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Acupuncture is the insertion of hair-thin sterile needles into specific areas on the body, known as acupoints, in order to achieve a therapeutic effect. These points are located along Qi (energy) meridians that connect to specific body parts or organs, and each point carries a unique function.  

Acupuncture is a pleasant, relaxing, and painless experience. With a skilled practitioner, acupuncture needle insertion should be generally painless. Common sensations following the insertion of an acupuncture needle include a dull achey sensation, a heavy sensation, a warm, tingly sensation, an electric sensation, or muscle twitches. These can occur immediately after insertion or not until later in the treatment. These sensations are normal and expected and are a result of the energy meridians being activated within your body.
If you ever feel a sharp or stabbing pain after the insertion of an acupuncture needle, please communicate that with your acupuncturist so she can adjust or remove the needle.
Most patients report feeling very relaxed and calm during an acupuncture session. 

The amount of treatments you need will vary based on your health concerns, your body constitution, your symptom presentation, and your goals. After your initial appointment, your doctor will curate an appropriate treatment plan for your individualized needs.  
On average, noticeable results begin to appear with 6-12 treatments. Do not be discouraged if you don't feel effects immediately after your first treatment! Each acupuncture treatment builds on each other and creates a compounding effect. Similar to working out at the gym, with consistency and a plan, you will achieve long-term results!
A general rule of thumb is to allow 12 weeks of treatment; this is how long it takes to begin the process of regulating the nervous system and noticing real results! 

In the state of California, acupuncturists who maintain a valid license issued by the Acupuncture Board are legally allowed to practice acupuncture. Board certified acupuncturists must have graduated from a Board-approved college with a Master's degree or higher in Chinese Medicine, and must have completed at least 2,050 hours of didactic and laboratory training and at least 950 hours of supervised clinical instruction.