Our expertise has always been in TCM women’s gynaecology, and over the years, we’ve met many female patients with PCOS. Many of them share almost the same struggles which are irregular or missing periods, weight gain, acne breakouts, or months or even years of trying for a baby without success.
While conventional treatments often focus on symptom control, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) takes a different route to restore balance to your body so your hormones can function as they should, naturally.
But first, let's understand what is exactly PCOS...
What is PCOS?
PCOS, polycystic ovary syndrome, is one of the most common endocrine and metabolic disorders among women.
It is a hormonal imbalance that results in the ovaries failing to fully mature an egg. Follicles begin to develop and build up fluid but do not progress to the point where they release an egg, thus, there will be no ovulation.
Some of the semi-developed follicles turn into little fluid-filled sacs known as cysts. Under ultrasound, the ovaries look enlarged with multiple small cysts below the entire surface so this is where the name “polycystic ovaries” comes from.
Without the progesterone that matured follicles would produce, menstruation becomes irregular or absent. Cysts make androgens, which can prevent ovulation and interfere with the normal production of female hormones, such as estrogen and progesterone.
Common symptoms of PCOS
- Irregular menstruation or amenorrhea (no menstruation)
- Weight gain or obesity
- Excessive or abnormal hair growth
- Mood swings and irritability
- Acne
- Enlarged ovaries covered with cysts
- Insulin resistance or impaired glucose metabolism
- Infertility
TCM and PCOS
In TCM, PCOS is due to Kidney Yang Deficiency and Accumulation of Dampness (fluid-filled cysts). TCM believes menstruation is closely related to the Kidneys. Insufficient Kidney Yang will prevent follicles from developing normally and discharging smoothly.
Acupuncture is a well-known TCM treatment that can significantly reduce pain and improve hormonal balance, making it a non-invasive, natural yet effective treatment option.
Acupuncture can help to:
- Regulate the menstrual cycle
- Improve ovary and uterus function
- Enhance fertility by improving blood flow to reproductive organs
- Reduce insulin resistance
- Support weight loss
Our 4-stage treatment approach for PCOS
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During menstrual period – Promote circulation, expel stasis and dampness
- Herbs like Dang Gui, Chuan Xiong, and Tao Ren to activate blood circulation and tonify blood.
- Acupuncture to improve blood circulation, promote smooth menstruation, and clear out stasis and dampness.
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Before ovulation – Tonify Qi, strengthen Kidney and Spleen
- Acupuncture to improve Qi and blood flow to reproductive organs, strengthen Kidney and Spleen to clear dampness.
- Herbs to strengthen Kidney and Spleen, such as red dates, mulberries, Huang Qi, and Chinese yam.
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During ovulation – Promote ovulation by promoting the transformation of Yin and Yang
- Herbs to tonify Kidney Yang, such as Du Zhong, He Shou Wu, and black beans.
- Acupuncture to promote ovulation and strengthen Kidney.
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After ovulation – Tonify Kidney Yang and Spleen
- Herbs such as Du Zhong, Xu Duan, Chinese yam, Shu Di, and Bai Shao.
- Acupuncture to strengthen ovaries and uterus, restore overall circulation, and strengthen Kidney and Spleen function.
Why choose TCM for PCOS?
- A holistic approach – Treats the root cause rather than just managing symptoms, leading to long-term benefits.
- Natural and effective – TCM herbs are more natural and gentle to the body, with little to no side effects compared to synthetic hormones.
- Enhance fertility – TCM improves reproductive health and can increase the chances of natural conception.
- Personalised treatments – Everyone’s body constitution is unique, so treatment plans are customised based on individual conditions and symptoms.
Living with PCOS symptoms like irregular periods, sudden weight gain, thinning hair, acne breakouts, or constant fatigue can be frustrating and exhausting. You are encouraged to come for a consultation, so we can understand your body’s condition and explore how TCM may help bring it back into balance.