Infertility Acupuncture, IVF IUI Acupuncture, Microneedling

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder that affects people with ovaries, typically during reproductive years. It impacts ovulation and hormone balance, often leading to symptoms like irregular periods, excess androgen (male hormone) levels, and ovarian cysts.

What Is PCOS?

Core Features:

Irregular or absent periods – due to infrequent or absent ovulation.
Hyperandrogenism – elevated levels of androgens, which may cause acne, excess hair growth, or hair thinning.
Polycystic ovaries – ovaries may appear enlarged with many small follicles (immature eggs).

Associated Symptoms:

Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
Insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes
Infertility
Mood swings or depression
Fatigue

Root Causes Are Complex: Often a combination of genetic, hormonal, and lifestyle factors.

How PCOS Is Viewed in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

In TCM, PCOS isn’t described by the same biomedical terms, but it corresponds to patterns like:

Kidney Yang Deficiency – linked to low metabolism and irregular ovulation.
Phlegm-Damp Accumulation – associated with weight gain, cysts, and sluggish circulation.
Liver Qi Stagnation – often caused by stress, leading to hormonal imbalances and emotional symptoms.
Blood Stasis – contributing to cysts and lack of menstruation.

How Acupuncture Can Help PCOS

Acupuncture is used to restore balance and address both the root causes and symptoms of PCOS:

Regulates Hormones

Improves communication between the brain and ovaries (via the HPO axis)
Helps regulate FSH, LH, estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone

Supports Ovulation

Promotes follicle development and more regular ovulation

Improves Insulin Sensitivity

Aids in reducing insulin resistance, a key factor in PCOS-related weight gain and metabolic issues

Reduces Stress

Balances the nervous system and lowers cortisol, which can affect hormonal cycles

Improves Blood Flow

Enhances circulation to the uterus and ovaries, promoting reproductive health

Often Combined With:

Chinese herbal medicine
Dietary therapy (low glycemic load diets are common)
Lifestyle counseling (especially stress management and movement)
Supplements (like inositol, if advised)

Clinical Evidence:

Studies suggest acupuncture may:

Improve menstrual regularity and ovulation
Reduce testosterone levels
Enhance fertility outcomes
Improve mood and reduce anxiety in PCOS patients

Acupuncture offers a holistic, personalized way to support the complex hormonal and metabolic imbalances of PCOS. It’s especially helpful when used consistently and in combination with other supportive therapies.