Can acupuncture help with POF

Acupuncture is effective for premature ovarian insufficiency (POI)

Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) is a condition where ovarian function declines before age 40, leading to infertility. It is marked by high FSH and LH levels and low estradiol (E2), causing menstrual disturbances, menopausal symptoms, and increased health risks. POI affects about 1%-5% of women.

ESHRE guidelines for diagnosing POI include age under 40, oligo/amenorrhea for 4 months, and elevated FSH levels. Causes may include genetics, autoimmunity, lifestyle, and stress.

While hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is common in Western medicine, acupuncture is recommended in China for improving ovarian function in POI. Studies show acupuncture lowers FSH, improves hormone levels, and increases pregnancy rates.

One study found acupuncture lowered FSH and LH and increased E2, AMH, and AFC, indicating improved ovarian function. Another study showed reduced anxiety, improved hormone levels, and symptom relief after 12 weeks of acupuncture.

In conclusion, POI affects fertility and health, but acupuncture shows promise in improving ovarian function and symptoms, offering hope for conception.

References

Yang Fu et al Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2022; 2022: 9053930.

Junyoung Jo et al Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2015; 2015: 842180.

Lin-Lin Wang et al Zhongguo Zhen Jiu 2021 Jul 12;41(7):742-6.

Ting-ting Zhao et al Zhen Ci Yan Jiu 2022 Jul 25;47(7):617-24.

Acupuncture provides hope for conceiving in women with premature ovarian failure

Menopause is a natural process, but some women experience premature ovarian failure (POF) before age 40, affecting 1-2% of women under 40. Causes include genetics, poor blood supply, and autoimmune damage.

POF symptoms include irregular periods, low estrogen, and high FSH levels. It can lead to osteoporosis and heart disease. POF diagnosis is often unexpected and distressing due to infertility.

While no proven medication exists to improve conception, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) offers alternatives. Acupuncture can restore qi flow, improve blood supply, and regulate hormone levels, potentially aiding natural conception.

Studies show acupuncture can normalize hormone levels and improve menstrual cycles and symptoms in POF patients, offering a potential alternative to Western treatments like donor eggs.

References

http://www.wfas.org.cn/lunwen/wfas10/200709/1055.html

Kehua Zhou et al Evid Based Complement Alternat Med (2013) 2013: 657234 Published online 2013 Feb 28