Acupuncture for
PCOS & Endometriosis
PCOS Acupuncture in Surrey | Endometriosis Acupuncture in Surbiton
PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) & Endometriosis
PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) and endometriosis are two of the most common conditions affecting women’s reproductive health. Both can cause significant physical discomfort, hormonal imbalances, and emotional distress, impacting fertility, energy levels, and overall wellbeing.
As a practitioner based in Surbiton, Surrey, I offer acupuncture as a gentle, holistic approach to support your body’s natural balance and ease symptoms associated with PCOS and endometriosis.
Acupuncture aims to regulate hormones, reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and reduce the impact of these conditions on your life.
What Are PCOS and Endometriosis?
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
PCOS is a common which may include the following characterised by a combination of symptoms, including:
- Irregular or absent periods
- Elevated levels of androgens (male hormones), which can cause acne, excess hair growth, or hair loss
- Polycystic ovaries (enlarged ovaries containing multiple small fluid-filled sacs)
PCOS may also manifest with insulin resistance, hair loss, acne and fertility challenges.
Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory condition where tissue similar to the lining of the womb grows outside the uterus, often on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or other pelvic structures. This can lead to:
- Severe pelvic pain, especially during menstruation or intercourse
- Painful periods and heavy bleeding
- Difficulty conceiving
- Fatigue, bloating, and digestive issues
How Chinese Medicine Views PCOS and Endometriosis
In TCM, both PCOS and endometriosis are understood as conditions rooted in imbalances of qi, blood, and the body’s organ systems—particularly the Liver, Kidneys, and Spleen.*
*TCM uses terms like “Liver”, “Spleen” and “Kidneys” in a different way to Western Medicine. These names describe patterns of function and balance within the body, rather than the physical organs themselves. If these terms are mentioned during treatment it does not mean there is a medical problems with your liver, spleen kidneys or other organs. They are part of the diagnostic language used in Chinese medicine.
01.
PCOS: A TCM Perspective
In Chinese medicine we try to look at the whole picture to find out where the imbalance started. Here are the four primary patterns we see with PCOS:
- Metabolic Sluggishness (Phlegm-Dampness): When the body struggles to process fluids and nutrients efficiently, it can lead to an internal “sluggishness.” This heavy, stagnant energy blocks proper circulation and is very commonly seen in women experiencing insulin resistance, weight gain, and/or missed periods.
- Depleted Hormonal Vitality (Kidney Essence Deficiency): In TCM, your fundamental reproductive energy and hormonal health are stored in the “Kidney system.” When this deep energy reserve is depleted—whether from genetics, chronic stress, or burnout—it can lead to irregular cycles, lack of ovulation, and fertility challenges.
- Stress and Hormonal Fluctuation (Liver Qi Stagnation): Daily stress, anxiety, or feeling overwhelmed can block your body’s natural energy flow. This disruption directly impacts your hormones, often contributing to mood swings and irritability.
- Weak Digestion and Low Energy (Spleen Qi Deficiency): If your digestive system isn’t running at 100%, your body can’t absorb nutrients properly or clear out waste efficiently. This weak digestive fire can worsen metabolic issues, leave you feeling constantly fatigued, and make weight management feel like an uphill battle.
02.
Endometriosis: A TCM Perspective
In TCM, endometriosis is often associated with:
- Accumulation of blood in the pelvic area (Blood stasis), leading to pain, inflammation, and the formation of adhesions or cysts. This is a key driver of the condition’s symptoms.
- Stress, emotional tension or repressed feelings (Liver Qi Stagnation), can contribute to the development of endometriosis by disrupting qi flow and promoting inflammation.
- Chronic inflammation and hormonal imbalances (Heat and Dampness) can create a “hot” or “damp” environment in the body, exacerbating pain and discomfort.
How Acupuncture May Help with PCOS
Acupuncture is often used can help regulate hormones and reduce symptoms and address the underlying imbalances that contribute to the condition.
How Acupuncture May Support PCOS
Hormonal Balance
May help regulate menstrual cycles and support ovulation by improving qi and blood flow.
Cycle regulation
May help ovulation and cycle regularity for those with long or irregular cycles or amenorrhoea.
Weight Management
May support metabolism by addressing addressing underlying TCM imbalances in combination with suitable dietary recommendations and exercise.
Stress Reduction
May help improve emotional wellbeing, especially if you are trying to conceive.
Fertility Support
May improve reproductive health by nourishing Kidney essence.
Pain Relief
May help reduce discomfort associated with irregular periods or ovarian cysts.
Evidence:
Some studies suggest that Chinese Medicine may help regulate menstrual cycles and reduce androgen levels in women with PCOS, though more research is needed. Acupuncture is often used alongside dietary and lifestyle changes for best results.
What to Expect During Your PCOS Acupuncture Session
- Personalised Consultation: We’ll discuss your symptoms, menstrual cycle, hormonal balance, and any fertility or metabolic concerns.
- Tailored Acupuncture Treatment: I’ll use fine needles to stimulate specific acupuncture points.
- Chinese Herbal Medicine Support (if appropriate): Customised Chinese herbal formulas may be recommended to support your treatment plan.
- Lifestyle and Dietary Guidance: I may suggest practical guidance on foods complement your treatment, based on TCM dietary principles.
How Acupuncture May Help with Endometriosis
Acupuncture can be a valuable complementary therapy for managing endometriosis symptoms, reducing pain, and improving quality of life. It works by addressing the root imbalances that contribute to inflammation, stagnation, and hormonal fluctuations.
How Acupuncture May Support Endometriosis
Pain Relief
May help reduce pelvic pain, cramping, and discomfort by improving blood flow and reducing stagnation.
Calming the System
May help address the underlying heat and dampness seen in TCM.
Hormonal Balance
May improve blood flow and balance hormones during the cycle.
Fertility Support
May improve blood flow to the uterus and ovaries, supporting implantation and early pregnancy.
Supporting Blood flow
Enhances local circulation in the pelvis.
Stress Reduction
May help manage the emotional and physical stress associated with chronic pain and infertility.
Evidence:
Research suggests that Chinese Medicine may help endometriosis and it can be used alongside medical treatments and other therapies.
What to Expect During Your Endometriosis Acupuncture Session
- Personalised Consultation: We’ll discuss your symptoms, pain levels, menstrual cycle, and any fertility or emotional concerns.
- Tailored Acupuncture Treatment: I’ll use fine needles to stimulate points that are traditionally used to promote blood flow.
- Herbal Support (if appropriate): Customised Chinese herbal medicine formulas may be prescribed to support your treatment plan.
- Lifestyle and Dietary Guidance: I’ll offer advice on foods to incorporate into your diet, based on TCM dietary principles.
Who Is Acupuncture for PCOS & Endometriosis Suitable For?
Acupuncture may be suitable for anyone experiencing symptoms of PCOS or endometriosis, including:
- Women with irregular, painful, or absent periods.
- Those struggling with fertility or preparing for IVF.
- People dealing with chronic pelvic pain, inflammation, or digestive issues.
- Anyone seeking a natural, holistic approach to support their health alongside conventional treatments.
If you’re living with PCOS or endometriosis and would like to explore how acupuncture may help please get in touch to discuss your situation and how I can help.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How does TCM address PCOS and endometriosis?
Chinese medicine may help manage symptoms, improve hormonal balance, and support overall wellbeing, often as part of a broader treatment plan.
How many sessions will I need?
The number of sessions varies depending on your symptoms and response to treatment. Many women see improvements after 6–12 sessions, though maintenance sessions may be recommended for long-term support.
Is acupuncture safe during IVF treatment?
Yes, acupuncture is generally safe during IVF. However, always inform your doctor and practitioner about your treatment plan.
Can acupuncture help with fertility if I have PCOS or endometriosis?
Yes, Chinese medicine can be helpful for both conditions. Since they are often long-standing conditions, some patience is often required.
Are there any side effects from acupuncture for PCOS or endometriosis?
Acupuncture is generally very safe. Some people may experience minor bruising at the needle sites or feel slightly tired after treatment. These effects are usually temporary.