Supporting Women Through Every Stage of Life

Tell us a little about yourself and what led you into acupuncture?

I originally qualified as a graphic designer and used to design children's books before I married and had two children. When my eldest entered her teens, she caught glandular fever, which developed into a post-viral condition that left her unable to attend school. Post-viral conditions were somewhat anomalous then, and there was little support offered within mainstream medicine.

In desperation, and on a friend's recommendation, I took her to see an acupuncturist. Within a few weeks of treatment, progress was tangible and I became curious to understand more. I went to The College of Integrated Chinese Medicine in Reading, England, to ask questions. I ended up enrolling on a course and graduated three years later.

That was 25 years ago, and I have continued to study and pioneer acupuncture as a safe, drug-free approach to healthcare alongside Western medicine ever since.

You specialise in women's health and fertility. What drew you to this area of practice?

In the early years after leaving college, I tried to gain as much experience as possible in all areas of health, achieving good results. My curiosity led me to undertake many postgraduate studies in various fields, including the role of acupuncture in gynaecology and obstetrics.

My work started gaining attention and I was invited to work in a consulting room on Harley Street. This quickly led to a position opening up for me at The Harley Street Fertility Clinic and The Birth Company, also on Harley Street.

I was then offered practising privileges at the Portland Hospital for Women in Marylebone, London, where I worked as a women's health, fertility and pregnancy specialist.

How would you describe your approach to patient care?

Integrated. I see my work as complementary to Western medicine and am used to working alongside consultants as part of a collaborative team.

I treat holistically and take time to understand my patients on a mental and emotional, as well as a physical, level. My sessions are heart-centred, gentle and transformative. While I work to alleviate symptoms, my focus is always on the root cause of the condition and prevention.

What are some of the most common reasons women come to see you?

Sadly, recurrent miscarriage and fertility issues are increasingly common. I am seeing more women in their late twenties and early thirties struggling to conceive due to hormonal imbalances, low ovarian reserve and poor egg quality.

Pregnant women book appointments to stabilise early pregnancy and alleviate symptoms such as tiredness, morning sickness, carpal tunnel syndrome, mild oedema and backache. In the third trimester, I see women to naturally assist in turning breech babies, alleviate pelvic girdle pain, and gently facilitate labour for women facing booked hospital inductions or health issues that require early delivery.

I also support many high-performing women navigating the complex intersections of demanding corporate careers, acute stress and fertility journeys, including IVF support and pregnancy wellness.

An increasing number of women are also booking appointments for cancer support after active treatment, such as surgery, chemotherapy or radiotherapy, has ended. I support women dealing with long-term hormonal depletion, especially breast cancer survivors taking tamoxifen or aromatase inhibitors who experience hot flushes, joint pain, chronic fatigue and fear of recurrence.

What services do you offer to support women at different stages of life?

I support women through all stages of life, from puberty to menopause, helping with irregular cycles, missed periods, heavy bleeding, endometriosis, PCOS, migraines, hot flushes and fluctuating mood and energy levels.

Treatments are always tailored to the individual based on their unique health background and current emotional needs. I am also a qualified supervisor and mentor, and counselling is offered where appropriate.

Life is full of challenges, and I aim to provide a safe space for reflection, exploration and empowerment alongside effective, science-based treatments.

What do you find most rewarding about the work you do?

I love and am passionate about all aspects of my work. In my work with fertility and pregnancy, helping to make women's dreams come true is incredibly rewarding.

I see my job as a vocation and am committed to providing heart-centred care. Outcomes matter to me, and the most rewarding aspect of my work is witnessing a patient's transition. This can manifest not only as improved health but also as a subtle awakening within the personality.

With treatment, a light often goes on at a deeper level. Patients frequently tell me they have their sparkle back.

Carys practises from Lightwork Northern Ireland in Antrim and Malone Medical Chambers in Belfast, and consults from Babyinc Private Women's Clinic on Devonshire Place, London. Get in touch to arrange a consultation.