

Can Acupuncture Help with PCOS?
Hey Friends!
What is PCOS, Really?

- Hyperandrogenism:
An imbalanced increase in androgen hormones (like testosterone), which cause issues like unwanted hair growth, male-patterned baldness, acne, or weight gain. - Ovulatory dysfunction:
When the ovaries become cystic, they fail to ovulate normally and the result is irregular or missing periods, or infertility. - Hyperinsulinemia and insulin resistance:
There is a link between PCOS and insulin resistance, which makes it more likely for those with PCOS to develop type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and even cardiovascular conditions. - Other symptoms may include:
- Dark patches of skin
- Long bouts of PMS
- LH:FSH ratio of 2:1
- Pain during intercourse
- Changes in weight
Damp and Stuck
Women who have this classic type of PCOS tend to be overweight or feel heavy or weighed down. They may have a long history of eating a standard American diet and might be pre-diabetic. They are often tired and find it difficult to maintain an active lifestyle. Their periods have been irregular for some time and they are used to feeling lethargic, moody, and “blah.”
Dry and Stuck
This type of PCOS tends to occur in women who are thin, rather than overweight. Unlike their damp-type sisters, they may have had regular cycles for most of their lives, but that all changed after going on the birth control pill. Now, they find themselves with irregular or absent periods, tired, and stuck. They may feel stressed, anxious, or irritable.
Can Acupuncture Help PCOS?

- Acupuncture has a regulatory effect on follicle-stimulating hormone (FHS), luteinizing hormone (LH), and androgen hormones to rebalance the reproductive system.
- Acupuncture can improve healing blood flow to the ovaries.
- Acupuncture can reduce the high levels of androgens like testosterone that contribute to PCOS.
- Acupuncture can help increase insulin sensitivity in those with resistance or pre-diabetes.
- Acupuncture reduces excess inflammation in the body, both a contributing factor and side effect of PCOS.
- Acupuncture helps to manage stress, anxiety, and worry and calm the nervous system, allowing for better hormone balance and general wellness.
- Acupuncture can help to manage cravings and improve digestive function in those with damp-type PCOS.
- Acupuncture, along with Chinese herbs, can nourish and supplement yin and blood in those with dry-type PCOS.
Overcoming PCOS with a Holistic Approach


Restore at Angela Yvonne Acupuncture

Hi! I'm Angela
Acupuncturist, Herbalist, Integrative Wellness Consultant and Mood-Gut expert.
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