Acupuncture for Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)
At Islington Acupuncture, we have extensive experience working with women with PCOS and take time to understand your individual picture.
What is PCOS?
PCOS can lead to irregular or absent periods, elevated testosterone levels, and/or multiple small follicles (immature eggs) on the ovaries. Not all women with PCOS experience all of these features, and the condition presents differently from person to person.
Common symptoms and associated challenges include:
- Irregular or unpredictable menstrual cycles
- Elevated testosterone
- Insulin resistance and weight gain
- Difficulty conceiving
- Acne or excess hair growth
How acupuncture may help with PCOS
Hormone Regulation: Research suggests acupuncture may help regulate the hormonal imbalances common in PCOS, including reducing elevated LH/FSH ratios and lowering androgen levels. More balanced hormones can support more regular ovulation and healthier cycles (Bai T et al. 2024).
Improving Insulin Sensitivity: Insulin resistance is a significant factor in many cases of PCOS and can compound fertility challenges. A 2023 systematic found that acupuncture, alongside standard medical treatment was associated with greater improvements in insulin resistance and BMI than medical treatment alone, with fewer adverse events. (Liu et al., 2023, Heliyon) Improved insulin sensitivity can support more regular hormone production and ovulation.
Supporting Ovulation: One of the primary fertility challenges in PCOS is irregular or absent ovulation. Meta-analyses found acupuncture may increase ovulation rates, particularly when used alongside letrozole (He et al., 2025). And acupuncture combined with medication had better results in improving reproductive hormone levels and pregnancy success rates in women with PCOS than medication alone (Wu et al. 2024).
Reducing Stress & Cortisol: Women with PCOS often experience heightened stress, which can further disrupt hormone balance. Acupuncture has been shown to reduce cortisol and anxiety during fertility treatment, which may help regulate the hormonal cascade involved in ovulation and conception. (Magarelli et al., 2009)
Acupuncture for PCOS and Fertility: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common hormonal conditions affecting women of reproductive age, and a leading cause of fertility challenges. If you have PCOS and are trying to conceive naturally, with medication, or through IVF – acupuncture can offer significant support alongside your existing care.
Supporting IVF Outcomes: For women undergoing IVF, acupuncture can offer additional benefits in the management of the emotional demands of treatment. We recommend starting acupuncture two to three months before an IVF or IUI cycle begins to allow adequate preparation time.
What to expect from treatment
Your first appointment will include a detailed consultation covering your full health and cycle history, any existing diagnoses and medications. We will also carry out a Chinese medicine assessment, which looks at your overall health patterns and constitution.
Treatment plans are tailored to each individual. For PCOS, we generally recommend weekly or fortnightly sessions for two to three months, as this allows time to work with your hormonal cycle and build a meaningful response. We will review progress regularly and adjust treatment accordingly.
We also consider nutrition and lifestyle as part of our approach and can advise on Chinese dietary therapy or work alongside a nutritionist.