Introduction: why TCM for PCOS?
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine disorder in women of reproductive age, with a global prevalence of 8-13% (approximately 115 million women). It is characterized by hyperandrogenism, oligo- or anovulation, and polycystic ovarian morphology.
Conventional treatments have limitations: oral contraceptives suppress symptoms but do not address the cause; ovulation induction has a success rate of only 40-50%; metformin causes gastrointestinal side effects.
In China, TCM interventions – particularly Cang Fu Dao Tan Tang (苍附导痰汤), Er Zhi Wan (二至丸), Wen Jing Tang (温经汤), and acupuncture – have been used for centuries for kidney essence deficiency, phlegm-damp, liver-qi stagnation, and blood stasis.
Modern research reveals that TCM improves insulin resistance, reduces hyperandrogenism, normalizes the LH/FSH ratio, restores ovulation, and modulates the gut microbiota. This article integrates the latest insights and provides practical treatment protocols for TCM practitioners.
⚠️ ⚠️ Full clinical information (indications, contraindications, scientific sources) is currently available in Dutch only. Switch to NL or contact us for assistance.
📍 Acupuncture points in this article
LR3 – Taichong (太冲)
📌 Location:789 On the dorsum of the foot, in the depression proximal to the 1st-2nd metatarsal bones111
📏 Depth: 0.5-1 cun
🧭 Direction: Perpendicular or proximal
📋 Indications: Stress, irritability, headache, hypertension
SP6 – Sanyinjiao (三阴交)
📌 Location:789 3 cun above the medial malleolus, behind the tibia111
📏 Depth: 0.5-1 cun
🧭 Direction: Perpendicular
📋 Indications: Female disorders, insomnia, digestive disorders
ST36 – Zusanli (足三里)
📌 Location:789 4 fingers below the patella, 1 finger lateral to the tibial crest.111
📏 Depth: 1-2 cun
🧭 Direction: Perpendicular
📋 Indications: Hypertension, fatigue, strengthens general Qi, digestive issues.
⚠️ Contraindications: None.
ST40 – Fenglong (丰隆)
📌 Location:789 Op de onderbeen, 8 cun boven de laterale malleolus, één vingerbreedte lateraal van de tibia111
📏 Depth: 1-1.5 cun (20-30 mm)
🧭 Direction: Loodrecht
📋 Indications: Flegma, duizeligheid, hoesten met slijm, obesitas, hoofdvol gevoel
🔒 Full information about the TCM formulas used (including indications, contraindications, and scientific sources) is only available to registered TCM doctors and therapists.
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