PCOS
What Is PCOS?
Polycystic ovary syndrome, or PCOS, is a hormonal and metabolic condition that can affect ovulation, menstrual cycles, skin, and long-term health.
Despite its name, PCOS does not always involve ovarian cysts. Some people have many small follicles visible on an ultrasound, while others are diagnosed through menstrual patterns and signs of increased androgen activity.
The exact cause is not fully understood. Genetics, insulin resistance, and changes in hormone regulation can all contribute.
Insulin helps the body use glucose for energy. When the body becomes less responsive to insulin, it may produce more of it, which can encourage the ovaries to make additional androgens. Higher androgen levels can interfere with ovulation and contribute to acne or excess hair growth.
PCOS can occur at different body sizes. It is not simply caused by weight gain or something you did wrong.
Recognizing the Symptoms
PCOS may involve:
Irregular, infrequent, or absent periods
Acne or oily skin
Increased facial or body hair
Thinning hair on the scalp
Difficulty becoming pregnant due to irregular ovulation
Insulin resistance or other metabolic concerns
Not everyone experiences the same symptoms. A medical evaluation helps distinguish PCOS from other conditions that can cause similar changes.
How Acupuncture May Help
Acupuncture can be considered as complementary care, with attention to relaxation, physical comfort, and the everyday burden of managing PCOS.
Some studies have explored effects on menstrual frequency, ovulation, and hormone levels, but results have been inconsistent. A large clinical trial did not find improved live birth rates compared with control acupuncture. It should therefore not be presented as a proven way to restore ovulation or treat PCOS-related infertility.
What Care May Focus On
Your appointments can address what is affecting your daily life, including:
Stress associated with unpredictable cycles
Physical tension or discomfort
Relaxation and opportunities for rest
Your experience of ongoing medical or fertility treatment
Dr. Michiko considers your symptoms, medications, medical care, and personal goals when planning sessions. Your response is reviewed over time so care can be adjusted.
Why Medical Follow-Up Matters
PCOS care extends beyond menstrual regularity. Long gaps between periods can affect the uterine lining, and metabolic health may also need monitoring.
Your healthcare provider can discuss options for managing cycles, skin symptoms, blood sugar, and fertility according to your priorities. Acupuncture can accompany that plan while you continue recommended testing and treatment.
Begin With Your Priorities
Whether you are concerned about changing cycles, navigating fertility treatment, or looking for supportive care alongside your diagnosis, your priorities can guide the conversation.
What Is PCOS?
Polycystic ovary syndrome, or PCOS, is a hormonal and metabolic condition that can affect ovulation, menstrual cycles, skin, and long-term health.
Despite its name, PCOS does not always involve ovarian cysts. Some people have many small follicles visible on an ultrasound, while others are diagnosed through menstrual patterns and signs of increased androgen activity.
The exact cause is not fully understood. Genetics, insulin resistance, and changes in hormone regulation can all contribute.
Insulin helps the body use glucose for energy. When the body becomes less responsive to insulin, it may produce more of it, which can encourage the ovaries to make additional androgens. Higher androgen levels can interfere with ovulation and contribute to acne or excess hair growth.
PCOS can occur at different body sizes. It is not simply caused by weight gain or something you did wrong.
Recognizing the Symptoms
PCOS may involve:
Irregular, infrequent, or absent periods
Acne or oily skin
Increased facial or body hair
Thinning hair on the scalp
Difficulty becoming pregnant due to irregular ovulation
Insulin resistance or other metabolic concerns
Not everyone experiences the same symptoms. A medical evaluation helps distinguish PCOS from other conditions that can cause similar changes.
How Acupuncture May Help
Acupuncture can be considered as complementary care, with attention to relaxation, physical comfort, and the everyday burden of managing PCOS.
Some studies have explored effects on menstrual frequency, ovulation, and hormone levels, but results have been inconsistent. A large clinical trial did not find improved live birth rates compared with control acupuncture. It should therefore not be presented as a proven way to restore ovulation or treat PCOS-related infertility.
What Care May Focus On
Your appointments can address what is affecting your daily life, including:
Stress associated with unpredictable cycles
Physical tension or discomfort
Relaxation and opportunities for rest
Your experience of ongoing medical or fertility treatment
Dr. Michiko considers your symptoms, medications, medical care, and personal goals when planning sessions. Your response is reviewed over time so care can be adjusted.
Why Medical Follow-Up Matters
PCOS care extends beyond menstrual regularity. Long gaps between periods can affect the uterine lining, and metabolic health may also need monitoring.
Your healthcare provider can discuss options for managing cycles, skin symptoms, blood sugar, and fertility according to your priorities. Acupuncture can accompany that plan while you continue recommended testing and treatment.
Begin With Your Priorities
Whether you are concerned about changing cycles, navigating fertility treatment, or looking for supportive care alongside your diagnosis, your priorities can guide the conversation.