private appointment process.

Step 1: a conversation in the clinic

Natasza begins by asking about your current concerns, general wellbeing, medicines and anything that may affect safety. You can also explain what you hope for and what worries you.

This is the time to mention pregnancy, a tendency to faint, fear of needles, skin problems, recent procedures and a complex medical history.

Nat Medica does not provide acupuncture to people taking anticoagulant medicines.

Step 2: an explained plan

Acupuncture points do not need to be only where you feel the problem. They may be selected on the hands, feet, legs, arms, back, abdomen, head or ears.

Natasza explains which areas she proposes to treat. The number of needles varies and does not show the strength or quality of an appointment.

Treatment begins only after the plan is clear and you agree.

Step 3: a comfortable position and privacy

You will usually lie on a treatment table. Removing clothing is often unnecessary. If access to an area requires you to change, Natasza can leave the room and fresh towels are used for privacy.

Say if the position is not comfortable. A cushion can be added, your position can change or the plan can be adapted.

Step 4: placing the needles

Nat Medica uses sterile, single-use needles. They are much finer than injection needles and nothing is injected through them.

You may feel a brief prick. Warmth, tingling, heaviness or a dull ache can follow. Severe pain is not the aim. Tell Natasza if anything feels uncomfortable.

Step 5: time to rest

After the needles are placed, you stay in a comfortable position. You do not need to fall asleep or feel anything special. Some people relax deeply; others remain alert.

You can speak, ask a question or request removal of a needle at any time.

Step 6: an unhurried finish

After the needles are removed, there is time to sit up slowly and say how you feel. Natasza may give individual aftercare advice if it is useful.

Some people feel relaxed or sleepy. Minor tenderness, a tiny drop of blood or a small bruise can occur. A change in your main concern may appear quickly, gradually or not at all.

Do I need to book another appointment immediately?

No. There is no single number of sessions for everyone. You can notice your response and decide for yourself whether acupuncture was useful and whether you want to return.

Natasza can discuss possible next steps, but there is no compulsory package or fixed course.

The most important thing to remember

A first appointment is a collaboration. You do not need to understand acupuncture theory or agree to everything. You have the right to understand the plan, ask questions and make decisions about your comfort throughout.