TCM for PCOS: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Support

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) affects up to ten percent of women of reproductive age, causing irregular periods, infertility, acne, weight gain, and excess hair growth. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a holistic approach that addresses the underlying patterns contributing to PCOS.

TCM View of PCOS

TCM sees PCOS as a combination of three main factors: Kidney deficiency (the constitutional basis), Phlegm-Dampness accumulation (the metabolic dysfunction), and Blood Stasis (the circulatory component that affects ovarian function).

Key Patterns

Kidney Yang Deficiency with Phlegm-Dampness: Weight gain, irregular or absent periods, cold body type, infertility, and thick tongue coating.

Kidney Yin Deficiency: Infertility, scanty periods, heat signs, dry mouth, and a red tongue with little coating.

Liver Qi Stagnation with Blood Stasis: Irregular cycles, breast tenderness, mood swings, and painful periods with dark clots.

Phlegm-Dampness Obstruction: Obesity, cystic ovaries, sticky vaginal discharge, and digestive issues.

Herbal Treatment

• Shen Qi Wan: Strengthens Kidney Yang
• Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan: A key formula for ovarian cysts and Blood Stasis
• Cang Fu Dao Tan Tang: Resolves Phlegm-Dampness and promotes ovulation
• Xiao Yao San: For stress-related menstrual irregularity
• Liu Wei Di Huang Wan: For Kidney Yin deficiency type
• Wen Jing Tang: Warms the uterus and regulates menstruation

Dietary Therapy

• Emphasize warm, cooked meals to support Spleen function
• Include blood sugar-stabilizing foods: whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats
• Avoid dairy, which generates Phlegm-Dampness
• Limit refined carbohydrates and sugar
• Include anti-inflammatory foods: turmeric, green tea, and omega-3-rich fish
• Consider a low-glycemic diet to manage insulin resistance
• Spearmint tea: Two cups daily may help reduce excess androgens

Lifestyle and Acupressure

• Regular exercise: Improves insulin sensitivity and supports weight management
• Stress management: Chronic stress worsens hormonal imbalances
• Adequate sleep: Seven to eight hours
• Spleen 6, Stomach 36 for metabolic and reproductive support
• Conception Vessel 3 (Zhongji) and 4 (Guanyuan) for uterine health
• Liver 3 for hormonal and emotional regulation

PCOS often responds well to TCM treatment over three to six months. Work with both your gynecologist/endocrinologist and TCM practitioner for comprehensive care.

Start your wellness journey with SEASONS.