Infertility Acupuncture, IVF IUI Acupuncture, Microneedling

Poor Ovarian Reserve

Poor Ovarian Reserve (POR) refers to a condition where the ovaries have fewer and/or lower-quality eggs than expected for a person’s age. It’s often identified in women struggling with fertility and is sometimes associated with early signs of perimenopause.

What Is Poor Ovarian Reserve?

Common indicators:

Low Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) levels
Elevated Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH)
Low Antral Follicle Count (AFC) on ultrasound
Irregular or shortened menstrual cycles
Difficulty conceiving

Causes can include:

Natural aging
Genetics
Autoimmune conditions
Previous ovarian surgery or chemotherapy
Unexplained/idiopathic factors

Poor Ovarian Reserve in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

In TCM, poor ovarian reserve is often related to Kidney Essence (Jing) deficiency, which governs reproductive potential and aging. Other contributing patterns may include:

Kidney Yin or Yang Deficiency – affecting hormonal balance
Liver Qi stagnation – blocking the free flow of blood and energy to reproductive organs
Blood deficiency – compromising nourishment to the uterus and ovaries
Spleen deficiency – impacting the creation of Blood and energy

How Acupuncture Can Help Poor Ovarian Reserve

Although acupuncture can't reverse aging or fully restore egg quantity, it can support ovarian function, enhance egg quality, and optimize fertility outcomes, especially when combined with other therapies.

Improves Blood Flow to Ovaries

Enhances nutrient and oxygen delivery to support follicle development

Regulates Hormones

Balances the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian (HPO) axis
Helps normalize FSH, LH, estrogen, and progesterone levels

Supports Follicle Development

May encourage more robust ovarian response in natural or assisted cycles (like IVF)

Reduces Stress & Cortisol

Calms the nervous system, lowering stress hormones that can disrupt hormonal balance

Tonifies Kidney and Liver Systems

Strengthens the body’s foundational energy, supporting better reproductive potential

Holistic Approach in TCM

Often combined with:

Herbal medicine (e.g., to tonify Kidney Jing and support the menstrual cycle)
Moxibustion to warm and nourish reproductive organs
Dietary therapy (foods that nourish Blood and Jing)
Lifestyle guidance (adequate sleep, stress reduction, mindful movement)

Evidence Suggests:

Acupuncture may improve IVF success rates, especially in those with poor ovarian response
It can reduce FSH levels and improve ovarian blood flow
Many women report improvements in cycle quality, mood, and overall well-being

While acupuncture can't "create" more eggs, it plays a vital role in enhancing ovarian function, improving egg quality, and supporting fertility in women with poor ovarian reserve. When used consistently and as part of a personalized plan, it helps restore balance and optimize the body’s natural reproductive potential.