Case study: Jane (not her real name) was on the pill for around 10 years. After coming off the pill, she found that her menstrual cycle was irregular ranging from 45-65 days. Jane was diagnosed with PCOS - having 2 / 3 symptoms (irregular periods and blood tests showing high levels of testosterone). Jane also worked in a high pressured stressful environment. Jane was prescribed Letrozole to help induce ovulation and took this for 6 months. Whilst the medication helped Jane to ovulate, Jane wanted a more natural way to regulate her menstrual cycle. After a few acupuncture treatments, Jane started her menstrual bleed. She continued with her acupuncture treatments to continue to regulate her menstrual cycle. Her stress levels also decreased and Jane found herself calmer when dealing with work stresses. Moreover, the acne spots on her jaw also subsided and felt less bloated (to the extent that she dropped a dress size from being less bloated).
Introduction
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common hormonal disorders affecting women of reproductive age. Characterized by irregular periods, excess androgen (male hormone) levels, and ovarian cysts, PCOS can lead to symptoms like infertility, weight gain, acne, and excessive hair growth. While conventional treatments like hormonal medications and lifestyle changes are often prescribed, an increasing number of women are exploring complementary therapies like acupuncture for managing PCOS symptoms.
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
PCOS is a condition in which a large number of follicles stop developing, which in turn look like cysts in the ovaries. The underlying pathophysiology of PCOS is still lacking, however, one of the popular theories is that of increased production of luteinising hormone (LH) causing a hyper secretion of androgens, which affects the eggs’ ability to mature. This may explain why common symptoms of PCOS are irregular or no periods, acne or oily skin, weight gain, infertility, thinning or hair loss, hirsutism (NHS, 2022).
Tests for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
According to the NHS, a diagnosis of PCOS can be made if at least 2 of the 3 criteria have been met:
a) irregular periods - indicating that the ovaries do not release eggs
b) blood tests - known as a Free Androgen Index (FAI) test. If a patient is having periods, a sample taken during or shortly after her menses (day 1-5 of cycle) is the most suitable for diagnosis for PCOS: a sample taken later in the cycle may give a misleadingly high testosterone result (Lothian Primary Care guidelines, 2013).
c) an ultrasound can be conducted. This examination looks for the presence of at least 12 follicles measuring 2-9 mm in diameter (looking like a string-of-pearls), and / or an ovarian volume of > 10ml (Lothian Primary Care guidelines, 2013). However, according to John Hopkins Medicine (2022), it is interesting to note that some women with PCOS do not have cysts.
PCOS lifestyle factors
Patients with PCOS are more likely to have first-degree female relatives, such as sisters and mothers with PCOS (Kahsar-Miller et al, 2001). Obesity is also a major cause of insulin resistance and up to 70% of women with PCOS are insulin resistant (Watson, 2021) which can lead to type 2 diabetes.
What Is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a key component of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), where thin needles are inserted into specific points on the body to stimulate energy flow. The practice aims to balance the body's energy, improve blood circulation, reduce inflammation, and promote healing. Acupuncture is commonly used to treat a wide range of conditions, including chronic pain, anxiety, digestive issues, and hormonal imbalances.
How Does Acupuncture Relate to PCOS?
Acupuncture is thought to have a beneficial effect on hormonal imbalances, which can potentially improve the symptoms of PCOS. Here's how acupuncture may help:
Regulation of Hormones Acupuncture has been shown to influence the endocrine system, which regulates hormone production. In women with PCOS, acupuncture may help balance estrogen, progesterone, and insulin levels. By addressing these imbalances, acupuncture could restore regular menstrual cycles, a common challenge for women with PCOS.
Improved Insulin Sensitivity Insulin resistance is a hallmark of PCOS, and it contributes to symptoms like weight gain and difficulty losing weight. Acupuncture may help improve insulin sensitivity, making the body's cells more responsive to insulin. This can help lower blood sugar levels and may support weight management and overall metabolic health.
Increased Blood Flow to the Ovaries Acupuncture is believed to improve blood circulation throughout the body, including to the ovaries. Increased blood flow to the ovaries may support better ovarian function, reduce cyst formation, and enhance fertility, which is a major concern for many women with PCOS who struggle with trying to get pregnant.
Reduction in Inflammation Chronic inflammation is often present in women with PCOS, contributing to hormonal imbalances and the development of cysts. Acupuncture has anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce this inflammation, potentially alleviating symptoms such as acne and excessive hair growth.
Stress Reduction Stress plays a significant role in exacerbating PCOS symptoms. High stress levels can disrupt the balance of hormones, leading to irregular periods and other symptoms. Acupuncture promotes relaxation and helps regulate the body's response to stress, which can be beneficial in managing PCOS.
Research on Acupuncture for PCOS
Emerging studies suggest that acupuncture may offer several benefits for women with PCOS. Research highlights its potential to:
Improve menstrual cycle regularity.
Enhance ovulation rates in women experiencing infertility.
Reduce androgen levels, addressing symptoms like acne and excessive hair growth.
Improve insulin sensitivity, aiding in weight management.
A final word
Acupuncture can help address hormonal imbalances, improving metabolic health, and alleviating stress. Combined with lifestyle changes and medical interventions, acupuncture may provide a holistic approach to managing PCOS symptoms.
If you’re struggling with PCOS and looking for alternative therapies, acupuncture might be worth exploring as part of your journey toward better health.
Further reading
John Hopkins Medicine (2022). Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/polycystic-ovary-syndrome-pcos
Kahsar-Miller, M.D., Nixon, C., Boots, L.R., Go, R.C. and Azziz, R. (2001). Prevalence of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in first-degree relatives of patients with PCOS. Fertility and Sterility, Volume 75, Issue 1 https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0015028200016629
Lothian Guideline for the Diagnosis of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) in Primary Care. (2013). V1.1. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/53b1670ee4b0be242b013ed7/t/543ee6cbe4b0e172550236ac/1413408459277/038_Guideline+for+Diagnosis+of+Polycystic+Ovary+Syndrome+%28PCOS%29+in+Primary+Care.pdf
Underlying mechanisms of acupuncture therapy on polycystic ovary syndrome: Evidences from animal and clinical studies
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9637827/
NHS Diagnosis-Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (2022)
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/polycystic-ovary-syndrome-pcos/diagnosis/
Watson, S. (2021). Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment. Heathline website. https://www.healthline.com/health/polycystic-ovary-disease#causes
Tags: PCOS, acupuncture for PCOS, hormonal imbalance, natural remedies for PCOS, PCOS and fertility; Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) acupuncture,
Sarah San Acupuncture is located near Esher, Cobham, Claygate, Oxshott, Walton on Thames, Weybridge, Surrey.
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