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Wet cupping is a different procedure from dry cupping. Christine handles it as a separate decision, with its own discussion of risks, precautions and alternatives.

Saying yes to cupping on the shoulders is one decision. Agreeing to a procedure where the skin is pierced before suction is applied is quite another. Bloodletting, or wet, cupping deserves a fuller explanation than a general introduction to cups.

Two techniques, two decisions

Dr Christine Shen, Acupuncturist, works at the Freshwater clinic and regards consent as specific to each technique. Having acupuncture or dry cupping in a previous session does not mean you have agreed to a skin-breaking method. If wet cupping is ever raised, she will describe it on its own terms and give you time to decide.

What the discussion should cover

• Suitability: whether the method is appropriate for your health history.
• Bleeding: how bleeding is managed and what is expected.
• Infection control: the hygiene precautions used.
• Recovery: how the skin is cared for afterwards.
• Alternatives: other approaches that could be considered instead.

Information to share beforehand

Tell Christine early if you take blood-thinning medicines, bruise or bleed easily, heal slowly, or have diabetes or a skin condition. These details belong in the conversation before anything is planned, not on the day. A list of your current medicines, written out in advance, makes this part of the discussion quicker and more accurate.

Looking back after treatment

Before any cupping, choose an everyday activity or symptom you would like to discuss at the next visit. Afterwards, include how comfortable you felt and how the skin recovered. Marks on the skin are only one observation. Whether to continue depends on the original reason, how you responded and what other options exist.

Your right to decline

You can say no to wet cupping at any stage and still continue with other care. Christine would rather you feel certain than agree under pressure. If you are weighing it up, take the information home, talk it over with your GP if you wish, and return to the Freshwater clinic when you are ready to decide.