Ovarian Treatment

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common hormonal disorders among women of reproductive age, affecting both general health and the chances of conceiving. Chinese medicine has recognized the syndrome for centuries and offers a holistic approach that treats the body as a whole rather than addressing an isolated symptom. Combining a Western understanding with a Chinese medicine perspective can help many women better understand the causes of their condition and the treatment options available to them.

Common symptoms of polycystic ovaries

Western medicine identifies several main symptoms in women with PCOS, and the diagnosis is often only discovered once difficulty conceiving arises.

• Irregular menstrual cycles and ovulation
• Insulin resistance
• Excess body hair growth
• Skin issues such as acne
• Difficulty becoming pregnant

Beyond its impact on fertility, the syndrome may also be linked to long-term health issues such as diabetes and heart disease, which is why comprehensive diagnosis and treatment are important.

The kidneys as the energetic root

In traditional Chinese medicine, practitioners often describe polycystic ovary syndrome as an expression of a kidney energy deficiency. Irregular or absent ovulation is seen as a sign of kidney deficiency – an organ considered in Chinese medicine to be the root of the body’s energy and linked to constitutional and genetic aspects as well. Strengthening kidney energy is therefore considered a central step in treating women with the syndrome.

The spleen, excess weight and insulin resistance

Another pattern described in Chinese medicine is spleen energy deficiency, which is linked to the symptom of insulin resistance. According to Chinese theory, the spleen is responsible for the metabolism of vitamins and minerals as well as fluid processing in the body, and when its function weakens it can create “dampness,” which manifests as cysts and a tendency toward weight gain. Roughly a third to half of women with the syndrome struggle with excess weight, and improving spleen function is considered helpful for balancing blood sugar levels and managing weight.

The liver and stagnation of energy and blood

A third pattern linked to the syndrome is liver stagnation, which can manifest as blood stasis or excess heat in the body’s energy channels. Blood stasis in the channels that nourish the hair follicles may result in excessive, unwanted hair growth, while excess heat in the channels may contribute to acne. Identifying the precise pattern in each patient allows treatment to be tailored to her specific needs.

Combined treatment: acupuncture, moxibustion and herbs

The main goal when treating women with PCOS who wish to conceive is to encourage regular ovulation, and treatment therefore focuses on the three central organs – kidneys, spleen and liver. Combined treatment may include acupuncture, electro-acupuncture, moxibustion and Chinese herbal medicine, according to each patient’s individual diagnosis. This personalized approach is considered one of the early examples of preventive, individually tailored medicine.

Book a Treatment

Acupuncture can support women dealing with polycystic ovaries both on the path to pregnancy and with other gynecological issues, as complementary care alongside ongoing medical follow-up. Shai Davids sees patients at clinics in Jerusalem and Ramat Gan and creates a personal treatment plan for each woman, often combined with treatment for menstrual issues. To schedule a consultation, feel free to get in touch at any time.