19/11/2025
Acupuncture may help manage PCOS symptoms by improving ovulation, menstrual cycles, and hormone levels like androgens and LH. It can also boost insulin sensitivity, lower blood glucose and insulin, and reduce PCOS-related anxiety. However, more high-quality research is needed.
How acupuncture may help
- Hormone regulation: It may balance hormones by reducing testosterone and LH.
- Ovulation and menstruation: It can regulate cycles and improve ovulation, supporting fertility.
- Metabolic health: It may enhance insulin sensitivity and lower blood glucose, addressing metabolic issues.
- Mental well-being: Some evidence suggests it reduces anxiety and improves quality of life.
Potential mechanisms
- Influences hormones like β-endorphin, affecting cycles.
- May improve insulin resistance via pathways like AMPK or inhibiting PI3K/AKT/mTOR.
Important considerations
- Evidence quality: More rigorous research is needed due to inconsistent methods.
- Results vary: Some women see improvements in weeks; cycle regulation may take months.
- Complementary therapy: Often used with lifestyle changes and medications, not alone.
