PCOS and Acupuncture
PCOS, or Polycystic Ovary Syndrome.
The "cysts" in PCOS aren't actually typical cysts. They are actually small, immature follicles (eggs) that started to grow but never got the signal to be released. They get "stuck" in the ovaries, and on an ultrasound, they look like a "string of pearls."
Most doctors look for at least two of these three things to diagnose it:
Irregular Periods: Your cycles are unpredictable, very long, or you don't have them at all because you aren't ovulating regularly.
High Androgens: These are "male-type" hormones (like testosterone). Everyone has them, but in PCOS, levels are higher, which can cause acne, thinning hair on the head, or unwanted hair growth on the face/body.
Polycystic Ovaries: Those "stuck" follicles mentioned above, usually seen on an ultrasound.
The "hidden" side of PCOS is often Insulin Resistance. This is where your body’s cells don't respond well to insulin, so your body pumps out extra to compensate.
High insulin levels tell the ovaries to make more testosterone.
This extra testosterone is what stops the eggs from being released, creating a cycle that is hard to break.
While the exact cause isn't fully known, it’s usually a combination of:
Genetics: It often runs in families.
Inflammation: The body is in a constant state of low-level stress, which can trigger the ovaries to produce more hormones.
Acupuncture Support for PCOS & Fertility
PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) is a common hormonal condition that can affect ovulation, menstrual cycles, and fertility. Many women with PCOS experience irregular periods, hormonal imbalance, or difficulty becoming pregnant.
Acupuncture is commonly used as part of a holistic approach to support reproductive wellness and overall health for women with PCOS.
How Acupuncture May Support Women with PCOS
Supporting Menstrual Cycle Balance
Acupuncture is traditionally used to support hormonal balance and help regulate menstrual cycles, which may support more regular ovulation.
Stress Reduction & Emotional Wellbeing
Living with fertility challenges can feel stressful and emotionally overwhelming. Acupuncture treatments are often deeply relaxing and may help support emotional wellbeing and reduce stress during the fertility journey.
Supporting Overall Wellness
PCOS can affect many aspects of health, including sleep, digestion, energy, and mood. Acupuncture takes a whole-body approach to help support overall balance and wellness.
Supporting Fertility Treatment
Some women choose to combine acupuncture with fertility treatments such as IUI or IVF as part of their fertility support plan.
Hope & Individualized Care
Every woman’s experience with PCOS is different. Many women with PCOS are able to become pregnant naturally or with fertility treatment support. Treatment plans are personalized based on individual symptoms, cycle patterns, and fertility goals to provide gentle, supportive care throughout the journey.