Acupuncture for PCOS

Research shows that acupuncture has positive effects on the treatment of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), which is the most common endocrine disorder of those with ovaries. Its symptoms usually include cysts on the ovaries and irregular or absent menstruation. In addition to being one of the leading causes of infertility, PCOS also heightens the risk of developing hypertension and diabetes. Past research has demonstrated that acupuncture improves menstrual frequency and decreases circulating testosterone in those with PCOS. A recent study investigated whether acupuncture also affects ovulation frequency. Read the complete study here: Acupuncture for Ovulation Induction in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

In the study, thirty-two participants with PCOS were randomly assigned to groups to receive either acupuncture with low-frequency electrical stimulation or meet with a physical therapist (the control group) twice a week for ten to thirteen weeks. The researchers measured the circulating levels of ovarian and adrenal sex steroid serum, which are elevated in those with PCOS. The results showed that these levels were significantly lower in the acupuncture group than the control group. Also, the ovulation frequency of those who received acupuncture was higher than those in the control group.

Overall, the results of this study indicate that acupuncture can improve the condition of those with PCOS and is more effective than meeting solely with a physical therapist.

Curious to see if acupuncture would be a good fit for you? Reach out or book an appointment here.

Source:

Johansson J, Redman L, Veldhuis PP, et al. Acupuncture for ovulation induction in polycystic ovary syndrome: a randomized controlled trial. American Journal of Physiology – Endocrinology and Metabolism. 2013-05-01 16:00:40 2013;304(9):E934- E943.