By: Rebecca Rice, Licensed Acupuncturist in Traditional Chinese Medicine
In my practice I have worked with a number of patients who have this diagnosis and are trying to conceive. I chose to write about this topic because it’s a very common condition; and one which can be positively affected by Chinese medicine.
The prevalence of PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome) is estimated at about 5%-10% of women who are seeking treatments for infertility. This may be a small representation of the estimated 20% of the population actually effected by the disease.
In Chinese medical theory PCOS is marked by a picture of “dampness.” This occurs when fluids in the body are ineffectively synthesized and accumulate to form cysts. As explained in western medicine, there is also a hyper-secretion of insulin and testosterone. This gives rise to abnormal follicular development also characterized by anovulatory cycles.
Acupuncture and Chinese herbs are beneficial to those with PCOS in the following ways.
1. Acupuncture and Chinese herbs can regulate the cycle.
2. Lifestyle changes based on concepts in Chinese medicine help manage weight and promote healthy eating habits. This is so important because 30% – 50% of obese women with PCOS develop diabetes.
3. Acupuncture and herbs are known clinically to improve egg quality.
In Chinese medicine we focus much of our treatment protocol on the lifestyle changes patient make. For PCOS, as mentioned above, diet is very important. Common foods to avoid are those that promote dampness; these are dairy (especially cheese), refined sugar, excessive sweets, and greasy foods. These will essentially promote weight gain and support the increase of excess insulin and testosterone in the body.
A new study out of the University of Rochester shows that meditation and the opportunity to share emotions in a non judgmental way helps decrease physician stress while enhancing an experience of connectedness between physician and patient. The study, recently published in 
