Polycystic Ovary Syndromeaccording to TCM

What is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome?

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is recognized in modern medicine as a hormonal disorder characterized by irregular or prolonged menstrual periods, excessive levels of androgen (male hormones), and enlarged ovaries containing numerous small cysts. This condition not only affects a woman's menstrual cycle, fertility, and appearance but also can have significant implications for her overall health. The symptoms and severity of PCOS can vary widely among individuals, making it a complex condition to manage.

TCM Perspective on Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a unique lens through which to view and treat Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, emphasizing the body's holistic balance. Unlike the Western focus on hormonal imbalances and cystic ovaries, TCM interprets PCOS as a manifestation of underlying disharmonies within the body's energetic systems.

Key to this perspective is the concept of Qi (vital energy), Blood, Yin, and Yang balance, and the flow of these energies through the body’s meridians and organs. TCM practitioners believe that identifying and correcting these disharmonies through a combination of herbal medicine, acupuncture, and lifestyle adjustments can alleviate PCOS symptoms and restore health.

TCM's Insight into the Causes of PCOS

In the realm of TCM, PCOS is primarily associated with the accumulation of Dampness and Phlegm within the body, disrupting the normal functioning of the reproductive system. Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus, a common pattern seen in PCOS cases, is characterized by symptoms such as delayed or absent menstruation, scanty periods, lower abdominal discomfort, and a feeling of heaviness.

These symptoms reflect the stagnation and obstruction caused by Damp and Phlegm, impeding the free flow of Qi and Blood necessary for reproductive health. Treatments focus on expelling Phlegm and Dampness, regulating Qi, and ensuring the smooth flow of Blood.

Targeted Herbal Remedies for PCOS in TCM

Addressing the complexity of PCOS requires a nuanced approach, with TCM offering specific formulas based on the individual’s unique pattern of disharmony. For the Damp-Phlegm pattern, Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan is a cornerstone formula, designed to dry Dampness, transform Phlegm, and regulate Qi.

It incorporates key herbs like Coco-Grass Rhizomes (Xiang Fu) to ensure Qi flows smoothly, tackling the root causes of PCOS symptoms. This tailored treatment underscores TCM's personalized approach, aiming not only to alleviate symptoms but also to restore balance and prevent recurrence.

Acupoints to Support PCOS Treatment

TCM acupuncture plays a pivotal role in managing PCOS, with specific acupoints selected to address the underlying patterns of imbalance. Shuidao ST-28 is a critical point, located 3 cun below the umbilicus and 2 cun lateral to the anterior midline.

Stimulating this point helps regulate Body Fluids in the Lower Burner, invigorate Qi and Blood in the Lower Burner, and ensure the smooth flow of menstrual Blood. Acupuncture, in conjunction with herbal therapy, offers a powerful synergy to restore the body's natural balance and promote reproductive health, illustrating TCM's holistic approach to treating Polycystic Ovary Syndrome.

Root Causes of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome in TCM

Explore below more details about what might cause Polycystic ovary syndrome according to TCM.

Phlegm

In TCM "Phlegm" as a pattern of disharmony is a complex concept that extends beyond the physical manifestation of mucus. It represents a pathological factor that can disrupt the flow of Qi (vital energy) and blood, leading to various health issues. Phlegm in TCM is seen as a sticky, turbid substance arising from the body's inability to metabolize fluids properly, often due to a dysfunction of the spleen. It's not only associated with respiratory problems like cough and congestion but also with systemic issues. Symptoms can include a feeling of heaviness, mental cloudiness, dizziness, and in some cases, the formation of lumps or masses. Phlegm can even be "invisible," contributing to emotional disturbances like depression or stress. ... see more

Phlegm Patterns That Can Lead to Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus	Polycystic ovary syndrome, Late menstruation, Amenorrhea, Scanty menstruation, Lower abdominal pain, Abdominal heaviness, Feeling of oppression of the chest, Generalized fatigue, Diarrhea, Dull pale complexion, Obesity, Infertility, Ovarian cysts, Ovarian fibroids, Pseudocyesis, Sputum, Feeling of heaviness... see more	Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan | Wei Ling Tang | Wan Dai Tang | Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang

Dampness

"Dampness" in TCM is a concept that describes a pattern of disharmony where the body accumulates excess moisture. Imagine the heavy, sticky feeling you get on a very humid day; that's similar to what dampness feels like internally. It can manifest as a sense of heaviness, bloating, sluggishness, or even a foggy mind. This condition is often thought to arise from environmental factors like living in a damp place, dietary habits that promote moisture in the body, or internal imbalances that hinder the body's ability to process fluids properly. In TCM, dampness can obstruct the normal flow of energy and fluids in the body, leading to various symptoms.... see more

Dampness Patterns That Can Lead to Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus	Polycystic ovary syndrome, Late menstruation, Amenorrhea, Scanty menstruation, Lower abdominal pain, Abdominal heaviness, Feeling of oppression of the chest, Generalized fatigue, Diarrhea, Dull pale complexion, Obesity, Infertility, Ovarian cysts, Ovarian fibroids, Pseudocyesis, Sputum, Feeling of heaviness... see more	Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan | Wei Ling Tang | Wan Dai Tang | Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang

Uterus

In TCM the Uterus (or "Bao Gong") is not just a reproductive organ but a vital system closely linked to Kidney energy, responsible for menstrual health, fertility, and pregnancy. It's also connected to the Heart and Liver, reflecting the importance of emotional and blood health in reproductive wellness. In TCM, the Uterus is seen as a reservoir of Blood and Qi, crucial for reproductive health and general vitality. When the Uterus malfunctions or is imbalanced, it can lead to menstrual irregularities, infertility, miscarriages, or menopausal symptoms. Additionally, there might be symptoms like lower abdominal pain or emotional disturbances such as mood swings, often linked to Liver Qi stagnation. These manifestations highlight the TCM perspective that the health of the Uterus is intertwined with the overall balance of energy and blood in the body, as well as emotional well-being.... see more

Uterus Patterns That Can Lead to Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus	Polycystic ovary syndrome, Late menstruation, Amenorrhea, Scanty menstruation, Lower abdominal pain, Abdominal heaviness, Feeling of oppression of the chest, Generalized fatigue, Diarrhea, Dull pale complexion, Obesity, Infertility, Ovarian cysts, Ovarian fibroids, Pseudocyesis, Sputum, Feeling of heaviness... see more	Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan | Wei Ling Tang | Wan Dai Tang | Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang

TCM Herbal Formulas for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address polycystic ovary syndrome, organized by cause and by formula type.

Top Formula for Phlegm:
Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan

Suitable for Phlegm patterns that may cause polycystic ovary syndrome, such as Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus

Learn more

All Formulas Recommended for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Caused by Phlegm

Formula	Patterns Suitable For
Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan	Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus
Wei Ling Tang	Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus
Wan Dai Tang	Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus
Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang	Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus

Top Formula for Dampness:
Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan

Suitable for Dampness patterns that may cause polycystic ovary syndrome, such as Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus

Learn more

All Formulas Recommended for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Caused by Dampness

Formula	Patterns Suitable For
Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan	Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus
Wei Ling Tang	Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus
Wan Dai Tang	Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus
Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang	Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus

Acupoints for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

See more details below about Shuidao ST-28, an acupoint used to address polycystic ovary syndrome.

Shuidao ST-28

3 cun below the umbilicus, 2 cun lateral to anterior midline.