Chinese Medicine View and Treatment of PCOS, Endometriosis and other Gynecological Disorders
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder among women of reproductive age, affecting approximately 5-10% of this population. The condition is characterized by a hormonal imbalance, leading to irregular menstrual cycles, infertility, acne, and hirsutism (excessive hair growth in areas typically seen in males). While conventional medicine offers various treatments for PCOS, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) provides an alternative approach that seeks to address the root causes of the condition.
Since its formal description in 1935, modern medicine has learned quite a lot about the syndrome and its manifestations. Unfortunately, there are still a lot of unknowns, including what causes PCOS and its sister syndrome endometriosis. Consequently, there is no way to screen for them and many women may be suffering without evening knowing what their issue is.
TCM approaches diagnosis differently than conventional medicine. Practitioners look for patterns, as determined by symptoms, and treat according to the patient’s unique presentation. These patterns inform treatment in order to correct the underlying imbalance, thus allowing the symptoms to resolve on their own. In this way, TCM treatments are tailored specifically to every person according to their needs, and emphasize utilizing the body’s own systems to restore health.
Chinese Medicine View of PCOS
In TCM, PCOS is referred to as "anovulation syndrome" or "functional infertility" and is generally believed to be caused by a combination of constitutional weakness and emotional stress. According to TCM, PCOS is caused by a stagnation of qi (vital energy) and blood in the lower abdomen, leading to the formation of cysts in the ovaries. The Chinese call this Zheng Jia, and these agglomerations are responsible for gynecological disorders that present as fluid and/or blood accumulation where it shouldn’t be – like PCOS and endometriosis. This stagnation can be caused from a number of factors, including diet, emotional stress, and lifestyle.
Diagnosis and Patterns
In TCM, the diagnosis of PCOS is based on the presenting symptoms and the patient's overall constitution. There are several patterns of disharmony that can manifest as PCOS, including liver qi stagnation, spleen deficiency, kidney deficiency, and blood stasis. A skilled TCM practitioner will perform a thorough assessment to determine the underlying pattern of disharmony and develop a personalized treatment plan.
Most often, a person suffering from PCOS or endometriosis will present with a number of dysfunctional patterns that have persisted over a long period. Treatment would involve correcting these patterns – both their root and manifestations.
Acupuncture for PCOS
Acupuncture is one of the primary modalities used in TCM for the treatment of PCOS. It involves the insertion of fine, sterile needles into specific points along the body's meridians to stimulate the flow of qi and blood. Acupuncture has been shown to regulate the menstrual cycle, reduce testosterone levels, and improve insulin sensitivity in women with PCOS.
In TCM, the selection of acupuncture points is based on the patient's individual pattern of disharmony. Points may be chosen to tonify the spleen and kidney, promote the circulation of qi and blood, and regulate the liver. A typical course of acupuncture treatment for PCOS and endometriosis may involve weekly sessions for several months.
There is nothing in the acupuncture needles, their function is to use the body’s natural systems to correct disharmonies. This gentler means of treatment has minimal side effects, does not involve pharmaceuticals, and will not limit what a patient can do. By gradually coaxing the body into adopting a healthier pattern, the issues that arise from PCOS and endometriosis can be resolved.
Herbal Medicine for PCOS
Herbal medicine is another important aspect of TCM treatment for zheng jia disorders. Chinese herbs are chosen based on the individual's pattern of disharmony and may be used to tonify the spleen and kidney, regulate the liver, and promote the circulation of qi and blood.
Some common herbs used in the treatment of PCOS and endometriosis include peony, licorice, ginger, and cinnamon. These natural ingredients are combined in ways that address the underlying dysfunctions that contribute to disease. Unlike conventional pharmaceuticals, in which those parts that are believed to be helpful are isolated and strengthened while the rest is discarded, these herbs utilize the whole plant and its trace elements. This results in a more comprehensive medicine, which often gentler with fewer side effects. Herbal medicine can be taken in various forms, including teas, capsules, or powders.
Lifestyle Changes and Diet
TCM also emphasizes lifestyle changes and dietary modifications to support the treatment of PCOS. Stress reduction techniques such as meditation, yoga, and tai chi can be helpful in regulating the menstrual cycle and reducing anxiety. Regular exercise, particularly low-impact activities such as walking and swimming, can also improve insulin sensitivity and promote weight loss.
Dietary changes can also play a significant role in the treatment of PCOS. In TCM, the spleen is responsible for the transformation and transportation of food and nutrients. It is also responsible for the formation and – partially – the movement of blood. Foods that are nourishing and easy to digest, such as cooked vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein, are recommended to strengthen the Spleen’s blood-controlling functions. Additionally, foods like kidney beans, blackberries, seaweed, black rice and others promote the kidneys which TCM believes are responsible for reproductive health. Sugary and processed foods, as well as dairy and caffeine, should be limited or avoided.
PCOS is a complex endocrine disorder that can have a significant impact on a woman's health and quality of life. It often goes undiagnosed and untreated, but even when it is conventional treatments are lacking. Ordinary treatments involve the use of birth control to force cycle regulation, metformin to manage insulin resistance, and other drugs to manage symptoms. Unfortunately, there are no known conventional methods to correct PCOS or endometriosis and treatments are focused on management. While TCM may not cure these gynecological issues, it can help resolve dysfunctional patterns without the need for long-term drugs.
