Acupuncture in Greeley | Acupuncture and PCOS: What the Studies Say
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) affects an estimated 6–13% of women worldwide, yet it’s often misunderstood or misdiagnosed. PCOS is a complex hormonal condition that can impact menstrual cycles, fertility, metabolism, and emotional well-being. While conventional treatments like birth control or insulin-sensitizing medications can help manage symptoms, many women are seeking more holistic, side-effect-free options. That’s where acupuncture comes in.
At Pins & Needles Acupuncture in Greeley, we support women with PCOS through personalized, research-informed care that addresses both the symptoms and the underlying imbalances.
What Is PCOS?
PCOS is characterized by a combination of symptoms that may include:
Irregular or absent menstrual cycles
Elevated levels of androgens (male hormones), which can cause acne, excess hair growth, and hair thinning
Polycystic ovaries visible on ultrasound (though not always present)
Insulin resistance, which can lead to weight gain and increased risk of type 2 diabetes
Difficulty with ovulation and fertility
It’s important to note that PCOS presents differently in each person. Some women may struggle with infertility, while others experience mood swings, fatigue, or metabolic challenges. Because it affects multiple systems—reproductive, endocrine, metabolic, and emotional—PCOS requires a multifaceted approach to care.
What the Research Reveals
Recent studies show promising results for acupuncture as a complementary therapy for PCOS:
A 2024 umbrella review of 20 meta-analyses (covering over 27,000 patients) found that acupuncture was significantly associated with higher pregnancy and ovulation rates, and lower levels of testosterone, LH/FSH ratios, insulin resistance, and BMI.
Another systematic review published in BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies found a dose-dependent relationship between acupuncture and improved pregnancy outcomes for PCOS patients undergoing IVF.
Mechanistically, acupuncture may regulate the neuroendocrine system, improve insulin sensitivity, and influence hormone receptors—especially when using targeted points like SP6, ST29, CV4, and LI4.
These findings suggest that acupuncture isn’t just a feel-good therapy—it’s a clinically relevant tool for managing PCOS symptoms and improving reproductive outcomes.
Whole-Body Benefits of Acupuncture for PCOS
Beyond fertility, acupuncture supports women with PCOS in a variety of ways:
Regulates menstrual cycles and reduces amenorrhea
Improves mood and energy levels by calming the nervous system
Supports weight management through metabolic regulation
Reduces acne and hair growth by balancing hormones
Enhances sleep and stress resilience, which are often disrupted in PCOS
At Pins & Needles Acupuncture in Greeley, we take a whole-person approach—addressing not just the ovaries, but the liver, spleen, and kidney systems that influence hormonal health in Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Ready to Rebalance Your Hormones?
PCOS doesn’t have to define your health journey. Whether you're trying to regulate your cycle, improve fertility, or simply feel more in sync with your body, acupuncture offers a gentle, effective path forward.
Explore acupuncture in Greeley at Pins and Needles Acupuncture for PCOS support and whole-body wellness.
