Understanding PCOS from a Chinese Medicine Perspective
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is often described in Western medicine as a hormonal condition affecting ovulation, insulin sensitivity, and androgen levels. But in Chinese medicine, PCOS is viewed through an entirely different lens. Rather than focusing only on lab results and hormone panels, Chinese medicine looks at patterns of imbalance within the whole body. This perspective allows treatment to be personalised, addressing not only the menstrual cycle but also digestion, stress, mood, and energy and how all of these factors impact your PCOS.
Pattern Differentiation in Chinese Medicine
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, PCOS doesn’t have a single label. Instead, we assess which pattern or combination of patterns could be driving the unique symptoms of your PCOS. Some of the most common include:
Kidney Yang Deficiency
Symptoms include irregular or absent periods, fatigue, feeling cold, cold abdomen and lower back, low libido, sluggish metabolism.
The Kidneys in TCM are linked to reproductive function and vitality. A deficiency in Kidney yang may mean insufficient warmth and energy to support ovulation and promote a healthy, regular cycle.
Liver Qi Stagnation
Symptoms include PMS, mood swings, breast tenderness, painful periods, frustration or irritability, headaches, increased stress
The Liver governs the smooth flow of Qi and blood. When blocked, cycles may become irregular or painful with increased pre-menstrual tension in the luteal phase.
Phlegm-Damp Accumulation
Symptoms include weight gain, bloating, cyst formation, oily skin, acne, fatigue and head fog, fluid retention.
Dampness and phlegm can obstruct the reproductive system and prevent the free flow of Qi and blood.
Blood Stasis
Symptoms include dark, clotted menstrual blood, sharp period pain, pelvic discomfort.
When the blood does not flow smoothly, it can contribute to painful, irregular, or absent menstruation.
How Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine May Help
Treatment in TCM is always tailored to the individual. For PCOS, this might include:
Acupuncture to support ovulation, reduce stress, improve circulation to the ovaries and uterus, and balance hormones.
Chinese herbal medicine prescribed specifically for the identified pattern(s).
Dietary therapy to reduce dampness, nourish blood, promote healthy digestion or support Kidney yang.
Lifestyle recommendations like gentle movement, stress reduction practices, and sleep support.
The goal is not only to regulate cycles but also to restore overall balance and vitality.
The Holistic Perspective
By considering the whole person, not just lab results, Chinese medicine offers a gentle, holistic approach to PCOS management. It acknowledges that two women with the same Western diagnosis may have completely different Chinese medicine patterns, and therefore need vastly different treatment.
Next Steps
If you’re exploring natural approaches to PCOS, acupuncture and Chinese medicine may offer valuable support alongside conventional care.
As an AHPRA-registered acupuncturist and Chinese medicine practitioner in Mudgeeraba on the Gold Coast, I provide personalised treatment plans designed to support women’s hormone health, fertility, pregnancy, and postpartum recovery.
