FAQs

Do I need to know exactly what is wrong before booking?

No. Many people come to acupuncture because they know they are not feeling like themselves and want support. Others may come because they have a long list of Western Medicine diagnoses that they want support with. In both cases, treatment starts with a conversation and initial diagnostic session that is used to create a personalised treatment. 

What should I wear?

Ideally, I recommend patients wear loose comfortable clothing. This allows you to feel comfortable during treatment and loose clothes allows for easier access to more acupuncture points. I will have patient gowns available for you to change into if needed. 

Are there any side effects?

As acupuncture involves insertion of needles, on occasion you might find a small bruise where a needle was inserted. Occasionally, you might feel tired after treatment but this should pass quickly. 

To help me ensure there are no unwanted side effects, please make sure to let me know of any medication you are taking (e.g. anticoagulants), and let me know if the room feels hot/stuffy, or if you haven't eaten before treatment. 

What if I'm scared of needles? 

It is quite normal for people to be slightly scared of needles, especially if it is your first time getting acupuncture. Acupuncture needles are much thinner than any needle you might have come across before in your GP. Acupuncture needles are so thin that most people won't really feel the needles. 

I will explain every step of the way, and if we find that needles are not for you, I also work with other treatment modalities which might be suitable alternatives like cupping or guasha. 

How many sessions will I need? 

It really depends on your individual circumstances. As a general rule, for less chronic conditions, an initial set of 5-6 treatments might lead to a great reduction in symptoms. However, for conditions that have been present for longer, you might need 10 or more treatments. We will discuss this at the end of your first appointment so you can make an informed decision from the very beginning. 

Is there anything I should do to prepare for my acupuncture session? 

You do not need to do anything special to prepare for your treatment. However, it is best not to be hungry or thirsty, so please make sure you have had some food before you come in. 

How do I pronounce Yayoi?

If you feel nervous about pronouncing Yayoi, please don't worry - you are not alone. I grew up in Mexico where the name naturally split into two syllables and it sounds like "yah-YOY" (although in Mexico City it sometimes ends up sounding closer to "ja-JOY"). I grew up listening to variations of my name, so don't feel pressured to get it exactly right. 

Ready to start your acupuncture journey?