Chinese Medicine has been addressing Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome for over a thousand years. Written texts as far back as the 1200’s distinguish multiple causes of PCOS, and establish connections between it and insulin resistance, adrenal exhaustion, and hormone imbalance. It’s very much a root vs. branch situation, where the branches represent the symptoms: lack of ovulation, infertility, weight gain, acne, hirsutism – but the true source of the problem lies hidden like a root system that must be unearthed in order to prevent those symptoms from growing back. This is where Chinese Medicine excels, at GETTING TO THE ROOT.

The primary system involved with PCOS is always the Kidney system, which relates directly to reproductive functions and the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal axis. Lack of ovulation or adrenal exhaustion clearly denotes a Kidney deficiency. The Spleen/Pancreas comes into play when there are accompanying symptoms like obesity, light periods, and insulin resistance. The Liver system is closely related to issues surrounding menstruation, its primary function being to ensure free-flow of energy and blood throughout the body. When Liver Qi and Liver Blood stagnate, women typically experience either an absence of periods or very painful periods, mood swings, and in the case of PCOS, hirsutism. The essential function of cleansing the body of toxins, including excess circulating hormones, also explains why the Liver is key in treating PCOS.

So HOW exactly does Acupuncture increase blood flow? Strategic insertion of needles stimulates the sympathetic nervous response, which in turn dilates blood vessels, increasing the space for blood to flow through. Points can actually be used to increase OR decrease blood flow within the body. In some instances there is a blockage of vital nourishing blood, while other cases may call for blood to be restrained, as with dysfunctional uterine bleeding. Studies have also demonstrated how particular acupuncture points increase flow to targeted areas such as the uterus, limbs, and various organs. This translates to kinder periods, improved organ function, hormone regulation, and significantly reduced blood glucose levels.

Traditionally, a combination of Acupuncture, Herbal medicine, and Diet are all employed to correct the areas of imbalance at the root of PCOS. Acupuncture triggers the body to restore it’s innate ability to self-regulate, while herbs offer a safe, plant-based chemical component to speed the body’s recovery. Often, different points and herbal formulas are prescribed for each phase of the menstrual cycle to bring the endocrine system back online and reinforce the natural rhythm of the hormone cascade. Once this rhythm is reestablished, patients are able to self-maintain without intervention, and develop a keener sense of their own internal balance.