2026 Journal of Ethnopharmacology
Zhichi Suanzaoren Decoction, a traditional Chinese medicine, alleviates insomnia and anxiety by restoring hippocampal astrocyte cilia through Foxj1 upregulation.
Acupuncture for Women's Health
For thousands of years Chinese medicine has cared about the physical and emotional health symptoms of women throughout all stages of their lives.
Women can experience a wide range of symptoms related to their menstruation including irregular cycles, period pain and endometriosis, pre-menstrual tension and menopausal syndrome which can greatly affect their quality of life each month.
Any unusually late periods or absence of menstruation (amenorrhoea) should be investigated for possible pregnancy or other medical causes such as PCOS.
What is our clinical experience?
Based on feedback collected from over 858 initial appointments for Irregular Menstruation & Period Pain, 95% of our surveyed patients reported improved quality of life after their first 6 appointments. See our detailed benchmarking statistics.
InitialConsults
858
AverageAppointments
6
ImprovedQuality of Life
95%
Refer Family &Friends
96%
Who have we treated with this condition?
The age groups and genders we see most frequently with this condition. Note: this chart only represents the people who seek treatment at Ping Ming Health clinics for this condition.
- Female (100%)
- Male (0%)
| Age | Female % | Male % |
|---|---|---|
| 11 | 0.1 | 0 |
| 13 | 0.1 | 0 |
| 14 | 0.3 | 0 |
| 15 | 0.2 | 0 |
| 16 | 0.3 | 0 |
| 17 | 0.5 | 0 |
| 18 | 0.5 | 0 |
| 19 | 0.4 | 0 |
| 20 | 0.5 | 0 |
| 21 | 0.9 | 0 |
| 22 | 0.4 | 0 |
| 23 | 1.4 | 0 |
| 24 | 1.3 | 0 |
| 25 | 2.3 | 0 |
| 26 | 1.9 | 0 |
| 27 | 2 | 0 |
| 28 | 1.5 | 0 |
| 29 | 2 | 0 |
| 30 | 3.11 | 0 |
| 31 | 2.91 | 0 |
| 32 | 2.3 | 0 |
| 33 | 3.81 | 0 |
| 34 | 5.11 | 0 |
| 35 | 4.81 | 0 |
| 36 | 3.41 | 0 |
| 37 | 3.51 | 0 |
| 38 | 4.81 | 0 |
| 39 | 4.41 | 0 |
| 40 | 4.71 | 0 |
| 41 | 5.01 | 0 |
| 42 | 4.01 | 0 |
| 43 | 4.21 | 0 |
| 44 | 3.71 | 0 |
| 45 | 4.11 | 0 |
| 46 | 1.9 | 0 |
| 47 | 2.81 | 0 |
| 48 | 1.6 | 0 |
| 49 | 1.4 | 0 |
| 50 | 2.1 | 0 |
| 51 | 1.2 | 0 |
| 52 | 1.8 | 0 |
| 53 | 0.8 | 0 |
| 54 | 1.3 | 0 |
| 55 | 0.9 | 0 |
| 56 | 0.9 | 0 |
| 57 | 0.8 | 0 |
| 58 | 0.1 | 0 |
| 59 | 0.6 | 0 |
| 60 | 0.2 | 0 |
| 61 | 0.3 | 0 |
| 63 | 0.1 | 0 |
| 66 | 0.2 | 0 |
| 68 | 0.1 | 0 |
How many sessions of treatment?
The average number of appointments that patients attend for this condition. Some conditions respond quickly while others may require ongoing treatment.
Which types of treatments?
The types of treatments that are most frequently provided for this condition. Some treatments may be used in combination at the same time.
What does the research say?
The following insights are obtained from systematic reviews and analysis of clinical trials investigating the efficacy of Chinese medicine and acupuncture for women's health.
2026 Frontiers in Endocrinology
Acupuncture does not notably enhance the number of oocytes retrieved in patients with poor ovarian response, but it influences embryo cleavage rates and basal FSH levels.
2026 Frontiers in Medicine
Use of Tiao-Jing-Cu-Yun Acupuncture, in conjunction with standard hormonal therapy, boosts endometrial receptivity, thereby escalating clinical pregnancy success rate when transferring frozen-thawed embryos.
2026 Endocrine, Metabolic & Immune Disorders - Drug Targets
Acupuncture, combined with certain medications, improves hormone levels and enhances success rates of pregnancy in patients suffering from polycystic ovary syndrome infertility.
2026 Medicine
Transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation (TEAS) shows promise as a more effective acupuncture type for improving pregnancy outcomes in patients with poor ovarian response.
2026 Journal of Ovarian Research
Cangfu Daotan Decoction, a traditional Chinese herbal formula, improves fertility in individuals with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome when combined with conventional treatments.
2026 Frontiers in Endocrinology
Acupuncture-related therapies may improve insulin resistance, reproductive endocrine outcomes, and ovarian morphology in women with polycystic ovary syndrome.
2026 Frontiers in Medicine
Acupuncture as a supplementary treatment during embryo transfer appears to enhance pregnancy outcomes, endometrial receptivity, and psychological well-being for patients struggling with recurrent implantation failure.
2026 Expert Reviews in Molecular Medicine
Acupuncture increases the high-quality embryo rate, live birth rate, and clinical pregnancy rate while reducing the duration and dose of gonadotropin in PCOS patients undergoing in-vitro fertilisation.
2026 Frontiers in Endocrinology
Acupuncture appears to improve clinical outcomes in women with polycystic ovary syndrome undergoing fertility treatments, such as in-vitro fertilization and intracytoplasmic sperm injection.
2026 Frontiers in Endocrinology
Acupuncture is found to considerably improve reproductive outcomes in women with diminished ovarian reserve undergoing fertility treatments.
2026 Journal of Integrative Medicine
Acupuncture has shown to be an effective complementary therapy in improving embryo quality during in vitro fertilization, especially when used in personalized treatment regimens.
2026 Frontiers in Endocrinology
Acupuncture, when used alongside assisted reproductive technology, may enhance clinical pregnancy and implantation rates.
2026 Frontiers in Endocrinology
Oral Chinese herbal formulas have shown potential for improving hormone levels in patients with premature ovarian insufficiency, but their safety and overall efficacy remains unclear.
2025 Frontiers in Pharmacology
Traditional Chinese medicine, specifically Jiawei Suanzaoren Tang, demonstrates a significant therapeutic effect on people with perimenopausal insomnia characterized by yin deficiency and fire excess.
2025 African Journal of Reproductive Health
Acupuncture significantly enhances the rate and quality of embryos in patients with poor ovarian response undergoing controlled ovarian stimulation.
2025 The Tohoku Journal of Experimental Medicine
Auricular acupressure may reduce negative psychological indications such as depression and anxiety in women undergoing the controlled ovarian hyperstimulation phase of in vitro fertilization.
2025 Acupuncture in Medicine
High expectancy of acupuncture is linked to a shorter time to ovulation and more chances of ovulation in infertile women with polycystic ovary syndrome.
2025 Complementary Therapies in Medicine
Acupuncture treatment can significantly improve ovulation and pregnancy rates and regulate endometrial receptivity in infertile patients with polycystic ovary syndrome.
2025 Frontiers in Endocrinology
Acupoint application therapy notably reduces peri-menstrual pain and improves In-vitro fertilization results in patients with ovarian endometriosis by normalizing ovarian cell steroid metabolism.
2025 Menopause
Yangyin Shugan capsules can considerably enhance ovarian reserve function and emotional health in women suffering from premature ovarian insufficiency.
2025 Chinese Journal of Integrative Medicine
Electroacupuncture significantly improved pregnancy outcomes in women with polycystic ovary syndrome via enhancing mitochondrial function of granulosa cells.
2025 Journal of Integrative and Complementary Medicine
Combining Gegen-Heisu decoction with estrogen-progestin therapy effectively enhances endometrial receptivity, representing a promising additional treatment for thin endometrium-related infertility.
2025 Medicine
Laparoscopic surgery integrated with traditional Chinese medicine can potentially reduce oxidative stress in patients with endometriosis-induced infertility.
2025 Journal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics
Acupuncture-related therapies might improve pregnancy rates in women undergoing in vitro fertilization, specifically when using warm acupuncture, acupuncture combined with moxibustion or acupuncture alone prior to egg collection.
2025 International Journal of Nursing Studies
Acupuncture as a complementary therapy to IVF may increase pregnancy rates while also reducing pain and anxiety but may possibly raise early miscarriage rates.
2025 BMJ Open
The use of dilatational waves, low-frequency currents and 30-minute session durations can improve clinical pregnancy rates for in vitro fertilisation and embryo transfer patients.
2025 Frontiers in Medicine
Acupuncture combined with other treatments may improve pregnancy and ovulation rates in infertile women, despite current predominantly low-quality evidence.
2025 Frontiers in Endocrinology
Acupuncture appears to significantly impact ovulation and pregnancy rates and positively alter hormone levels in women diagnosed with luteinized unruptured follicle syndrome.
2025 Frontiers in Endocrinology
Acupuncture, when tailored in timing, duration, and frequency, significantly improves pregnancy and birth rates in Assisted Reproductive Technology.
2025 Frontiers in Reproductive Health
Acupuncture shows enhanced clinical pregnancy rates during embryo transfer compared to no intervention, but the results are similar when compared to sham acupuncture.
2025 Frontiers in Pharmacology
Combining Shugan Sanjie Decoction with either Mifepristone or Leuprolide acetate appears to be a compelling treatment option for uterine fibroids, improving clinical effectiveness and hormone regulation.
2025 Phytomedicine
Combining Chinese herbal medicines with high-intensity focused ultrasound improves the clinical effectiveness in treating uterine fibroids.
2025 Complementary Medicine Research
Acupoint hot compress significantly improves postpartum depressive symptoms, particularly beneficial to high-risk patients with lower education levels, abnormal pregnancy appetite or sleep, and severe postpartum contractions.
2025 Frontiers in Psychiatry
Xiaoyao formula, when combined with Western therapy, significantly improves response and recovery rates for postpartum depression in women.
2025 Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment
Exercise combined with psychotherapy, acupuncture, and exercise alone can effectively alleviate symptoms of postpartum depression and anxiety.
2024 Journal of Zhejiang University (Medical Sciences)
The Jianpi Antai formula can safely enhance embryo implantation, decrease the embryo miscarriage rate, and increase the live birth rate in infertile women undergoing in-vitro fertilization.
2024 Journal of Ovarian Research
Shen Que moxibustion treatment can improve reproductive outcomes in women with unexpected poor ovarian response who meet specific criteria.
2024 Phytomedicine
The administration of Zishen Yutai Pill in women undergoing frozen embryo transfer may help increase live birth rates, particularly in women with a miscarriage history or of advanced age.
2024 Medicine
Combined traditional Chinese medicine therapies show significantly better efficacy in treating infertility linked with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome than individual techniques or western medicines.
2024 Medicine
Acupuncture and moxibustion therapies, focusing on specific acupoints in the abdomen and lower back, provide a promising treatment approach for diminished ovarian reserve and premature ovarian failure.
2024 Frontiers in Psychiatry
Acupuncture-related therapies are more effective than hormone therapy in relieving anxiety and depression symptoms in women with decreased ovarian function.
2024 Frontiers in Oncology
Acupuncture, in conjunction with Chinese herbs, enhances the treatment of uterine fibroids over the use of Chinese herbs alone.
2024 Journal of Multidisciplinary Healthcare
The application of traditional Chinese medicine nursing plans improves early gastrointestinal function recovery and alleviates negative emotions in uterine fibroid patients post-high-intensity focused ultrasound treatment.
2024 Health Care for Women International
Traditional medicines, including Ayurveda, Unani, Siddha, Homeopathy, Yoga, Cupping Therapy, and Acupuncture, show potential in managing uterine fibroids effectively without significant side effects.
2024 Frontiers in Psychiatry
Electroacupuncture appears to be safe and improves overall response rates but is not superior to placebo in reducing depression scores in postpartum depression patients.
2024 Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment
Acupuncture, psychotherapy, and antidepressants exhibited similar effectiveness in managing postpartum depression, with the combination of acupuncture and psychotherapy offering safety advantages.
2024 Heliyon
Increased omega-3 intake significantly improves women's chances of pregnancy and fertilization rates.
2024 Journal of Ethnopharmacology
Guizhi Fuling Wan, a traditional Chinese herbal formula, can inhibit endometriosis growth and enhance the effects of western medicines used to treat the condition.
2023 BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies
The combination of Guizhi Fuling Capsule with low-dose mifepristone is more effective and safe in the treatment of uterine fibroids.
2023 Frontiers in Medicine
Acupuncture proves to be a safe and effective method to treat Uterine Fibroids, reducing their volume and improving symptoms, without affecting estrogen levels.
2023 Complementary Therapies in Medicine
Changes in gut microbiome associated with a low-fat, vegan diet and cooked soybeans may reduce the frequency and severity of postmenopausal hot flashes.
2023 Journal of Ethnopharmacology
Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan significantly reduced menstrual pain in primary dysmenorrhea patients with heat-burning blood-stasis syndrome, without notable adverse effects.
2023 Frontiers in Public Health
Acupuncture can improve both perimenopausal depression and insomnia with short-medium term effects while being a safe treatment.
2023 Life
Monounsaturated fats, omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, and a suitable eicosapentaenoic acid to arachidonic acid ratio can be used in diet therapy to improve quality of life by reducing pain and inflammation.
2023 Chinese Journal of Integrative Medicine
Acupuncture may have a positive impact on clinical pregnancy rate and live birth rate in women undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF), although the results are limited by the heterogeneity of the current evidence.
2022 Journal of Ethnopharmacology
The herbal formula Guizhi Fuling Wan safely reduces uterine fibroid-related symptoms and fibroid volume at both low and conventional doses.
2022 Frontiers in Public Health
The existing studies offer fairly limited and low-quality evidence about the effectiveness of acupuncture for postpartum depression treatment.
2022 Frontiers in Neuroendocrinology
Paroxetine, when combined with traditional Chinese medicine prescriptions, enhances the clinical efficacy in treating postpartum depression.
2022 Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
Traditional Chinese medicinal practices like acupuncture, moxibustion, and herbal remedies show therapeutic effects on infertility caused by endometrial factors.
2022 Taiwanese Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology
Combining traditional Chinese medicine Guizhi Fuling Wan with western hormonal therapies can potentially reduce their individual effectiveness in treating endometriosis.
2022 Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology
Aromatherapy, specifically lavender, appears to be an effective, affordable, and holistic approach to reducing the length of labour in expectant women.
2022 Frontiers in Medicine
Endometriosis, a prevalent gynecological disease, may arise due to changes in the female genital system's development during a crucial fetal life window.
2022 Explore: The Journal of Science & Healing
Inhalation and massage therapy with lavender essential oil significantly mitigates perceived labour pain in women.
2022 Babali Nursing Research
Oxytocin massage using lavender aromatherapy oil can significantly boost breast milk production in postpartum mothers.
2022 Current Neuropharmacology
Acupuncture could help manage different types of depression by increasing neuroplasticity, decreasing brain inflammation, and reducing side effects of conventional antidepressant treatment.
2022 Frontiers in Pharmacology
Si Wu Tang has improved menstrual symptoms by increasing estradiol content and antioxidative effects as a result of its herbs' synergistic relationships.
2022 Combinatorial Chemistry & High Throughput Screening
The Chinese medicine formulas Zuo Gui Wan and You Gui Wan have the potential to treat premature ovarian failure through different pharmacological pathways.
2022 Frontiers in Pharmacology
The majority of reproductive age women with endometriosis in Taiwan use traditional Chinese medicine, specifically Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan, to relieve related symptoms.
2022 Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan can lessen the expression of certain proteins, which may be key to its ability to impede abnormal tissue invasion and metastasis in adenomyosis.
2022 Frontiers in Endocrinology
PCOS patients suggests that combining acupuncture with metformin might enhance pregnancy and ovulation rates, as well as improve insulin resistance.
2022 Journal of Integrative Medicine
Acupuncture, when used in conjunction with medicine or alone, appears to improve certain PCOS outcomes such as ovulation rate and recovery of menstrual cycle.
2022 Reproductive BioMedicine Online
The potential of acupuncture as a non-pharmacological intervention to alleviate IVF-related state anxiety.
2022 Medicine
High prevalence of insomnia, anxiety, and depression among perimenopausal women, emphasizing the importance of exploring acupuncture as a potential green therapy for effectively addressing these interconnected issues.
2022 Frontiers in Public Health
The study found that acupuncture as an adjuvant therapy for frozen-thawed embryo transfer (FET) in infertile women had positive effects on pregnancy outcomes.
2022 Journal of Ethnopharmacology
Chinese herbal medicine has shown effectiveness in treating amenorrhea caused by antipsychotic drugs, with an overall treatment effectiveness rate of 0.91, but the duration of treatment is relatively long, and further research is required to explore its application in this context.
2022 Acupuncture & Electro-Therapeutics Research
Acupuncture shows promising potential in providing symptom relief for women with adenomyosis and may be considered as an alternative treatment to surgery and pharmacological medicine, based on a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.
2022 International Journal of Gynecology & Obstetrics
Numerous complementary treatments have been used to alleviate the symptoms of endometriosis, but only acupuncture has demonstrated a significant improvement in outcomes.
2022 Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
Among patients with PCOS, the combined use of acupuncture and moxibustion as a complementary therapy has additional efficacy regarding increased pregnancy and ovulation rates and reduced miscarriage rate.
2021 Trials
Gynoclear™, a formulation of six herbs, could potentially reduce the severity and duration of pain and other symptoms associated with endometriosis.
2021 The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine
A combined treatment of soy and hop extract is a safe and effective alternative to traditional hormone replacement therapy for improving postmenopausal symptoms.
2021 American Journal of Reproductive Immunology
Various types of genital mycoplasma infections are significantly linked to female infertility.
2021 European Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Reproductive Biology
Administering a broad-spectrum antibiotic with or without gonadotropin releasing hormone agonist reduced uterine infection and decreased tissue inflammation, cell proliferation, and angiogenesis in women with endometriosis.
2021 American Journal of Reproductive Immunology
Chlamydia trachomatis infection, particularly when causing fallopian tube obstruction, may decrease the risk of developing endometriosis in women.
2021 Complementary Therapies in Medicine
Lavandula angustifolia essential oil inhalation seemed to enhance overall sleep patterns, quality, and efficiency in postmenopausal women with insomnia.
2021 European Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Reproductive Biology
Phytoestrogens, used in various forms, have shown improvement in urogenital menopause symptoms and improved women's sexual function, promoting overall quality of life.
2021 Disease and Diagnosis
Lavender aromatherapy, whether administered through massage or inhalation, appears effective in reducing active phase labor pain.
2021 Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan treats adenomyosis by intervening in local estrogen signalling pathways and affecting estrogen resistance via myometrium signalling pathways.
2021 Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
A total of 18 publications were included, all indicating improved PCOS symptoms with Chinese medicine compared to control groups.
2021 Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews
The addition of CHM to clomiphene may improve pregnancy rates.
2021 Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
Acupuncture improves perimenopausal sleep quality and symptoms, potentially a safe alternative or adjunct to hypnotic drugs, requiring further research validation.
2021 Acupuncture in Medicine
Acupuncture's potential in reducing menopausal hot flush frequency compared to sham acupuncture, and its similarity in impacting hormone levels to hormone therapy.
2021 Nutrients
Caffeine consumption does not seem to be associated with an increased risk of endometriosis overall, higher caffeine intake may be linked to an elevated risk, and more research is required to understand this potential dose-dependent relationship and account for unidentified biases.
2021 Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
Acupuncture alone or traditional Chinese medicines (taken orally) in combination with western medicine significantly increased the pregnancy rate of PCOS patients and CAM was more effective than western medicine alone for improving hormone levels.
2021 World Journal of Acupuncture-Moxibustion
Acupuncture treatment for postpartum depression is effective and can improve Hamilton Depression (HAMD) Scale, Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) and serum estradiol scores.
2021 Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
Acupuncture is an effective approach for hyperemesis gravidarum and has a great potential to mitigate ketonuria, ease nausea and vomiting, increase food intake, and shorten the hospital stay.
2021 Frontiers in Medicine
Adding acupuncture to conventional therapy may decrease the subsequent endometriosis risk in female rheumatoid arthritis patients.
2021 Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
Acupuncture could improve body mass index, waist-to-hip ratio as well as insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) in patients with PCOS.
2021 Frontiers in Psychiatry
Acupuncture alone or combined with standard care was associated with significant improvements in perimenopausal depression and reductions of other menopausal symptoms.
2021 Reproductive BioMedicine & Society Online
Women receiving IVF perceived that acupuncture or sham acupuncture gave them a psychological advantage through increased relaxation, reduced psychological stress, and enhanced well-being and self-efficacy.
2021 Medicine
Acupuncture can effectively improve the post voided residual urine, maximal cystometric capacity, and bladder capacity for first voiding desire values of patients with urinary retention after hysterectomy.
2021 European Journal of Integrative Medicine
Acupuncture may have a positive effect on anxiety relief during IVF treatment, while its effect on depression relief is inconclusive.
2021 Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
Acupuncture therapy on patients with recurrent implantation failure can improve the pregnancy outcome of patients. It is a relatively effective treatment with satisfactory safety and suitable for clinical application.
2021 Frontiers in Public Health
Based on the current evidence, acupuncture appears to be beneficial to increase the clinical pregnancy rate in women undergoing in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer.
2020 Ethiopian Journal of Health Sciences
Aromatherapy, specifically with lavender essential oil, can effectively alleviate maternal anxiety and labor pain.
2020 Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews
The effectiveness of galactagogues in enhancing breast milk production has limited evidence.
2020 BioMed Research International
Endometriosis and Adenomyosis can have impact on miscarriage risk in pregnancy.
2020 International Urogynecology Journal
Antenatal perineal massage reduces severe perineal trauma and postpartum complications.
2020 Maturitas
Siwutang (including its derived formulas) appears to be superior to conventional Western medicine for pain relief and in relation to response rate.
2020 Explore: The Journal of Science & Healing
Modified Tao-Hong Siwu Tang (MTST) appears more effective than non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and a combination of Tao-Hong Siwu Tang with oral contraceptives (OCs) offers benefits over OCs alone for treating primary dysmenorrhea.
2020 Complementary Therapies in Medicine
Acupuncture enhances Luteinized Unruptured Follicle Syndrome (LUFS) ovulation, hormone levels, artery characteristics.
2020 Complementary Therapies in Medicine
In a meta-analysis of 14 trials with 1030 women, acupoint stimulation and Chinese Herbal Medicine were effective in improving menstrual cycles, perimenopausal symptoms, and sex hormone levels in comparison to Hormone Replacement Therapy.
2020 Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews
Gua sha therapy may be more effective than hot packs with massage for reducing breast pain.
2020 Frontiers in Pharmacology
Herbal medicines were shown to normalize female hormones, diminish male hormones, recover the estrous cycle, ameliorate insulin resistance, and improve lipid metabolism in PCOS.
2020 BJOG: An International Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology
Acupuncture appeared to be beneficial for treatment and prophylaxis of recurrent urinary tract infections.
2020 Nature and Science of Sleep
Acupuncture was shown to significantly improve the sleep quality in pregnant women, possibly through increasing melatonin secretion.
2020 Deutsches Arzteblatt International
Acupuncture may be considered in patients with persistent, idiopathic vulvar pruritus.
2020 European Journal of Integrative Medicine
Compared with western medicine, acupuncture significantly increased the pregnancy and ovulation rates, as well as reducing the rate of miscarriages among Chinese women with infertility.
2020 Medicine
Acupuncture could promote the recovery of menstrual cycles as well as downregulate the levels of LH and testosterone in patients with PCOS.
2020 Journal of Acupuncture and Tuina Science
The present study indicated that acupuncture had an advantage over hormone replacement therapy in reducing serum FSH level and increasing serum E2 level in women with premature ovarian insufficiency.
2020 Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
The current evidence suggests that acupuncture and moxibustion is more effective than ibuprofen or Fenbid in the treatment of primary dysmenorrhoea.
2019 Medicine
Traditional Chinese medicine, particularly Jia Wei Xiao Yao San, Yi Mu Cao and Si Wu Tang, are prevalently utilised treatments for Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) by Taiwanese women.
2019 Biomedicines
Guizhi Fuling Wan, a traditional herbal formula, can improve peripheral blood flow in menopausal hot flush sufferers, despite not changing the frequency or severity of the flushes.
2019 Women and Birth
Aromatherapy significantly reduces labor pain and duration without impacting emergency caesarean section, membrane rupture, and the onset of spontaneous labor.
2019 Frontiers in Pharmacology
Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan can potentially reduce and induce apoptosis in uterine leiomyomas cells.
2019 Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica
Acupuncture during IVF treatment can possibly lower anxiety at the time of embryo transfer but seems to have no long-term impact on women's quality of life.
2019 Journal of Integrative Nursing
Acupoint massage enhances acute mastitis treatment.
2019 JBI Database of Systematic Reviews and Implementation Reports
Breast massage eases pain and symptoms in breastfeeding problems.
2019 Journal of Nursing Research
Aromatherapy enhances physio-psychological well-being in postpartum women.
2019 DARU Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences
Range of herbs like Cinnamomum verum, Trigonella foenum-graecum L., and Vitex agnus-castus, which can potentially address various PCOS-related concerns such as menstrual irregularities, obesity, and insulin resistance.
2019 Journal of Evidence-Based Integrative Medicine
CAM interventions, including mind-body practices and hypnosis, offer promise for alleviating menopausal symptoms, while herbal products lack consistent support.
2019 BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies
Acupuncture shows promise in improving endometrial receptivity and fertility outcomes in infertile women, but further high-quality research is needed to establish its effectiveness definitively.
2019 BioMed Research International
Acupuncture could reduce Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HAMD) scores for postpartum depression.
2019 Climacteric
Acupuncture significantly alleviated breast cancer treatment-related menopause symptoms for at least 3 months, but not hot flushes.
2019 Acupuncture in Medicine
The use of acupuncture as a monotherapy significantly improved the rate of pregnancy among the study participants compared with the use of clomiphene citrate alone.
2019 Reproductive BioMedicine Online
Acupuncture may have a significant effect on clinical pregnancy rates, independent of comparator group, when used in women who have had multiple previous IVF cycles, or where there was a low baseline pregnancy rate.
2019 BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies
Our analysis finds a benefit of acupuncture for IVF outcomes in women with a history of unsuccessful IVF attempt, and number of acupuncture treatments is a potential influential factor.
2019 Medicine
Acupuncture and its combined therapy may be effective for treating female infertility, however, the included studies are not robust enough to draw a firm conclusion.
2019 Journal of Gynecology Obstetrics and Human Reproduction
Acupuncture appears to be beneficial to women with poor ovarian reserve or with previous unsuccessful attempts of in vitro fertilization with embryo transfer.
2019 Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
This systematic review shows that the overall effectiveness of acupuncture treatment of premenstrual syndrome is superior to that of sham acupuncture and related medications.
2019 Journal of the Chinese Medical Association
Traditional Chinese acupuncture seems to be effective in improving some symptoms of postpartum depression.
2018 Journal of Clinical Medicine
Aromatherapy (via inhalation, massage, or oral use) appears to be more effective than a placebo for pain reduction in primary dysmenorrhea.
2018 Nursing and Midwifery Studies
Inhalation aromatherapy with Boswellia Carterii essential oil can significantly reduce labor pain intensity in nulliparous women.
2018 Journal of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Cancer Research
Aromatherapy with lavender demonstrated effectiveness in reducing labor pain during childbirth.
2018 Journal of Clinical Medicine
Traditional Chinese Medicine, particularly Jia Wei Xiao Yao San and Xiang Fu, is widely utilized in Taiwan for managing Polycystic ovary syndrome symptoms.
2018 Reproductive Health
Endometriosis, often seen as benign, is linked to infertility and metastatic cancer, and shows different risk factors and treatment responses in Asian and European-American women.
2018 BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies
Chai Hu Shu Gan San (a traditional Chinese Medicine) is a promising in treating depression, especially in post-stroke and postpartum cases.
2018 Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
Berberine's potential similarity to metformin in addressing glycolipid metabolism and insulin sensitivity, and exploring promising combinations involving berberine, metformin, and cyproterone acetate for treating polycystic ovary syndrome with insulin resistance.
2018 Complementary Therapies in Medicine
Combining Gua Sha therapy with Western medicine appears to offer significant improvements in perimenopausal symptom management.
2018 Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
Despite some indications of improved clinical pregnancy rates, the overall effectiveness of acupuncture as a treatment for couples with subfertility undergoing assisted reproduction therapy remains inconclusive and requires further high-quality research.
2018 Medicine
Chinese herbal medicine combined with moxibustion might be beneficial for treating PCOS, and the treatment might improve the therapeutic effects of conventional western medications including clomiphene citrate, oral contraceptives, and/or metformin.
2018 British Journal of Midwifery
Acupuncture in postpartum depression was at least as effective as fluoxetine hydrochloride, supporting the notion that acupuncture may be a safe and effective option.
2018 International Journal of Gynecology & Obstetrics
Acupuncture showed a significant benefit in pain reduction for women with endometriosis as compared with placebo.
2018 Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
There is potential of acupuncture combined with conventional treatment for treating female chronic pelvic pain.
2018 JBRA Assisted Reproduction
Acupuncture performed on the day of embryo transfer has a significant effect on embryo implantation, however, a negative one.
2018 European Journal of Integrative Medicine
Acupuncture treatment is beneficial in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) for improving the clinical pregnancy, implantation, and live birth outcomes.
2018 The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine
Evidence supports the use of acupuncture for menopause symptoms as an adjunctive or stand-alone treatment for reducing vasomotor symptoms and improving health-related quality of life outcomes.
2018 Medicine
Acupuncture might reduce menstrual pain and associated symptoms more effectively compared to no treatment or NSAIDs.
2018 Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews
Acupuncture may reduce overall mood and physical PMS symptoms when compared to sham. Acupressure may reduce the number of women having moderate to severe PMS symptoms when compared to sham acupressure.
2018 Acupuncture in Medicine
Acupuncture appears to be effective for postpartum depression with respect to certain outcomes.
2018 Complementary Therapies in Medicine
Chinese herbal medicine improved depression symptoms and severity compared to antidepressants for postpartum depression.
2017 Maturitas
Long-chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids have various health benefits for postmenopausal women including reducing triglycerides and improving depression and psychotic symptoms.
2017 Archives of Gynecology and Obstetrics
Results support Wenjing decoction (a traditional Chinese medicine) clinical use in treating primary dysmenorrhea.
2017 BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies
Acupoint-stimulation can relieve pain effectively in the treatment of primary dysmenorrhea and offers advantages compared with treatment by NSAIDs.
2017 Complementary Medicine Research
Both the total score and the subgroup analysis strongly indicated that acupuncture can alleviate menopause-related symptoms.
2017 PLOS One
Acupuncture is non-inferior to hormone therapy or other applied relaxation therapies in alleviating the symptoms of menopause for its safety, non-invasive and especially considering the side effect of hormone therapy.
2017 Acupuncture in Medicine
Acupuncture may increase the clinical pregnancy rate and ongoing pregnancy rate and decrease the risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome in women with PCOS undergoing IVF or ICSI.
2017 Medicine
Acupuncture adjuvant to other active medications could affect hormonal levels such as LH, LH/FSH ratio, testosterone, and fasting insulin in women with polycystic ovarian syndrome.
2017 PLOS One
The current literature suggests that acupuncture reduces endometriosis-related pain and serum CA-125 levels, regardless of the control intervention used.
2016 Journal of Cancer Research and Therapeutics
Acupuncture appears to be a potentially effective treatment for reducing hot flashes in women diagnosed with breast cancer.
2016 BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies
Acupoint stimulation shows promise in alleviating nausea and vomiting in pregnancy.
2016 Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews
The review found limited consistent evidence supporting the effectiveness of acupuncture for relieving menstrual pain compared to sham treatments or other interventions.
2016 Complementary Therapies in Medicine
SP6 acupressure's effectiveness for primary dysmenorrhea relief, indicating trained personnel-administered acupressure reduced pain immediately and up to 3 hours post-intervention
2016 European Journal of Integrative Medicine
Acupuncture may have a positive impact on recovering menstrual cycles, reducing BMI, and lowering luteinizing hormone (LH) levels in women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS).
2016 World Journal of Acupuncture-Moxibustion
Acupuncture's acupoint selection for treating PCOS, identifying top acupoints like Sānyīnjiāo (SP 6) and Guānyuán (CV 4). Findings reveal modern acupuncture's alignment with traditional theory, often targeting abdomen and lower limb points, including front-mu, he-sea, matching, and back-shu points.
2016 Revista Latino-Americana de Enfermagem
The study's analysis of 272 articles comparing Traditional Chinese Acupuncture (TCA) and Sham Acupuncture (SA) for managing hot flashes in menopausal breast cancer patients indicates that while 3 studies leaned towards TCA's effectiveness, 2 showed both interventions to be beneficial.
2016 Maturitas
Meta-analysis showed that Danggui Shaoyao San had superior effects compared to analgesics for treating primary dysmenorrhea.
2016 Journal of Pain Research
Acupuncture could be tried as a complement in the treatment of pain in endometriosis as it is an overall safe treatment.
2016 Cancer Nursing
Acupuncture may be used as a complementary therapy for breast cancer survivors experiencing hot flashes and other menopause-related symptoms.
2016 Obstetrics & Gynecology
Acupuncture is associated with a significant reduction in sleep disturbances in women experiencing menopause-related sleep disturbances.
2016 Archives of Gynecology and Obstetrics
Acupuncture improves the clinical pregnancy rate among women undergoing IVF and the IVF outcome results were significantly superior in the acupuncture group when acupuncture was conducted during controlled ovarian hyperstimulation.
2016 Obstetrics & Gynecology
Acupuncture is associated with a significant reduction in sleep disturbances in women experiencing menopause-related sleep disturbances.
2016 Scientific Reports
Acupuncture may be recommended for the treatment of chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome with relatively rare incidence of adverse events.
2016 Neurourology and Urodynamics
Acupuncture has promising efficacy for patients with chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome.
2016 Medicine
Current evidence supports acupuncture as an effective treatment for chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome-induced symptoms, particularly in relieving pain.
2016 BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth
Acupuncture was a feasible intervention and reduced threatened miscarriage symptoms when compared to a touch intervention.
2015 Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
Acupuncture may impact Luteinized Unruptured Follicle Syndrome (LUFS) by lowering FSH, increasing E2, and resuming menstruation.
2015 Complementary Therapies in Medicine
Our review suggests that management of female infertility with Chinese herbal medicine can improve pregnancy rates 2-fold within a 3-6 month period compared with Western medical fertility drug therapy.
2015 Gynecologic and Obstetric Investigation
We found pooled benefit of acupuncture for IVF when performed at follicle phase and 25 min before and after embryo transfer, as well as 30 min after embryo transfer and implantation phase.
2015 Menopause
Acupuncture improves hot flash frequency and severity, menopause-related symptoms, and quality of life (in the vasomotor domain) in women experiencing natural menopause.
2015 The Journal of Sexual Medicine
Acupuncture appeared to reduce vulvar pain and dyspareunia with an increase in overall sexual function for women with vulvodynia.
2015 Journal of Acupuncture and Meridian Studies
Acupressure showed evidence of pain relief while acupuncture improved both the mental and the physical components of quality of life associated with primary dysmenorrhea.
2015 Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews
There is moderate‐quality evidence from individual studies suggesting that acupuncture improved pelvic pain more than usual prenatal care.
2014 BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies
Guizhi Fuling formula shows potential in treating uterine fibroids.
2014 BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies
Acupuncture and herbal medicine show promise in alleviating premenstrual syndrome and premenstrual dysphoric disorder symptoms, with over 50% relief and proven safety.
2014 2014 IEEE Workshop on Electronics, Computer and Applications
Acupuncture shows promise in treating polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
2014 BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies
There are potential benefits of herbal medicine in addressing the complex symptoms of PCOS, supported by both pre-clinical and clinical evidence.
2014 Acupuncture in Medicine
Acupuncture during pregnancy appears to be associated with few adverse events when correctly applied.
2014 Journal of Advanced Nursing
Acupuncture showed both clinically important changes and statistically significant results for management of low back and/or pelvic pain (LBPP) in pregnancy.
2013 Neuropediatrics
Hop extract, particularly its component 8-Prenylnaringenin (8-PN), demonstrates potential in alleviating symptoms common in menopause such as osteoporosis, vasomotoric disturbances, and sexual motivation.
2013 Medical Acupuncture
Acupuncture's efficacy in treating gynecologic and obstetric disorders
2013 Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
Limited evidence supporting the benefit of acupressure in alleviating menstrual pain and reducing symptoms.
2013 Human Reproduction Update
The meta-analysis indicates that while adjuvant acupuncture does not show a pooled benefit for in vitro fertilization (IVF) across all trials, it appears to have a more significant effect in trials with lower baseline pregnancy rates, warranting further investigation and confirmation in additional studies.
2013 Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews
Despite its widespread use during assisted reproductive technology (ART) cycles, acupuncture does not appear to improve live birth or pregnancy rates in couples dealing with subfertility.
2013 Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews
When acupuncture was compared with no treatment, there appeared to be a benefit from acupuncture, but acupuncture appeared to be less effective than hormone therapy.
2013 Medical Acupuncture
There is high-level evidence to support the use of acupuncture for treating major depressive disorder in pregnancy.
2012 Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Research
Blended essential oils, including lavender, sage, and marjoram, show potential in relieving menstrual cramps and reducing pain duration in women with primary dysmenorrhea.
2012 Fertility and Sterility
Acupuncture appears to improve clinical pregnancy rate and live birth rate in women undergoing in vitro fertilization, but the choice of control used in studies may influence the outcomes.
2012 The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine
The meta-analysis suggests that acupuncture does not provide significant benefits in improving the outcomes of in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) treatments.
2012 BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies
Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) therapies have the potential to provide supportive care for women presenting with threatened miscarriage.
2011 Journal of Acupuncture and Meridian Studies
Gui-zhi-fu-ling-wan, a traditional Chinese medicine, can effectively alleviate hot flashes in young patients in a safe manner.
2011 BJOG: An International Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology
Acupuncture shows promise for alleviating PMS symptoms.
2011 Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews
Acupuncture shows potential for reducing dysmenorrhoea scores in endometriosis patients.
2011 BJOG: An International Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology
Acupuncture seems promising for symptom improvement in women with premenstrual syndrome.
2010 Complementary Therapies in Medicine
Study finds acupuncture for PMS holds promise.
2010 BJOG: An International Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology
Acupuncture ineffective for labour pain relief:
2010 Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica
Acupuncture-related therapies may have potential as an intervention for primary dysmenorrhea.
2005 The American Journal of Chinese Medicine
Gui-zhi-fu-ling-wan, a herbal therapy, depicts to be a viable alternative to hormone replacement therapy for treating hot flashes in post-menopausal women experiencing coldness in lower extremities.
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Although well-conducted clinical research can help members of the public to make better-informed decisions about their healthcare, we cannot claim that any particular treatment may be effective for any individual person.
When you consult with our Chinese medicine practitioners, you’ll receive personalised advice and treatment based on your symptoms and Chinese medicine diagnosis.
Research papers
Browse our collection of scientific clinical research on acupuncture for women's health.
It includes recent and reputable papers published by peer-reviewed journals within the last 10 years.
2026, Jan
Zhichi Suanzaoren Decoction alleviates perimenopausal insomnia via restoring astrocytic primary cilia and modulating Wnt/GSK-3β/GR signaling axis
Journal of Ethnopharmacology
ZSD significantly improved sleep and reduced anxiety, increased hippocampal GABA levels, decreased serum stress hormone levels, protected hippocampal neurons, and reduced neuroinflammation through the inhibition of Wnt signaling by promoting Foxj1 expression.
Zhang Z, Liu Y, Zhao B, Fu H, Wang J, Zhang MJ, Zhang Y, Hu L, Zhang X Full Article
2026, Feb 26
Effect of acupuncture for poor ovarian response: a multicenter randomized controlled trial
Frontiers in Endocrinology
Acupuncture did not significantly improve the number of oocytes retrieved in patients with poor ovarian response, but was associated with a higher embryo cleavage rate and lower basal FSH levels, without significant improvements in clinical pregnancy or live birth rates.
Su C, Wang X, Liu X, Yang L, Su T, Wang H, Li Y, Zhao C, Zhang C, Xiang W, Tong G, Chen L, Zhao F, Xu H, Fang Y Full Article
2026, May 21
Tiao-Jing-Cu-Yun Acupuncture combined with estradiol in the treatment of patients with thin endometrium undergoing hormone replacement therapy for frozen embryo transfer: a randomized controlled trial
Frontiers in Medicine
The combination of Tiao-Jing-Cu-Yun Acupuncture with standard hormonal therapy effectively improved endometrial receptivity in patients with thin endometrium, leading to a significantly enhanced clinical pregnancy success rate of frozen-thawed embryo transfer.
Li J, Yang X, Guan Y Full Article
2026, Apr 24
Effectiveness of Acupuncture for Infertility in Patients with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis
Endocrine, Metabolic & Immune Disorders - Drug Targets
Acupuncture as a complementary treatment to clomiphene citrate (CC) and letrozole (LE) was found to improve reproductive hormone levels and enhance pregnancy success rates in PCOS infertility patients, with the highest probability of achieving the best pregnancy outcomes associated with CC plus warm acupuncture (WA) and LE plus manual acupuncture (MA) treatments.
Wu Y, Xiao QW, Wang SD, Xu HF, Fang YG Full Article
2026, Jan 30
Acupuncture in patients with the poor ovarian response on IVF-ET: A systematic review and network meta-analysis
Medicine
TEAS was found to be superior in increasing the number of oocytes and antral follicle count compared to MA, EA, and the control group, while MA was superior in increasing the number of mature oocytes. Overall, acupuncture treatments showed positive effects in improving pregnancy outcomes in patients with POR, with TEAS showing more promising results.
Liu J, Mai T, Zhu F, Ma J, Liu D, Liu Y, Ouyang X, Wu J Full Article
2026, Feb 06
The efficacy and safety of Cangfu Daotan decoction in the treatment of infertility associated with polycystic ovary syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Journal of Ovarian Research
CFDTT combined with conventional pharmacotherapy was found to be superior to conventional pharmacotherapy alone in improving ovulation rate, pregnancy rate, ovarian volume, dominant follicle count, and endometrial thickness. However, due to methodological limitations and high heterogeneity, the overall certainty of the evidence was low to very low.
Xie Q, Wang Y, Tang Y, Xu J, Yang L, Wu J Full Article
2026, Feb 27
Efficacy and safety of acupuncture-related therapies in improving insulin resistance, reproductive endocrine outcomes, and ovarian morphology in polycystic ovary syndrome: a systematic review and network meta-analysis
Frontiers in Endocrinology
Du Z, Yerebake M, Shi A, Zhao S, Li S, Wan Y, Wang J, Yan C Full Article
2026, Apr 14
Efficacy of acupuncture for recurrent implantation failure: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Frontiers in Medicine
Huang Q, Liu XY, Zhu ZM, Hou TS, Long Y, Li SH, Huang QH, Yang HM, Wang JR, Wu QF Full Article
2026, Jan
The Effect of Acupuncture in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Undergoing in vitro Fertilization: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Expert Reviews in Molecular Medicine
Yi L, Zhang H, Tian T, Zhang Y, Lou Y, Li J, Liu C, Ma C, Liu P, Li R, Qiao J, Huang S, Yang R Full Article
2026, May 29
Clinical efficacy of acupuncture for women with PCOS undergoing IVF/ICSI: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Frontiers in Endocrinology
Acupuncture therapy was associated with increased clinical pregnancy rate, live birth rate, number of optimal embryos, E levels, reduced total gonadotropin dose and duration of use, with no increased risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome. Manual acupuncture showed higher pregnancy rates compared to electroacupuncture and GnRH antagonist protocols were more effective when combined with acupuncture.
Guo S, Xia H, Yang W, Lin G, Tang Q, Xu L Full Article
2026, Jun 10
Clinical evidence of acupuncture for infertile women with diminished ovarian reserve undergoing IVF/ICSI: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Frontiers in Endocrinology
Acupuncture significantly increased clinical pregnancy rate by 25%, live birth rate by 22%, embryo implantation rate by 30%, number of oocytes retrieved, number of optimal embryos, and endometrial thickness on the day of hCG trigger in infertile women with DOR undergoing IVF/ICSI.
Xu L, Liang X, Wang W, Zhang R, Lin G, Cao K, Sun P, Fan L Full Article
2026, Jul
Acupuncture to ensure high-quality embryos in women undergoing in vitro fertilization: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Journal of Integrative Medicine
Acupuncture significantly improved high-quality embryo rate, high-quality oocyte rate, and fertilization rate in IVF patients, with the efficacy varying based on patient characteristics and number of acupuncture sessions.
Wang J, Xu J, Chen X, Liu T, Shi D, Li W Full Article
2026, Jul 09
Timing and dose of acupuncture as adjuncts to assisted reproduction: a meta-analysis and model-based network meta-analysis
Frontiers in Endocrinology
Wei J, Wang Y, Zhang K, Shen Z, Li J, Guan H, Wang J Full Article
2026, Aug 05
Oral Chinese herbal formulas for premature ovarian insufficiency: a systematic review, meta-analysis, and exploratory therapeutic-principle subgroup analysis
Frontiers in Endocrinology
Wu Y, Li S, Liu G, Zheng X, Cheng J, Jiang X Full Article
2025, Jan 29
Jiawei Suanzaoren decoction for the treatment of perimenopausal insomnia: clinical observation and experimental study
Frontiers in Pharmacology
Jiawei Suanzaoren Tang showed significant clinical therapeutic effects on perimenopausal yin deficiency and fire excess type insomnia, with improvements in sleep condition and hormone levels. Mechanistically, it may regulate neuroactive ligand receptor interactions to improve sleep and affect hormone levels and receptor expression in the hypothalamus.
Chen LQ, Zhou YC, Ning F, Zhu MJ Full Article
2025, Feb 28
Randomized clinical trial of acupuncture in patients with poor ovarian response
African Journal of Reproductive Health
Yuan R, Zhu X, Liu Y, Wang M, Wang T, Li Z, Wu J Full Article
2025, Jan
The Effect of Auricular Acupressure on Women Psychological Distress during Controlled Ovarian Hyperstimulation for <i>in vitro</i> Fertilization: A Single-Blind, Randomized, and Sham-Controlled Study
The Tohoku Journal of Experimental Medicine
Li Y, Shen W, Mo F, Ma Q, Xing L Full Article
2025, May 19
High acupuncture expectancy is associated with shorter time to ovulation and higher chances of ovulation in infertile patients with PCOS receiving acupuncture: a secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial
Acupuncture in Medicine British Medical Acupuncture Society
Gong Y, Li J, Ma HL, Jiang T, Qin H, Li MB, Wu XK Full Article
2025, Oct
Acupuncture as an alternative treatment for polycystic ovary syndrome: Effects on ovulation rate, pregnancy rate and endometrial receptivity
Complementary Therapies in Medicine
Ding M, Zhu X, Huang Y, Tan Z, Zhu X, Han S, Shen J, Luo R Full Article
2025, Oct 27
Acupoint application improves IVF outcomes and rescues granulosa cell steroid metabolic dysregulation in ovarian endometriosis
Frontiers in Endocrinology
Ai KL, Cao XL, Gao YQ, Cao JX, Sun ZG Full Article
2025, Jul 22
Therapeutic efficacy of Yangyin Shugan capsules against premature ovarian insufficiency: results from a multicenter, placebo-controlled trial
Menopause The North American Menopause Society
Cao X, Song L, Hou J, Mao S, Du Q, Cheng F, Feng D, Zhu J, Chen Q, Li X, Liu J, Ouyang W, Huang X, Wang X Full Article
2025, Aug 20
Electroacupuncture Improves Pregnancy Outcomes of Assisted Reproduction and Mitochondrial Function of Granulosa Cells in Patients with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome of Phlegm-Dampness Syndrome
Chinese Journal of Integrative Medicine
Pang C, Guo D, Wang Q, Wang K, Lian F Full Article
2025, Nov 18
Effects of Gegen-Heisu Decoction on Endometrial Receptivity in Patients with Thin Endometrium-Related Infertility: A Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial
Journal of Integrative and Complementary Medicine
Lin X, Chen H, Zhou X, Pang Y, Li Y, Wang X, Yang Z Full Article
2025, Apr 11
Impact of combining laparoscopy with traditional Chinese medicine on oxidative stress in endometriosis-related infertility: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Medicine
Lin S, Zhou S Full Article
2025, May 09
Effects of acupuncture-related therapies on pregnancy outcomes among women undergoing in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer: a Bayesian network meta-analysis
Journal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics
Bin C, Zhong H, Zhang S, Luo Y, Su J, Li M, Wei S Full Article
2025, Aug
Acupuncture for women undergoing in vitro fertilization: An updated systematic review and meta-analysis with trial sequential analysis
International Journal of Nursing Studies
Fu QW, Zhu SM, Chen J, Liu YQ, Liang CH, Song LJ, Zhuang J, Tan X, Liu LZ, Luo L, Yin HY, Yeung WF, Chen SC, Liu WT, Zhang QX, Tang Y Full Article
2025, Aug
Effects of different electroacupuncture/ transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation parameters on the pregnancy outcomes of in vitro fertilisation-embryo transfer: a systematic review and meta-analysis
BMJ Open
Zhu H, Shang Z, Ji R, Li C, Zhang J, Su Y, Jiang Z, Du J, Li Y, Liu Q, Liu J, Zheng X, Yang J Full Article
2025, Aug 28
The efficacy of acupuncture on endometrial receptivity in infertile women: an overview of systematic review and meta-analysis
Frontiers in Medicine
Fan H, Zhou J, Tang C, Liu H Full Article
2025, Aug 29
Clinical evidence of acupuncture for luteinized unruptured follicle syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Frontiers in Endocrinology
Acupuncture intervention effectively increased ovulation rate and pregnancy rate, improved hormone levels and ovarian artery parameters in women with LUFS, suggesting acupuncture as a promising complementary therapy, although further research with more rigorous designs and larger sample sizes is needed.
Zhang R, Lin G, Wang W Full Article
2025, Sept 05
Different effectiveness of acupuncture treatment schedule on ART pregnancy outcomes: a systematic review and network meta-analysis
Frontiers in Endocrinology
Acupuncture significantly improved clinical pregnancy rate, live birth rate, fertilization rate, and high-quality embryo rate, with longer treatment durations and higher session numbers yielding superior outcomes.
Yang Y, Chen H, Tang H, Kuang H, Gou Y, Zhao H Full Article
2025, Sept 23
Acupuncture as an adjunctive therapy on embryo transfer day: a systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical pregnancy and live birth outcomes
Frontiers in Reproductive Health
Acupuncture demonstrated a positive impact on clinical pregnancy rate in comparison to the blank control group, but not when compared to sham acupuncture. The Delphi Consensus showed no difference in clinical pregnancy rate compared to the Pulus Protocol, while acupuncture did not have a positive impact on live birth rate during embryo transfer.
Wang Y, Ji J, Duan N, Yin Y Full Article
2025, Apr 17
The efficacy and safety of Chinese herbal medicine Shugan Sanjie decoction in the treatment of uterine fibroids: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Frontiers in Pharmacology
The study concluded that SGSJ combined with MFP or LA showed significant improvement in the Clinical Effective Rate (CER), reduction of Uterine Fibroid Volume (UFV), and modulation of sex hormone levels when compared to MFP or LA alone.
Zhang Y, Wei J, Gao C, Feng S, Wang H, Chai J, Zhu Y, Yuan Y, Ren L Full Article
2025, Jul
Efficacy of Chinese herbal medicines combined with high-intensity focused ultrasound for patients with uterine fibroids: A meta-analysis with core herbs exploration
Phytomedicine
The study found that combining CHMs with HIFU resulted in more significant reductions in UF volumes and higher clinical effectiveness rates compared to HIFU therapy alone. Core pattern analysis identified key herbs that may enhance the efficacy of HIFU treatment for UFs.
Huang YT, Wang MC, Liao JA, Chen WC, Chou YT, Cheng WJ Full Article
2025, Jan 21
The Effect of Acupoint Hot Compress on Postpartum Depressive Symptoms: A Secondary Analysis of a Randomized Controlled Trial
Complementary Medicine Research
Acupoint hot compress significantly improved postpartum depressive symptoms (PDS) after vaginal delivery, particularly in high-risk PPD patients with specific characteristics.
Wu Y, Zhu Y, Wang F, Qu F Full Article
2025, Mar 24
Meta-analysis of Xiaoyao formula as an adjuvant therapy for treating postpartum depression
Frontiers in Psychiatry
Adjuvant treatment with XYF led to a significant improvement in the total response rate, clinical recovery rate, and decreased Hamilton Depression Scale scores in postpartum women suffering from depression.
Liu J, Rong A, Wang F Full Article
2025, Dec
Comparative Effectiveness of Non-Pharmacological Interventions for Postpartum Depression and Anxiety: A Network Meta-Analysis
Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment
The study concludes that non-pharmacological interventions, especially exercise combined with psychotherapy, acupuncture, and exercise alone, show promise in improving symptoms of postpartum depression, with exercise combined with psychotherapy being the most effective.
Zhu Y, Yang W, Li N, Yang J, Yang J, Zheng Y, Chen W, Yang Y, Liu Y, Zhao Y Full Article
2024, May 01
Chinese medicine Jianpi Antai formula improves pregnancy outcomes of <italic>in vitro</italic> fertilization-embryo transfer in infertile women
Journal of Zhejiang University (Medical Sciences)
Jianpi Antai formula can safely improve the embryo implantation rate in infertile women undergoing IVF-ET, reduce the embryo miscarriage rate, increase the live birth rate, and improve the clinical outcomes.
LIU Q, LIN F, MIAO C, LI C, WEN G, ZHANG S, ZHANG Q Full Article
2024, Aug 29
Efficacy and safety of Shen Que (RN8) moxibustion on reproductive outcomes in unexpected poor ovarian responders: a randomized controlled trial
Journal of Ovarian Research
Song JY, Sun ZG, Ma YX Full Article
2024, Dec
Effects of the Zishen Yutai Pill on live births compared with placebo among infertile women with frozen-thawed embryo transfer cycle: A multicentre double-blind randomized controlled trial
Phytomedicine
Chen X, Shi Y, Li H, Gong F, Yao C, Bai H, Fan Y, Shi D, Qu Q, Diao F, Zhu Y, Yang D Full Article
2024, Jul 12
Combined traditional Chinese medicine therapy for the treatment of infertility with polycystic ovary syndrome: A network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Medicine
Deng YP, Zhou YL, Wei TT, He GS, Zhu ZX, Zhang SN, Liu MJ, Xue JJ, Zhang WX, Yang XG Full Article
2024, Nov 01
The correlation of acupuncture and moxibustion points for the treatment of diminished ovarian reserve and premature ovarian failure: A systematic review based on complex network
Medicine
Yang Z, Zhu Z, Yang X, Zhang W, Chen P, Jin L, Luo Q, Meng Y, Liu J Full Article
2024, Dec 02
Acupuncture and related therapies for anxiety and depression in patients with premature ovarian insufficiency and diminished ovarian reserve: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Frontiers in Psychiatry
Huang S, Zhang D, Shi X, Zhang Y, Wang X, She Y, Liang C, Li X, Zaslawski C Full Article
2024, Nov 21
Acupuncture combined with Chinese herbs versus Chinese herbs alone to improve the clinical efficacy of uterine fibroids: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Frontiers in Oncology
Acupuncture combined with Chinese herbs significantly increased the overall clinical efficacy rate and reduced the size of uterine fibroids, showing a more positive effect on the treatment of uterine fibroids compared to Chinese herbs alone.
Chen T, Chen X, He W, Ma X, Zuo Z Full Article
2024, Dec
Traditional Chinese Medicine Nursing for Gastrointestinal Function Recovery in Patients with Uterine Fibroids After High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound Treatment
Journal of Multidisciplinary Healthcare
The main finding of the study is that traditional Chinese medicine nursing programs can improve early gastrointestinal function in patients with uterine fibroids treated with high-intensity focused ultrasound, as well as alleviate negative emotions and improve nursing satisfaction.
Liu Y, Jin W, Wang K, Chang Z, Zhang L Full Article
2024, Oct 29
Unveiling the role of traditional regimens in the management of uterine fibroids: A systematic review
Health Care for Women International
Traditional medicines show promising outcomes in reducing fibroid size and relieving symptoms without significant side effects, but conclusive evidence is lacking.
Balkrishna A, Upreti J, Semwal A, Kumar A, Dabas A, Katiyar P, Srivastava D, Arya V Full Article
2024, Jul 11
Efficacy and safety of electroacupuncture in patients with postpartum depression: a meta-analysis
Frontiers in Psychiatry
Electroacupuncture (EA) does not significantly reduce Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAMD) and Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) scores compared to sham EA in patients with PPD, but exhibits a superior total response rate and lower incidence of adverse events.
Fang X, Wang X, Zheng W, Han J, Ge X Full Article
2024, Sept
Inadequate Evidence for Acupuncture as an Alternative or Adjunct to Antidepressants/Psychotherapy for Postpartum Depression: A Bayesian Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis
Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment
Acupuncture, psychotherapy, and antidepressants showed comparable efficacy in reducing depression and anxiety symptoms in PPD patients, with acupuncture combined with psychotherapy offering superior safety profile. However, the quality of evidence was low due to bias and small sample sizes.
Zhao FY, Li L, Xu P, Zhang WJ, Kennedy G, Zheng Z, Wang YM, Yue LP, Ho YS, Fu QQ, Conduit R Full Article
2024, Apr
Effect of omega-3 supplements or diets on fertility in women: A meta-analysis
Heliyon
Omega-3 intake significantly improves women's pregnancy and fertilization rates, with aggregated odds ratios of 1.74, 1.36, and 2.14 for women who received fertility treatment, those who conceived naturally, and fertilization rate, respectively.
Trop-Steinberg S, Gal M, Azar Y, Kilav-Levin R, Heifetz EM Full Article
2024, Jul
Potential Mechanisms of Guizhi Fuling Wan in Treating Endometriosis: An Analysis Based on TCMSP and DisGeNET Databases
Journal of Ethnopharmacology
Pre-clinical and clinical studies indicated that GFW may inhibit the growth of endometriotic lesions by modulating immunity, apoptosis-regulating molecules, and angiogenesis-associated factors, with potential effects on inflammation, angiogenesis, and apoptosis-related pathways.
Yee JL, Huang CY, Yu YC, Huang SJ Full Article
2023, Feb 18
The efficacy and safety of Chinese herbal medicine Guizhi Fuling capsule combined with low dose mifepristone in the treatment of uterine fibroids: a systematic review and meta-analysis of 28 randomized controlled trials
BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies
Guizhi Fuling Capsule (GZFL) combined with low-dose mifepristone (MFP) was found to significantly reduce hormone levels, fibroid and uterine volumes, and menstrual flow, while increasing clinical efficiency without significantly increasing adverse drug reactions compared to low-dose MFP alone.
Lei Y, Yang L, Yang H, Li M, Ou L, Bai Y, Dong T, Gao F, Wei P Full Article
2023, Dec 13
Should acupuncture become a complementary therapy in the treatment of uterine fibroid: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Frontiers in Medicine
Acupuncture was found to effectively reduce the volume of UFs and uterine volume, improve fibroid symptoms, and treatment efficiency without serious adverse reactions.
Ren Y, Zhang J, Wu W, Yuan Y, Wang J, Tang Y, Liao Y, Liu X Full Article
2023, Dec
A dietary intervention for postmenopausal hot flashes: A potential role of gut microbiome. An exploratory analysis
Complementary Therapies in Medicine
The study concluded that there were potential associations between changes in vasomotor symptoms and changes in the gut microbiome in response to a diet change.
Kahleova H, Holtz DN, Strom N, La Reau A, Kolipaka S, Schmidt N, Hata E, Znayenko-Miller T, Holubkov R, Barnard ND Full Article
2023, May
Effect of Guizhi Fuling Wan in primary dysmenorrhea: A randomized controlled trial
Journal of Ethnopharmacology
The study concludes that GFW significantly alleviated the severity of menstrual pain in PD patients with the heat-burning blood-stasis syndrome, as evidenced by a significant decrease in Visual Analog Scale (VAS) scores for pain intensity, Cox Menstrual Symptom Scale (CMSS), Self-rating Anxiety Scale (SAS), and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) syndrome scores compared to the placebo group. No significant differences were observed in Self-rating Depression Scale (SDS) scores between the two groups, and no serious adverse events were reported.
Luo Y, Mao P, Chen P, Li C, Fu X, Zhuang M Full Article
2023, Feb 06
Acupuncture for comorbid depression and insomnia in perimenopause: A feasibility patient-assessor-blinded, randomized, and sham-controlled clinical trial
Frontiers in Public Health
Acupuncture is safe and can contribute to clinically relevant improvements in comorbid PMD and PMI, with satisfactory short-and medium-term effects. Whether the anti-depressive benefit of acupuncture is specific or non-specific remains to be determined. No evidence was found for any longer-term benefit of acupuncture compared to sham at 16 weeks. Further research is required to elucidate mechanisms underlying the short to medium term effects of acupuncture.
Zhao FY, Zheng Z, Fu QQ, Conduit R, Xu H, Wang HR, Huang YL, Jiang T, Zhang WJ, Kennedy GA Full Article
2023, Feb 27
The Role of Dietary Fats in the Development and Treatment of Endometriosis
Life
Results have shown that the risk of endometriosis may increase with a higher consumption of products rich in saturated fats, especially palmitic acid and trans-unsaturated fatty acids.
Marcinkowska A, Górnicka M Full Article
2023, Oct 10
Pregnancy Benefit of Acupuncture on in vitro Fertilization: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Chinese Journal of Integrative Medicine
This review suggests that acupuncture especially for transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation (TEAS) improved clinical pregnancy rate (CPR) and live birth rate (LBR) among IVF women. However, prudence in interpreting its clinical meanings should be exercised because the associations seemingly suggested not a substantially significant benefit.
Zhang H, Zhang C, Ma P, Sun C, Sun C, Liu X, Pu Z, Lin Y, Liu B, Liu C, Yan S Full Article
2022, Jan
Randomized double-blind trial comparing low dose and conventional dose of a modified traditional herbal formula Guizhi Fuling Wan in women with symptomatic uterine fibroids
Journal of Ethnopharmacology
Both low-dose and conventional-dose of the herbal formula Guizhi Fuling Wan significantly improved uterine fibroid-related symptoms and fibroid volume, with the low-dose group showing greater improvement in the Chinese medicine syndrome score. No significant difference was found between the two groups.
Meng W, Lin WL, Yeung WF, Zhang Y, Ng EHY, Lee YPE, Zhang ZJ, Rong J, Lao L Full Article
2022, Jul 14
Reliability of Evidence to Guide Decision-Making in the Use of Acupuncture for Postpartum Depression
Frontiers in Public Health
Hu X, Fan Q, Ma L, Jin R, Gong R, Zhao X, Qiu F, Zhou L Full Article
2022, Oct
Paroxetine combined with traditional chinese medicine prescriptions in the treatment of postpartum depression: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials
Frontiers in Neuroendocrinology
Zeng M, Gong A, Wu Z Full Article
2022, Sept 07
The Treatment of Complementary and Alternative Medicine on Female Infertility Caused by Endometrial Factors
Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
In conclusion, CAM therapy has certain advantages in the treatment of infertility caused by endometrial factors. Although it is not the main intervention and treatment measure for infertility caused by endometrial factors, it is still being more widely used because it can restore the physiological function of endometrium, improve the pregnancy rate, adjust the psychological state of women, and improve the quality of life.
Lin J, Ma H, Li H, Han J, Guo T, Qin Z, Jia L, Zhang Y Full Article
2022, Jan
Combinatory effects of current regimens and Guizhi Fuling Wan on the development of endometriosis
Taiwanese Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology Taiwan Association of Obstetrics and Gynecology
The study concluded that GFW has therapeutic effects on endometriosis, but when combined with current hormonal therapies, it may hinder the efficacy of each individual agent in treating the condition.
Chen CC, Huang CY, Shiu LY, Yu YC, Lai JC, Chang CC, Fu CF, Huang SJ Full Article
2022, Aug 18
Effectiveness of aromatherapy in reducing duration of labour: a systematic review
Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology
Some aromatherapies, such as lavender, can effectively reduce the length of labor and offer an inexpensive, holistic method for labor augmentation, though they should be used with caution.
Ghiasi A, Bagheri L, Sharaflari F Full Article
2022, Apr 28
New Insights in Pathogenesis of Endometriosis
Frontiers in Medicine
The article emphasizes the lack of reliable early diagnostic tests, symptomatic therapies, and the significant social impact of endometriosis, particularly considering fertility problems. Pathogenetic hypotheses include retrograde menstruation and coelomic metaplasia, but recent experimental evidence suggests an alteration of the female genital system developmental program during a critical window in fetal life as a key event leading to endometriosis development.
Signorile PG, Viceconte R, Baldi A Full Article
2022, Aug
Determining the effect of inhalation and lavender essential oil massage therapy on the severity of perceived labor pain in primiparous women: A randomized controlled trial
Explore: The Journal of Science & Healing
Inhalation and massage therapy applied using lavender essential oil contributed to the alleviation of perceived labor pain. For this reason, massage therapy and inhalation applications using lavender oil are recommended to be applied by midwives as a complementary method to adapt to labor pain during delivery.
Karatopuk S, Yarıcı F Full Article
2022, Nov 30
Midwifery Complementary Treatment with The Application of Oxytocin Massage Using Lavender Aromatherapy Oil on Breast Milk Production in Postpartum Mothers
Babali Nursing Research
Combination complementary therapy between oxytocin massage and lavender aromatherapy can increase breast milk production in postpartum mothers in Denpasar City.
Widiastuti NMR, Arini KN, Yuniati MG Full Article
2022, Apr
Potential Mechanisms and Clinical Effectiveness of Acupuncture in Depression
Current Neuropharmacology
In summary, substantial evidence from animal and human researches supported the beneficial effect of acupuncture in depression.
Yang NN, Lin LL, Li YJ, Li HP, Cao Y, Tan CX, Hao XW, Ma SM, Wang L, Liu CZ Full Article
2022, Jan
Elucidation of the Effects of Si-Wu Tang on Menstrual Disorder Patterns through Activation of Aromatase and Antioxidation
Frontiers in Pharmacology
If the ratio of Shu Di Huang and Shao Yao should be increased, the function of SWT will be more forceful against menstrual disorder patterns through activating aromatase and antioxidative properties.
Guan-Cheng Huang, Yi-Zhe Tsai, Chia-Jung Lee, Heng-Yu Chang, Ching-Chiung Wang Full Article
2022, Oct 18
A Network Pharmacology Study on the Similarities and Differences in the Mechanisms of Zuo Gui Wan/You Gui Wan for the Treatment of Premature Ovarian Failure
Combinatorial Chemistry & High Throughput Screening
Zuo Gui Wan and You Gui Wan could treat premature ovarian failure (POF) by inhibiting oxidative stress and inflammation, regulating hormone levels, improving ovarian function, and promoting follicular development. Zuo Gui Wan is inclined to immune regulation, while You Gui Wan prefers insulin regulation. Therefore, similarities and differences clearly exist in the specific mechanisms of Zuo Gui Wan and You Gui Wan in the treatment of POF.
Shanshan Mei, Chaoqin Yu, Jie Ding, Wen Cheng Full Article
2022, Jan
The Traditional Chinese Medicine Prescription Pattern of Endometriosis Patients in Taiwan: A Population-Based Study
Frontiers in Pharmacology
Gui-Zhi-Fu-Ling-Wan (Cinnamon Twig and Poria Pill) containing sedative and anti-inflammatory agents is the most commonly prescribed Chinese herbal formula mainly for the treatment of endometriosis-related symptomatic discomfort and the effects of these TCMs should be taken into account by healthcare providers.
Ruei-Chi Fang, Yueh-Ting Tsai, Jung-Nien Lai, Chia-Hao Yeh, Chien-Tung Wu Full Article
2022, Aug 26
Analysis of the Mechanism of GuizhiFuling Wan in Treating Adenomyosis Based on Network Pharmacology Combined with Molecular Docking and Experimental Verification
Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
GuizhiFuling Wan (GFW) could reduce the expression of MMP-2, MMP-9, and VEGF, which might be an essential mechanism for GFW to inhibit the invasion and metastasis of ectopic tissues of adenomyosis (AM).
Shi Y, Zhang C, Wang X, Wang Z, Zhang Y, Liu Z, Wang X, Shi W Full Article
2022, Aug 29
Acupuncture combined with metformin versus metformin alone to improve pregnancy rate in polycystic ovary syndrome: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Frontiers in Endocrinology
Based on the results of this study, compared with metformin alone, acupuncture combined with metformin has a positive effect on pregnancy rate, ovulation rate, and insulin resistance in PCOS. However, due to the limitations regarding the number and quality of the included studies, the above conclusions need to be verified by further high-quality studies.
Chen X, Lan Y, Yang L, Liu Y, Li H, Zhu X, Zhao Y, Long C, Wang M, Xie Q, Li Z, Wu J Full Article
2022, Dec
Efficacy and safety of acupuncture for polycystic ovary syndrome: An overview of systematic reviews
Journal of Integrative Medicine
The efficacy and safety of acupuncture for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) remains uncertain due to the limitations and inconsistencies of current evidence.
Yang H, Xiao Z, Yin Z, Yu Z, Liu J, Xiao Y, Zhou Y, Li J, Yang J, Liang F Full Article
2022, Jul
Effect of acupuncture on IVF-related anxiety: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Reproductive BioMedicine Online
Acupuncture is a drug-free and safe treatment that may benefit those who are burdened with IVF-related anxiety.
Hullender Rubin LE, Smith CA, Schnyer RN, Tahir P, Pasch LA Full Article
2022, Jan 14
Can acupuncture improve sleep quality and anxiety among women during perimenopause?
Medicine
This study will provide new evidence on the effectiveness and safety of acupuncture for the treatment of insomnia, anxiety, and depression in perimenopausal women, and provide additional options for clinicians and patients to improve insomnia and anxiety.
Ping Y, Liang C, Fan X, Zhang L, Ying D, Wang Z Full Article
2022, Sept 09
Effects of acupuncture on the pregnancy outcomes of frozen-thawed embryo transfer: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Frontiers in Public Health
Acupuncture could be instrumental in the pregnancy outcomes of FET, and has very few risks of severe adverse events; however, the quality of evidence is unsatisfactory. Further research with rigorous methodological quality should be considered, and the protocols of acupuncture also need more investigations
Zhu C, Xia W, Huang J, Zhang X, Li F, Yu X, Ma J, Zeng Q Full Article
2022, May
Traditional Chinese herbal medicine in treating amenorrhea caused by antipsychotic drugs: Meta-analysis and systematic review
Journal of Ethnopharmacology
Chinese herbal medicine can effectively treat amenorrhea caused by psychiatric drugs, although it takes a long time to achieve satisfactory effectiveness.
Liu L, Li H, Tan G, Ma Z Full Article
2022, Apr 08
Short-term Outcomes of Acupuncture Interventions on Uterine Adenomyosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Acupuncture & Electro-Therapeutics Research
Acupuncture therapy is a promising avenue for the development of alternatives to surgery and medicine in the treatment of adenomyosis.
Li Q, Li YX, Fan L, Yuan SE Full Article
2022, Jan
Systematic review and meta-analysis of complementary treatments for women with symptomatic endometriosis
International Journal of Gynecology & Obstetrics
Numerous complementary treatments have been used to alleviate the symptoms of endometriosis, but only acupuncture has demonstrated a significant improvement in outcomes.
Ticiana A.A. Mira, Mariana M. Buen, Murilo G. Borges, Daniela A. Yela, Cristina L. Benetti-Pinto Full Article
2022, Mar 31
Effects of Acupuncture Combined with Moxibustion on Reproductive and Metabolic Outcomes in Patients with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
Among patients with PCOS, using acupuncture combined with moxibustion as a complementary therapy to basic treatments can improve pregnancy, ovulation, and miscarriage rates, the levels some sex hormones, and metabolic indicators, with good safety. Additionally, this combination therapy may have no effect on the FSH, oestradiol, or dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate level.
Li P, Peng J, Ding Z, Zhou X, Liang R Full Article
2021, Apr 21
The effectiveness of a modified Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan formulation (Gynoclear™) for the treatment of endometriosis: a study protocol for a placebo-controlled, double-blind, randomised controlled trial
Trials
The study concluded that Gynoclear™ showed potential in reducing the severity and duration of non-cyclical pelvic pain, dysmenorrhoea, dyspareunia, and other symptoms of endometriosis.
Armour M, Al-Dabbas MA, Ee C, Smith CA, Ussher J, Arentz S, Lawson K, Abbott J Full Article
2021, Nov 01
Efficacy and Safety of a Standardized Soy and Hop Extract on Menopausal Symptoms: A 12-Week, Multicenter, Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial
The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine Society for Acupuncture Research
The study concludes that 190 mg of combined soy and hop extract is safe and effective for improving menopausal symptoms.
Kim HI, Kim MK, Lee I, Yun J, Kim EH, Seo SK Full Article
2021, Jan 28
The role of genital mycoplasma infection in female infertility: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
American Journal of Reproductive Immunology
Women with infertility were found to have a statistically higher odds of having any genital mycoplasma infection compared to the control group, with a pooled odds ratio of 3.82 (95% CI: 2.55, 5.72). Subgroup analysis further identified M. genitalium, M. hominis, and U. urealyticum infections as significantly associated with female infertility. The results suggest the need for guidelines in diagnosing and treating genital mycoplasma infections to prevent female infertility.
Tantengco OAG, de Castro Silva M, Velayo CL Full Article
2021, Sept
Levofloxacin or gonadotropin releasing hormone agonist treatment decreases intrauterine microbial colonization in human endometriosis
European Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Reproductive Biology
Antibiotic treatment, either alone or in combination with GnRHa, was found to significantly decrease specific bacterial genera in women with endometriosis, leading to a decrease in chronic endometritis occurrence and improvements in macrophage infiltration, cell proliferation, and micro-vessel density, indicating a potential effectiveness in improving uterine infection and associated pathological changes in human endometriosis.
Khan KN, Fujishita A, Muto H, Masumoto H, Ogawa K, Koshiba A, Mori T, Itoh K, Teramukai S, Matsuda K, Nakashima M, Kitawaki J Full Article
2021, Sept 23
Decreased occurrence of endometriosis in women with Chlamydia trachomatis infection
American Journal of Reproductive Immunology
In a retrospective case-controlled cohort study with 207 women who had laparoscopic surgery, chlamydia infection was associated with a significant decrease in tubal patency and the occurrence of endometriosis. Even among women with patent tubes, laparoscopic detection of endometriosis was significantly decreased in those with chlamydia infection. The study suggests that a previous history of chlamydia infection significantly decreases the occurrence of endometriosis, independent of age, menstrual status, parity, and tubal patency.
Khan KN, Fujishita A, Kitajima M, Ishimaru T, Ogawa K, Koshiba A, Mori T, Kitawaki J Full Article
2021, Jun
Lavender essential oil on postmenopausal women with insomnia: Double-blind randomized trial
Complementary Therapies in Medicine
The study found that although there were no significant differences between the groups, participants who inhaled Lavandula angustifolia essential oil showed improved overall sleep pattern, quality, and sleep efficiency, as well as decreased sleep onset latency, depression levels, hot flashes, and postmenopausal symptoms.
dos Reis Lucena L, dos Santos-Junior JG, Tufik S, Hachul H Full Article
2021, Jun
Impact of phytoestrogens on treatment of urogenital menopause symptoms: A systematic review of randomized clinical trials
European Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Reproductive Biology
Phytoestrogens in various forms have been shown to improve menopausal urogenital symptoms, including urogenital atrophy, urinary disorders, and sexual function.
Abdi F, Rahnemaei FA, Roozbeh N, Pakzad R Full Article
2021, Sept 30
Effect of Aromatherapy with Lavender on Labor Pain: A Literature Review
Disease and Diagnosis
Although the results of this study showed that lavender aromatherapy suppressed labor pain, more detailed randomized clinical trials with higher precision are needed to achieve an accurate outcome for data generalization regarding the use of labor pain management.
Hatami Rad R Full Article
2021, Oct 26
Integrating Network Pharmacology and Experimental Validation Deciphers the Mechanism of Guizhi Fuling Wan against Adenomyosis
Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
The endocrine mechanism of Guizhi Fuling Wan (GZFLW) in treating adenomyosis (AM) was explored based on network pharmacology, molecular docking, and animal experiments, which provided a theoretical basis for the clinical application of GZFLW.
Wang H, Zhang J, Zhu Q, Fu X, Li C Full Article
2021, May 28
An Overview of Systematic Reviews of Using Chinese Medicine to Treat Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
At present, only low-quality evidence is available to suggest that combined treatment with Chinese and Western medicine is superior to Western medicine alone in improving the pregnancy rate, ovulation rate, serum hormone levels, and adverse effects of patients with PCOS. Future clinical trials and reviews of higher quality are recommended to clarify the efficacy of Chinese medicine and provide more accurate evidence.
Wang L, Liang R, Tang Q, Zhu L Full Article
2021, Jun 04
Chinese herbal medicine for subfertile women with polycystic ovarian syndrome
Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews Cochrane
There is insufficient evidence to support the use of CHM for subfertile women with PCOS. No data are available on live birth. We are uncertain of the effect of CHM on pregnancy rates for there is no consistent evidence to indicate that CHM influences fertility outcomes. However, we find that the addition of CHM to clomiphene may improve pregnancy rates, but there is very limited, low certainty evidence for this outcome. Furthermore, there is insufficient evidence on adverse effects to indicate whether CHM is safe. In the future, well‐designed, carefully conducted RCTs are needed, with a particular focus on the live birth rate and other safety indexes.
Zhou K, Zhang J, Xu L, Lim CED Full Article
2021, Apr 26
Comparative Utility of Acupuncture and Western Medication in the Management of Perimenopausal Insomnia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
A low to moderate level of evidence supports that acupuncture could be a safe alternative to or adjuvant to hypnotic drugs in improving sleep quality and quantity and other menopause-related symptoms among women with perimenopausal insomnia (PMI). This finding suggests that acupuncture may be a useful addition to treatment for PMI.
Zhao, F.-Y., Fu, Q.-Q., Kennedy, G. A., Conduit, R., Wu, W.-Z., Zhang, W.-J., & Zheng, Z. Full Article
2021, Dec 13
Effect of acupuncture on menopausal hot flushes and serum hormone levels: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Acupuncture in Medicine British Medical Acupuncture Society
Acupuncture may not decrease hot flush frequency, but yet appears to have similar effects on serum hormone levels as HT, that is, increased E2 and decreased FSH and LH. Considering that no firm conclusions could be drawn due to the low quality and limited number of included trials included, further high-quality RCTs need to be conducted.
Liu C, Wang Z, Guo T, Zhuang L, Gao X Full Article
2021, Sept 29
The Relation between Caffeine Consumption and Endometriosis: An Updated Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Nutrients
In conclusion, caffeine consumption does not appear to be associated with increased risk for endometriosis.
Kechagias KS, Katsikas Triantafyllidis K, Kyriakidou M, Giannos P, Kalliala I, Veroniki AA, Paraskevaidi M, Kyrgiou M Full Article
2021, Apr 30
Complementary and Alternative Medicine for the Treatment of Abnormal Endometrial Conditions in Women with PCOS: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) may effectively ameliorate the endometrial condition of PCOS patients, and it can regulate the level of hormone secretion to increase the ovulation rate and the pregnancy rate.
Jiayu Hu, Wenhua Shi, Jiayue Xu, Shaoxuan Liu, Siya Hu, Wenjing Fu, Jing Wang and Fengjuan Han Full Article
2021, Jan
Meta analysis on acupuncture for postpartum depression
World Journal of Acupuncture-Moxibustion World Federation of Acupuncture-Moxibustion Societies
Acupuncture treatment for postpartum depression is effective compared with western medication. However, more high-quality clinical randomized controlled trials larger sample sizes are still needed to verify the result.
WANG, J., TAN, L., MEI, Q., ZHENG, Q., YANG, S., & MEI, Z. Full Article
2021, Jul 28
Effectiveness of Acupuncture in the Treatment of Hyperemesis Gravidarum: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
Our study suggested that acupuncture was effective in treating HG. However, as the potential inferior quality and underlying publication bias were found in the included studies, there is a need for more superior-quality RCTs to examine their effectiveness and safety.
Haizhen Lu, Chengwen Zheng, Yanmei Zhong, Linhao Cheng, Yi Zhou Full Article
2021, Feb 22
The Relationship of Acupuncture Use to the Endometriosis Risk in Females With Rheumatoid Arthritis: Real-World Evidence From Population-Based Health Claims
Frontiers in Medicine
Findings suggest that adding acupuncture to conventional therapy may decrease the subsequent endometriosis risk in female RA patients. Prospective randomized trials are recommended to further clarify whether the association revealed in this study supports a causal link.
Chen Wei-Jen, Livneh Hanoch, Hsu Chien-Hui, Hu Ying-To, Lai Ning-Sheng, Guo How-Ran, Tsai Tzung-Yi Full Article
2021, Mar 22
The Effect of Acupuncture on Glucose Metabolism and Lipid Profiles in Patients with PCOS: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
Acupuncture is relatively effective and safe in improving glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity in patients with PCOS. The included studies were generally of not bad methodological quality, but further large-scale, long-term randomized controlled trials with rigorous methodological standards are still warranted.
Ruqun Zheng, Peng Qing, Mei Han, Jinlong Song, Min Hu, Hongxia Ma, Juan Li Full Article
2021, May 28
Acupuncture as an Independent or Adjuvant Management to Standard Care for Perimenopausal Depression: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Frontiers in Psychiatry
This article highlighted acupuncture alone or combined with standard care was effective in reducing depression in pre-menopausal symptoms.
Zhao FY, Fu QQ, Kennedy GA, Conduit R, Zhang WJ, Zheng Z Full Article
2021, Mar 30
IVF, acupuncture and mental health: a qualitative study of perceptions and experiences of women participating in a randomized controlled trial of acupuncture during IVF treatment
Reproductive BioMedicine & Society Online
In conclusion, there are significant features associated with a placebo effect in acupuncture that might be exploited to provide psychological benefit for women undertaking IVF.
de Lacey S, Sanderman E, Smith CA Full Article
2021, Jun 04
Efficacy and safety of acupuncture for urinary retention after hysterectomy
Medicine
There is insufficient evidence that acupuncture can increase the patient's maximal flow rate (MFR), bladder function recovery rate (BR), and urinary tract infection rate (UIR). However, acupuncture can effectively improve the post voided residual urine (PVR), maximal cystometric capacity, and bladder capacity for first voiding desire values of patients with urinary retention after hysterectomy. Although limited due to the quality and methodological limitations of the included studies, acupuncture can still be used as an effective and safe treatment for women with urinary retention after hysterectomy.
Zhao Q, Yan C, Dan M, Jia H Full Article
2021, Feb
Effects of acupuncture on the relief of anxiety and/or depression during in vitro fertilization: A systematic review and meta-analysis
European Journal of Integrative Medicine
The study indicated high efficacy of acupuncture treatments for IVF patients. The systematic review highlighted that patients were more likely to have reduced anxiety levels and improvements of release in hormones such as cortisol and neurotransmitters such as nore- pinephrine . Therefore increases the chances of fertility and pregnancy.
Ye JY, He YJ, Zhan MJ, Qu F Full Article
2021, Feb 04
The Effects of Acupuncture on Pregnancy Outcomes of Recurrent Implantation Failure: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
The results of meta-analysis show that for the outcome measurements including clinical pregnancy rate, biochemical pregnancy rate, embryo implantation rate, and endometrial thickness, the use of acupuncture in the treatment group is higher than the sham or nonacupuncture group, in which the difference is statistically significant.
Li, M., Liu, Y., Wang, H., Zheng, S., Deng, Y., & Li, Y. Full Article
2021, Apr 20
An Overview of Systematic Reviews of Acupuncture for Infertile Women Undergoing in vitro Fertilization and Embryo Transfer
Frontiers in Public Health
Based on the current evidence, acupuncture appeared to be beneficial to increase the clinical pregnancy rates, on-going pregnancy rates and live birth rates in IVF females. The study also reported that acupuncture was more superior than no adjunctive treatment on miscarriage rate reduction, thus increasing the chances of overall pregnancy.
Wang X, Wang Y, Wei S, He B, Cao Y, Zhang N, Li M Full Article
2020, May 01
The Effectiveness of Aromatherapy in the Management of Labor Pain and Anxiety: A Systematic Review
Ethiopian Journal of Health Sciences
Aromatherapy, using methods such as inhalation, massage, and footbath with essential oils like lavender, has shown positive effects in reducing both labor pain and anxiety, supporting its role as a complementary and alternative medicine during childbirth.
Mahbubeh Tabatabaeichehr , Hamed Mortazavi Full Article
2020, May 18
Oral galactagogues (natural therapies or drugs) for increasing breast milk production in mothers of non‐hospitalised term infants
Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews Cochrane
There is low‐certainty evidence that pharmacological galactagogues may increase milk volume.
Foong SC, Tan ML, Foong WC, Marasco LA, Ho JJ, Ong JH Full Article
2020, Dec 8
Miscarriage on Endometriosis and Adenomyosis in Women by Assisted Reproductive Technology or with Spontaneous Conception: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
BioMed Research International
Women with endometriosis had an augmented miscarriage risk in SC and a similar miscarriage risk during ART. Adenomyosis was associated with miscarriage in pregnant women using ART.
Yangxue Huang, Xianhong Zhao, Yiyuan Chen, Jie Wang, Weilin Zheng, Lixing Cao Full Article
2020, May 12
Antenatal perineal massage benefits in reducing perineal trauma and postpartum morbidities: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
International Urogynecology Journal International Urogynecological Association
Antenatal perineal massage is associated with a lower risk of severe perineal trauma and postpartum complications.
Abdelhakim AM, Eldesouky E, Elmagd IA, Mohammed A, Farag EA, Mohammed AE, Hamam KM, Hussein AS, Ali AS, Keshta NHA, Hamza M, Samy A, Abdel-Latif AA Full Article
2020, Aug
Chinese herbal formula siwutang for treating primary dysmenorrhea: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Maturitas European Menopause and Andropause Society
In conclusion, the included trials showed favorable effects of Siwutang (SWT) for treating primary dysmenorrhea when compared with conventional medicine.
Li G, Liu A, Lin M, Liao S, Wen Z Full Article
2020, Sept
Herbal medicine (Taohong Siwu Tang) for the treatment of primary dysmenorrhea: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Explore: The Journal of Science & Healing
This systematic review and meta-analysis provides moderate quality evidence for the superiority of modified TST (MTST) over non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) as well as that of Tao-Hong Siwu Tang (TST) plus oral contraceptives (OCs) over OCs in the treatment of primary dysmenorrhea.
Ji HR, Park KS, Woo HL, Lee MJ, Yoon JG, Lee HJ, Hwang DS, Lee CH, Jang JB, Lee JM Full Article
2020, Mar
Effects of acupuncture on Luteinized Unruptured Follicle Syndrome: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Complementary Therapies in Medicine
Improved serum luteinizing hormone and estradiol levels, and decreased pulsatility index and resistance index of ovary artery were shown in both two subgroups. Evidences of most outcomes were “low” or “very low”, so the results should be cautiously interpreted.
Xiaojuan Liu, Wenying Shi, Zhifeng Liu, Shuqing Shi, Chao Ke, Peiming Zhang, Zhenyu Tan, Wei Zhang Full Article
2020, Nov
Acupoint stimulation and Chinese herbal medicines for the treatment of premature ovarian insufficiency: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Complementary Therapies in Medicine
This meta-analysis suggested that acupoint stimulation and Chinese herbal medicines (CHM) can serve as complementary therapies to alleviate menstrual disorders, perimenopausal symptoms, and serum sex hormone levels in premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) females.
Li Y, Xia G, Tan Y, Shuai J Full Article
2020, Sept 18
Treatments for breast engorgement during lactation
Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews Cochrane
Although some interventions may be promising for the treatment of breast engorgement, such as cabbage leaves, cold gel packs, herbal compresses, and massage, the certainty of evidence is low and we cannot draw robust conclusions about their true effects.
Zakarija-Grkovic I, Stewart F Full Article
2020, Aug 12
Therapeutic Effects and Mechanisms of Herbal Medicines for Treating Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Review
Frontiers in Pharmacology
Herbal medicines are thought to be promising resources in the development of effective therapeutic agents for PCOS. Further studies that include methodological quality assessment and quantitative synthesis of outcomes are recommended.
Kwon Chan-Young, Cho Ik-Hyun, Park Kyoung Sun Full Article
2020, Jun 03
Acupuncture for recurrent urinary tract infection in women: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
BJOG: An International Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology Royal College of Obstetricians & Gynaecologists
Given the growing challenge of antibiotic resistance, the chance of achieving a composite cure with acupuncture therapies was greater than that with antibiotics. Acupuncture appeared to be beneficial for treatment and prophylaxis of rUTIs.
Qin X, Coyle ME, Yang L, Liang J, Wang K, Guo X, Zhang AL, Mao W, Lu C, Xue CC, Liu X Full Article
2020, May 13
Effect of Acupuncture on Pregnancy-Related Insomnia and Melatonin: A Single-Blinded, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial
Nature and Science of Sleep
Acupuncture was shown to significantly improve the sleep quality in pregnant women, possibly through increasing melatonin secretion, and could be recommended as a low-cost and low-risk alternative treatment to pharmacological therapies.
Foroughinia S, Hessami K, Asadi N, Foroughinia L, Hadianfard M, Hajihosseini A, Pirasteh N, Vossoughi M, Vafaei H, Faraji A, Kasraeian M, Doroudchi M, Rafiee Monjezi M, Roozmeh S, Bazrafshan K. Full Article
2020, Feb 21
Vulvar pruritus-Causes, Diagnosis and Therapeutic Approach
Deutsches Arzteblatt International
As vulvar pruritus has multiple causes, standardization of its diagnostic evaluation and treatment would be desirable, both to achieve optimal efficacy and to meet the diverse needs of women who suffer from this condition.
Woelber L, Prieske K, Mendling W, Schmalfeldt B, Tietz HJ, Jaeger A. Full Article
2020, Dec
Effectiveness of different acupuncture for infertility: Overview of systematic reviews and network meta-analysis
European Journal of Integrative Medicine
The study showcased that acupuncture significantly increased the pregnancy and ovulation rates compared to no acupuncture group. The patients reported to have reduced rate of miscarriages and increased endometrial thickness. The overall review highlights the significant effectiveness of acupuncture for successful IVF process.
Zhang, J., He, Y., Liu, Y., Huang, X., & Yu, H. Full Article
2020, May 29
Effectiveness of acupuncture in polycystic ovary syndrome
Medicine
There was insufficient evidence to support that acupuncture could promote live birth, pregnancy, and ovulation. However, acupuncture could promote the recovery of menstrual cycles as well as downregulate the levels of LH and testosterone in patients with PCOS.
Wu J, Chen D, Liu N Full Article
2020, Feb 24
Acupuncture for premature ovarian insufficiency: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Journal of Acupuncture and Tuina Science
The present study indicated that acupuncture had an advantage over hormone replacement therapy in reducing serum FSH level and increasing serum E2 level in women with premature ovarian insufficiency.
Yin, Yq., Xu, Hf., Fang, Yg. et al. Full Article
2020, Apr 29
Effectiveness and Safety of Acupuncture and Moxibustion for Primary Dysmenorrhea: An Overview of Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses
Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
Acupuncture and moxibustion seem to be effective and safe approaches in treatment of primary dysmenorrhea; yet, the methodological quality of most of the studies and the quality of evidence were low. Thus, additional studies are required to further confirm these results.
Jun Yang, Jun Xiong, Ting Yuan, Xue Wang, Yunfeng Jiang, Xiaohong Zhou, Kai Liao, Lingling Xu Full Article
2019, Jun
The prescription patterns of traditional Chinese medicine for women with polycystic ovary syndrome in Taiwan
Medicine
Our study identified the characteristics and prescription patterns of TCM for patients with PCOS in Taiwan. We may need do further longitudinal research for TCM and its long-term response for improvement of pregnancy rate and reduction of metabolic disease rate.
Lin MJ, Chen HW, Liu PH, Cheng WJ, Kuo SL, Kao MC Full Article
2019, Aug 18
A Classic Herbal Formula Guizhi Fuling Wan for Menopausal Hot Flushes: From Experimental Findings to Clinical Applications
Biomedicines
169 compounds were identified from GFW pills, tablets, and capsules. Therapeutic effects, including frequency and severity of MHFs, peripheral blood flow, hormones, neurotransmitter, and cytokines, were not consistent across different study types. ESR2 with genetic variation, CGRP receptor, and IL-8 were identified to be related to the mechanisms of actions of GFW on MHFs. The differences in therapeutic effects could be potentially due to dose variations among clinical and experimental studies and ESR2 gene differences in rats and homo species.
Li , Hung , Li , Yang Full Article
2019, Aug
Labour pain control by aromatherapy: A meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials
Women and Birth Australian College of Midwives
Aromatherapy is effective in reducing labor pain and duration, and is generally safe for mothers, although further trials with more stringent designs are needed to confirm these findings.
Chen SF, Wang CH, Chan PT, Chiang HW, Hu TM, Tam KW, Loh EW Full Article
2019, Sept 25
Gyejibongnyeong-Hwan (Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan) Ameliorates Human Uterine Myomas via Apoptosis
Frontiers in Pharmacology
These results suggest that Gyejibongnyeong-hwan (GBH) may induce apoptosis of leiomyomas and demonstrated that GBH can be a potential therapeutic and/or preventive agent for uterine leiomyomas.
Lee SM, Choi ES, Ha E, Ji KY, Shin SJ, Jung J Full Article
2019, Jan 20
The effects of acupuncture on the secondary outcomes of anxiety and quality of life for women undergoing IVF: A randomized controlled trial
Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica Nordic Federation of Societies of Obstetrics and Gynecology
Acupuncture may reduce anxiety at embryo transfer. Quality of life did not differ between the groups. Women experience reduced emotional well-being 3 months following the IVF cycle, highlighting ongoing unmet psycho-social needs.
Smith CA, de Lacey S, Chapman M, Ratcliffe J, Norman RJ, Johnson NP, Fahey P Full Article
2019, May 21
Efficacy of Acupoint Massage Versus Normal Treatments for Acute Mastitis: A Systematic Review
Journal of Integrative Nursing
The current evidence shows that, compared with normal treatments, acupoint massage can improve the efficiency of clinical treatment, shorten the onset time, and decrease the lump size.
Hui JU, Xue-Ling MA, Hong GUO, Hai-Yan WANG, You-Hua LIU, Luo YANG, Ling TANG Full Article
2019, Aug
Effectiveness of breast massage for the treatment of women with breastfeeding problems
JBI Database of Systematic Reviews and Implementation Reports
Overall, different types of breast massage were reported as effective in reducing immediate pain for the participants.
Anderson L, Kynoch K, Kildea S, Lee N Full Article
2019, Jun 26
The Effects of Aromatherapy on Postpartum Women: A Systematic Review
Journal of Nursing Research
This systematic review may serve as a reference for healthcare workers in caring for postpartum women. Aromatherapy may be applied as a noninvasive complementary intervention to promote physio-psychological comfort in postpartum women.
TSAI SS, WANG HH, CHOU FH Full Article
2019, Nov 18
A comprehensive review of clinical studies with herbal medicine on polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
DARU Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences
Some plants as natural remedies may have beneficial effects on improving different aspects of PCOS.
Moini Jazani, A., Nasimi Doost Azgomi, H., Nasimi Doost Azgomi, A. et al. Full Article
2019, Jan 01
Complementary and Alternative Medicine for Menopause
Journal of Evidence-Based Integrative Medicine
CAM interventions for menopause, including mind-body practices, herbal products, and other whole system alternative medicine approaches are commonly used to treat menopausal symptoms.
Johnson A, Roberts L, Elkins G Full Article
2019, Mar 13
Acupuncture in improving endometrial receptivity: a systematic review and meta-analysis
BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies
The academic research indicated that acupuncture has a high efficacy in patients with low endometrial receptivity. Patients reported to have high double continuous pregnancy rate in the luteal phase. It also showed to improve the endometrial morphology, promote the microcirculation of the film inside the uterus and increase pregnancy rate.
Zhong, Y., Zeng, F., Liu, W. et al. Full Article
2019, Mar 20
Effectiveness of Acupuncture Used for the Management of Postpartum Depression: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
BioMed Research International
Our meta-analysis suggested that acupuncture treatment may reduce HAMD scores, while no significant effects on EPDS, clinical response, and serum estradiol levels were observed.
Li W, Yin P, Lao L, Xu S Full Article
2019, Oct 15
The maintenance effect of acupuncture on breast cancer-related menopause symptoms: a systematic review
Climacteric International Menopause Society
Acupuncture significantly alleviated menopause symptoms for at least 3 months, but not hot flushes. Breast cancer patients concerned about the adverse effects of hormone therapy could consider acupuncture as an alternative. Additional acupuncture at 3 months after the initial treatment course could be considered. A large-scale study may help to define the optimal guideline for this issue.
Chien TJ, Liu CY, Fang CJ, Kuo CY Full Article
2019, Oct 03
Acupuncture and clomiphene citrate for anovulatory infertility: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Acupuncture in Medicine British Medical Acupuncture Society
The use of acupuncture as a monotherapy significantly improved the rate of pregnancy among the study participants compared with the use of CC alone. However, any results drawn from these studies should be interpreted with caution when considering the context of clinical practice.
Gao R, Guo B, Bai J, Wu Y, Wu K Full Article
2019, Jan 02
Acupuncture performed around the time of embryo transfer: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Reproductive BioMedicine Online
Acupuncture may have a significant effect on clinical pregnancy rates, independent of comparator group, when used in women who have had multiple previous IVF cycles, or where there was a low baseline pregnancy rate.
Smith, C. A., Armour, M., Shewamene, Z., Tan, H. Y., Norman, R. J., & Johnson, N. P. Full Article
2019, Jun 14
The effects of acupuncture on pregnancy outcomes of in vitro fertilization: a systematic review and meta-analysis
BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies
This review indicates that acupuncture improves clinical pregnancy rate among women with a history of unsuccessful IVF attempt, and number of acupuncture treatments is a potential influential factor. The study also indicated that electroacupuncture can be considered an alternative to hormone drugs in increasing the success rate of IVF.
Xie Z, Peng Z, Yao B, Chen L, Mu Y, Cheng J, Li Q, Luo X, Yang P, Xia Y Full Article
2019, Jul
Acupuncture for infertile women without undergoing assisted reproductive techniques (ART)
Medicine
This systematic review and meta analysis of randomised control trials indicated that acupuncture is significantly effective in improving pregnancy rate, ovulation rate, LH, and endometrial thickness. The result showed that acupuncture with combined therapy is more effective than clomiphene citrate (oral medication for fertility). This further indicate that acupuncture can provide an alternative choice with fewer side effects for ovulation induction.
Yun L, Liqun W, Shuqi Y, Chunxiao W, Liming L, Wei Y Full Article
2019, Oct
The effects of acupuncture on pregnancy outcomes of in vitro fertilization with embryo transfer: An interdisciplinary systematic review
Journal of Gynecology Obstetrics and Human Reproduction
This system review indicated that acupuncture appears to be beneficial to women with poor ovarian reserve or with previous unsuccessful attempts of IVF-ET.
Gu, Y.-E., Zhang, X., Zhang, Q., Dai, M.-C., Wu, Y., Zhou, Y., & Qu, F. Full Article
2019, Jun 25
Acupuncture for Premenstrual Syndrome at Different Intervention Time: A Systemic Review and Meta-Analysis
Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
This systematic review shows that the overall effectiveness of acupuncture treatment of premenstrual syndrome is superior to related medications, which is consistent with previous systematic review reports. Immediate and early acupuncture have shown to improve symptoms, and overall health state.
Zhang J, Cao L, Wang Y, Jin Y, Xiao X, Zhang Q Full Article
2019, Sept
Traditional Chinese acupuncture and postpartum depression: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Journal of the Chinese Medical Association Chinese Medical Association, Taipei
Patients in the acupuncture group had significantly better performances assessed by the Hamilton Depression Scale than those in the control group. In addition, significantly better performance in the effective rate was observed in the acupuncture group than in the control group. Traditional Chinese acupuncture seems to be effective in improving some symptoms of PPD.
Tong P, Dong LP, Yang Y, Shi YH, Sun T, Bo P Full Article
2018, Nov 10
Aromatherapy for Managing Pain in Primary Dysmenorrhea: A Systematic Review of Randomized Placebo-Controlled Trials
Journal of Clinical Medicine
Aromatherapy (inhalational, massage, or oral use) demonstrated superior effects for pain reduction over placebo in primary dysmenorrhea.
Lee MS, Lee HW, Khalil M, Lim HS, Lim HJ Full Article
2018, Jan
The effects of inhalation aromatherapy with Boswellia carterii essential oil on the intensity of labor pain among nulliparous women
Nursing and Midwifery Studies
Inhalation aromatherapy with BC essential oil was found to significantly reduce labor pain intensity in nulliparous women compared to the control group, indicating its potential as a nonpharmacological intervention for pain relief during the first stage of labor.
Esmaelzadeh-Saeieh S, Rahimzadeh M, Khosravi-Dehaghi N, Torkashvand S Full Article
2018, Feb 01
An Update on the Effect of Massage and Inhalation Aromatherapy with Lavender on Labor Pain Relief: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Journal of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Cancer Research
Using aromatherapy with lavender among pregnant women reduces the labor pain.
Mirzaiinajmabadi K, Makvandi S, Mirteimoori M, Sadeghi R, , , , Full Article
2018, Jul 22
Investigation on the Use of Traditional Chinese Medicine for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome in a Nationwide Prescription Database in Taiwan
Journal of Clinical Medicine
The survey results revealed that 89.22% women with newly diagnosed PCOS had received TCM therapy. Jia-Wei-Xiao-Yao-San and Xiang-Fu (Rhizoma Cyperi) were the most commonly used formula and single herb, respectively, in the database. In addition, we found that the top five commonly prescribed single herbs and herbal formulas have shown promise in treating symptoms associated with PCOS.
Liao WT, Chiang JH, Li CJ, Lee MT, Su CC, Yen HR Full Article
2018, May 21
A review of the risk factors, genetics and treatment of endometriosis in Chinese women: a comparative update
Reproductive Health
Although Western medicine has been studied and validated more extensively for the treatment of endometriosis, both TCM and Western medicine are used equally in the treatment of endometriosis in Chinese women.
Dai Y, Li X, Shi J, Leng J Full Article
2018, Feb 17
Treatment of depression with Chai Hu Shu Gan San: a systematic review and meta-analysis of 42 randomized controlled trials
BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies
This review found that Chai Hu Shu Gan San has some advantages in treating depression, especially post-stroke depression and post-partum depression.
Sun Y, Xu X, Zhang J, Chen Y Full Article
2018, Nov 14
The Effect of Berberine on Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Patients with Insulin Resistance (PCOS-IR): A Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review
Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
Berberine (BBR) showed a promising prospect in treating polycystic ovary syndrome patients with insulin resistance (PCOS-IR).
Meng-Fei Li, Xiao-Meng Zhou, Xue-Lian Li Full Article
2018, May
Effects of Gua Sha therapy on perimenopausal syndrome: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Complementary Therapies in Medicine
Preliminary evidence supported the hypothesis that Gua Sha therapy effectively improved the treatment efficacy in patients with perimenopausal syndrome. Additional studies will be required to elucidate optimal frequency and dosage of Gua Sha.
Qing Ren, Xinyu Yu, Fujiu Liao, Xiaofan Chen, Dongmei Yan, Heyun Nie, Jinju Fang, Meng Yang, Xu Zhou Full Article
2018, Sept 20
Effects of Acupuncture on the Outcomes of Assisted Reproductive Technology: An Overview of Systematic Reviews
Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
To conclude, the evidence for acupuncture to increase the success rate of ART is unclear. Thus, physicians should apply the evidence to make decisions about acupuncture for infertile women under ART with caution in clinical practice and consider the actual situation, combined with the patient’s value preferences and economic factors.
Xi, J., Chen, H., Peng, Z., Tang, Z., Song, X., & Xia, Y. Full Article
2018, Oct
Oriental herbal medicine and moxibustion for polycystic ovary syndrome
Medicine
According to current evidence, OHM combined with moxibustion might be beneficial for treating PCOS. Moreover, the treatment might improve the therapeutic effects of conventional WMs including clomiphene citrate, oral contraceptives, and/or metformin. However, the findings should be interpreted with caution, owing to poor methodological quality of the included studies. Further larger, high-quality, rigorous RCTs should be conducted in this regard.
Kwon, Chan-Young, Lee, Boram, Park, Kyoung Sun Full Article
2018, Oct 3
Acupuncture versus antidepressants in the management of postpartum depression: A systematic review
British Journal of Midwifery
Acupuncture in postpartum depression was at least as effective as fluoxetine hydrochloride, supporting the notion that acupuncture may be a safe and effective option.
Akari Komori, David Arthur, Samara Radford, Hsiewe Ying Tan, Li Zheng, Mira An, Rika Umeda, and Zhen Zheng Full Article
2018, Jun 26
Systematic review and meta-analysis of complementary treatments for women with symptomatic endometriosis
International Journal of Gynecology & Obstetrics
Numerous complementary treatments have been used to alleviate the symptoms of endometriosis, but only acupuncture has demonstrated a significant improvement in outcomes. Nevertheless, other approaches demonstrated positive trends toward improving symptoms; this should encourage investigators to design controlled studies to support their applicability.
Mira, T.A., Buen, M.M., Borges, M.G., Yela, D.A. and Benetti-Pinto, C.L. Full Article
2018, Sept 27
Acupuncture Treatment for Chronic Pelvic Pain in Women: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
The results of our review and meta-analysis suggest the effectiveness of AT combined with CT for treating women with CPP compared to use of CT alone. However, current evidence is insufficient to verify the efficacy of AT for CPP because of the small number of RCTs and low methodological quality and heterogeneity of interventions. Therefore, larger, more rigorous and adequately powered multicentre RCTs are needed to provide clinical guidelines for AT in treating female CPP patients.
Sung SH, Sung ADM, Sung HK, An TEB, Kim KH, Park JK Full Article
2018, Nov 1
Does acupuncture the day of embryo transfer affect the clinical pregnancy rate? Systematic review and meta-analysis
JBRA Assisted Reproduction Brazilian Society of Assisted Reproduction
This study showed that acupuncture performed on the day of embryo transfer decreases significantly the risk of achieving a pregnancy.
Schwarze, J.-E., Ceroni, J. P., Ortega-Hrepich, C., Villa, S., Crosby, J., & Pommer, R. Full Article
2018, Oct
Effects of acupuncture during in vitro fertilization or intracytoplasmic sperm injection: An updated systematic review and meta-analysis
European Journal of Integrative Medicine
Acupuncture treatment is beneficial in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) for improving the clinical pregnancy, implantation, and live birth outcomes.
Zhang X, Lee MS, Smith CA, Robinson N, Zhou Y, Wu Y, Mao YY, Qu F Full Article
2018, Jan 3
Management of Menopause Symptoms with Acupuncture: An Umbrella Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine Society for Acupuncture Research
Evidence from RCTs supports the use of acupuncture as an adjunctive or stand-alone treatment for reducing VMSs and improving HRQOL outcomes, with the caveat that observed clinical benefit associated with acupuncture may be due, in part, or in whole to nonspecific effects. The safety of acupuncture in the treatment of VMSs has not been rigorously examined, but there is no clear signal for a significant potential for harm.
Befus D, Coeytaux RR, Goldstein KM, McDuffie JR, Shepherd-Banigan M, Goode AP, Kosinski A, Van Noord MG, Adam SS, Masilamani V, Nagi A, Williams JW Jr. Full Article
2018, Jun
The efficacy and safety of acupuncture in women with primary dysmenorrhea
Medicine
The results of this study suggest that acupuncture might reduce menstrual pain and associated symptoms more effectively compared to no treatment or NSAIDs, and the efficacy could be maintained during a short-term follow-up period. Despite limitations due to the low quality and methodological restrictions of the included studies, acupuncture might be used as an effective and safe treatment for females with primary dysmenorrhea.
Woo HL, Ji HR, Pak YK, Lee H, Heo SJ, Lee JM, Park KS Full Article
2018, Aug 14
Acupuncture and acupressure for premenstrual syndrome
Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews Cochrane
The limited evidence available suggests that acupuncture and acupressure may improve both physical and psychological symptoms of premenstrual syndrome when compared to a sham control.
Armour M, Ee CC, Hao J, Wilson TM, Yao SS, Smith CA Full Article
2018, Oct 1
Effectiveness of Acupuncture in Postpartum Depression: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Acupuncture in Medicine British Medical Acupuncture Society
The result of this meta-analysis demonstrated that the acupuncture group had a significantly greater overall effective rate compared with the control group. Moreover, acupuncture significantly increased oestradiol levels compared with the control group. Acupuncture appears to be effective for postpartum depression with respect to certain outcomes.
Li S, Zhong W, Peng W, Jiang G Full Article
2018, Nov
A systematic review of acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine for postpartum depression
Complementary Therapies in Medicine
Low quality evidence suggested that CHM alone or combined with antidepressants as add-on therapy may reduce symptoms of depression compared to placebo or antidepressants on the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS). There was no statistically significant difference between acupuncture and antidepressants. Adverse events were rare. CHM reduced PPD symptoms greater than placebo or antidepressants. Acupuncture was neither superior nor inferior to antidepressants.
Yang L, Di YM, Shergis JL, Li Y, Zhang AL, Lu C, Guo X, Xue CC Full Article
2017, Sept
Recommendations of the Spanish Menopause Society on the consumption of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids by postmenopausal women
Maturitas European Menopause and Andropause Society
The study concluded that LCO3-PUFAs have various beneficial effects in postmenopausal women, including a decrease in triglycerides, antiarrhythmic effects, reduction in blood pressure, improvement in depressive and psychotic symptoms, and no increased risk of cancer.
Sánchez-Borrego R, von Schacky C, Osorio MJA, Llaneza P, Pinto X, Losa F, Navarro MC, Lubián D, Mendoza N Full Article
2017, Aug 08
Wenjing decoction (herbal medicine) for the treatment of primary dysmenorrhea: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Archives of Gynecology and Obstetrics Deutsche Gesellschaft für Gynäkologie und Geburtshilfe
The results supported the clinical use of Wenjing decoction for the treatment of primary dysmenorrhea.
Gao L, Jia C, Zhang H, Ma C Full Article
2017, Aug 31
Effects of acupoint-stimulation for the treatment of primary dysmenorrhoea compared with NSAIDs: a systematic review and meta-analysis of 19 RCTs
BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies
The study indicated that acupoint-stimulation can relieve pain effectively for primary dysmenorrhoe patients. Compared with NASIDS group patients, acupuncture patients had less side effects and it offers advantages in increasing the overall effectiveness
Xu, Y., Zhao, W., Li, T. et al. Full Article
2017, Oct 12
Acupuncture May Improve Quality of Life in Menopausal Women: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Complementary Medicine Research
Both the total score and the subgroup analysis strongly indicated that acupuncture can alleviate menopause-related symptoms. However, the evidence is not very strong. Thus, further studies about the efficiency of acupuncture on menopausal symptoms based on well-designed trials are needed.
Li W, Luo Y, Fu W, Lei R. Full Article
2017, Aug 22
Effect of acupuncture on hot flush and menopause symptoms in breast cancer- A systematic review and meta-analysis
PLOS One Public Library of Science
Acupuncture significantly alleviated menopause symptoms, but had no effect on hot flush. Breast cancer patients concerned about the adverse effects of hormone therapy should consider acupuncture. Further large-scale studies that also measure biomarkers or cytokines may help to elucidate the mechanism by which acupuncture alleviates menopause symptoms in patients with breast cancer.
Chien TJ, Hsu CH, Liu CY, Fang CJ. Full Article
2017, Jun 1
Effectiveness of Acupuncture in Women with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome Undergoing in Vitro Fertilisation Or Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Acupuncture in Medicine British Medical Acupuncture Society
This review indicated that acupuncture may increase the clinical pregnancy rate and ongoing pregnancy rate and decrease the risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) in women with PCOS undergoing IVF or ICSI.
Jo J, Lee YJ Full Article
2017, Jun
Acupuncture for polycystic ovarian syndrome: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Medicine
This systematic review and meta-analysis suggests that the evidence base for the use of acupuncture for improving ovulation and menstruation rates and other hormonal changes in women with PCOS is weak. Given the poor reporting and methodological flaws of existing studies, large-scale, long-term RCTs with rigorous methodological input are needed to clarify the role of acupuncture in this population.
Jo, J., Lee, Y. J., & Lee, H. Full Article
2017, Oct 27
Effects of acupuncture for the treatment of endometriosis-related pain: A systematic review and meta-analysis
PLOS One Public Library of Science
Few randomised, blinded clinical trials have addressed the efficacy of acupuncture in treating endometriosis-related pain. Nonetheless, the current literature suggests that acupuncture reduces pain and serum CA-125 levels, regardless of the control intervention used.
Xu Y, Zhao W, Li T, Zhao Y, Bu H, Song S Full Article
2016, Jul 25
Acupuncture for hot flashes in women with breast cancer: A systematic review
Journal of Cancer Research and Therapeutics Association of Radiation Oncologists of India
Acupuncture seems to be an effective therapy for HFs in women with BC; however, there was insufficient evidence to support the efficacy of acupuncture. However, the results should be interpreted cautiously, because of the poor quality and small number of included studies.
Chen YP, Liu T, Peng YY, Wang YP, Chen H, Fan YF, Zhang L Full Article
2016, Jan 13
Effect of acustimulation on nausea and vomiting and on hyperemesis in pregnancy: a systematic review of Western and Chinese literature
BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies
Although there is some evidence for an effect of acustimulation on nausea and vomiting or hyperemesis in pregnancy, results are not conclusive. Future clinical trials with a rigorous design and large sample sizes should be conducted to evaluate the efficacy and safety of these interventions for NVP and HG.
Van den Heuvel, E., Goossens, M., Vanderhaegen, H. et al. Full Article
2016, Apr 18
Acupuncture for dysmenorrhoea
Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews Cochrane
There is insufficient evidence to demonstrate whether or not acupuncture or acupressure are effective in treating primary dysmenorrhoea, and for most comparisons no data were available on adverse events. The quality of the evidence was low or very low for all comparisons. The main limitations were risk of bias, poor reporting, inconsistency and risk of publication bias
Smith CA, Armour M, Zhu X, Li X, Lu ZY, Song J Full Article
2016, Nov
Effectiveness of SP6 (Sanyinjiao) acupressure for relief of primary dysmenorrhea symptoms: A systematic review with meta- and sensitivity analyses
Complementary Therapies in Medicine
SP6 acupressure appears to be effective when delivered by trained personnel for some primary dysmenorrhea (PD) symptoms. Findings suggest that self-administered acupressure shows promise for the alleviation of PD symptoms.
Abaraogu UO, Igwe SE, Tabansi-Ochiogu CS Full Article
2016, Feb
The effects of acupuncture on polycystic ovary syndrome: A systematic review and meta-analysis
European Journal of Integrative Medicine
This article highlighted the efficacy of acupuncture in significant improvements decrease in BMI and LH in women with PCOS.
Qu F, Wu Y, Hu XY, Barry JA, Zhou J, Wang FF, Ye YH, Zhang R, Han SP, Han JS, Li R, Taw MB, Hardiman PJ, Robinson N Full Article
2016, Sept
The rules of acupoint-selection of acupuncture for polycystic ovary syndrome based on data mining
World Journal of Acupuncture-Moxibustion World Federation of Acupuncture-Moxibustion Societies
Our study indicates that modern acupuncture treatment for PCOS is based on selection of specific acupoints according to traditional Chinese acupuncture theory. Points of spleen meridian, stomach meridian and conception vessel are chosen frequently which are most located on the abdomen and the lower limbs. Specific points used most are the front-mu points, the he-sea points, matching points and the back-shu points.
YU C, KONG L, MA C, SHEN F, YAO GJ, XIONG Y, ZHOU H Full Article
2016, Aug 15
Effectiveness of Traditional Chinese Acupuncture versus Sham Acupuncture: a Systematic Review
Revista Latino-Americana de Enfermagem University of Sao Paulo at Ribeirao Preto College of Nursing
The evidence gathered was not sufficient to affirm the effectiveness of traditional acupuncture compared with sham acupuncture.
Carlos, Luís et al. Full Article
2016, Mar
Herbal medicine (Danggui Shaoyao San) for treating primary dysmenorrhea: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Maturitas European Menopause and Andropause Society
Our systematic review and meta-analysis provided suggestive evidence of the superiority of DSS over analgesics or placebo for dysmenorrhea. The quality of evidence for this finding was low to moderate because of a high risk of bias.
Hye Won Lee, Ji Hee Jun, Ki-Jung Kil, Byong-Seob Ko, Choong Hwan Lee, Myeong Soo Lee Full Article
2016, Mar 20
Is acupuncture effective in the treatment of pain in endometriosis?
Journal of Pain Research American Society of Pain & Neuroscience
This study indicated that acupuncture is effective in treating endometriosis related pain. Patients reported to have having reduced long-term pain conditions.
Lund I, Lundeberg T Full Article
2016, May
Effects of Acupuncture on Menopause-Related Symptoms in Breast Cancer Survivors
Cancer Nursing
Acupuncture yielded small-size effects on reducing hot-flash frequency and the severity of menopause-related symptoms.
Chiu, Hsiao-Yean; Shyu, Yuh-Kae; Chang, Pi-Chen, Tsai, Pei-Shan Full Article
2016, Mar
Acupuncture to Reduce Sleep Disturbances in Perimenopausal and Postmenopausal Women: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Obstetrics & Gynecology American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists
The study highlighted the importance of acupuncture in balancing out sleep patterns and sex hormone levels in women experiencing menopause-related sleep disturbances
Chiu, Hsiao-Yean RN, PhD; Hsieh, Yu-Jung RN, MSN; Tsai, Pei-Shan RN Full Article
2016, Dec 19
Therapeutic effect of acupuncture on the outcomes of in vitro fertilization: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Archives of Gynecology and Obstetrics Deutsche Gesellschaft für Gynäkologie und Geburtshilfe
This review shows that acupuncture improves the clinical pregnancy rate among women undergoing IVF. Optimal effect can be achieved with electroacupuncture, especially in Asian area.
Qian, Y., Xia, X.-R., Ochin, H., Huang, C., Gao, C., Gao, L., Cui, Y.-G., Liu, J.-Y., & Meng, Y. Full Article
2016, Mar
Acupuncture to Reduce Sleep Disturbances in Perimenopausal and Postmenopausal Women
Obstetrics & Gynecology American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists
Acupuncture is associated with a significant reduction in sleep disturbances in women experiencing menopause-related sleep disturbances. Our findings suggest that acupuncture should be adopted as part of a multimodal approach for improving sleep disturbances in perimenopausal and postmenopausal women.
Chiu HY, Hsieh YJ, Tsai PS. Full Article
2016, Oct 19
Network Meta-Analysis of the Efficacy of Acupuncture, Alpha-blockers and Antibiotics on Chronic Prostatitis/Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome
Scientific Reports
Overall, rank tests and safety analyses indicate that electro-acupuncture/acupuncture may be recommended for the treatment of CP/CPPS.
Qin, Z., Wu, J., Tian, J. et al. Full Article
2016, Jan 06
The efficacy of acupuncture in managing patients with chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome: A systemic review and meta-analysis
Neurourology and Urodynamics
Acupuncture has promising efficacy for patients with CP/CPPS. Compared to standard medical treatment, it has better efficacy. Thus, it may also serve as a standard treatment option when available.
Chang SC, Hsu CH, Hsu CK, Yang SSD, Chang SJ Full Article
2016, Mar
Systematic Review of Acupuncture for Chronic Prostatitis/Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome
Medicine
Overall, current evidence supports acupuncture as an effective treatment for CP/CPPS-induced symptoms, particularly in relieving pain. Based on the meta-analysis, acupuncture is superior to sham acupuncture in improving symptoms and Qof. Acupuncture might be similar to medicine (Levofloxacinand, Ibuprofen, and Tamsulosin) in its long-term effects, but evidence was limited due to high ROB among included trials as well as potential heterogeneity. Acupuncture is associated with rare and slightly adverse events.
Qin Z, Wu J, Zhou J, Liu Z. Full Article
2016, Oct 17
Does acupuncture have a role in the treatment of threatened miscarriage? Findings from a feasibility randomised trial and semi-structured participant interviews
BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth
Forty women were successfully randomised. For women receiving acupuncture there was a statically significant reduction with threatened miscarriage symptoms including bleeding, cramping and back pain compared with the control. Acupuncture was a feasible intervention and reduced threatened miscarriage symptoms when compared to a touch intervention. Further research is required to further explore acupuncture use for this common complication and whether it can reduce the incidence of miscarriage.
Betts D, Smith CA, Dahlen HG. Full Article
2015, May 18
Effectiveness of Acupuncture for Primary Ovarian Insufficiency: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
The current evidence on acupuncture for POI is insufficient to draw a firm conclusion due to scarcity of studies with a low risk of bias and likely publication bias. Further rigorously designed and conducted studies are needed to confirm the effectiveness and safety of acupuncture in patients with POI
Jo J, Lee YJ, Lee H Full Article
2015, Jan 3
Chinese herbal medicine for female infertility: an updated meta-analysis
Complementary Therapies in Medicine
Our review suggests that management of female infertility with Chinese herbal medicine can improve pregnancy rates 2-fold within a 3-6 month period compared with Western medical fertility drug therapy. In addition, fertility indicators such as ovulation rates, cervical mucus score, biphasic basal body temperature, and appropriate thickness of the endometrial lining were positively influenced by CHM therapy, indicating an ameliorating physiological effect conducive for a viable pregnancy.
Ried K. Full Article
2015, Jan
The Role of Acupuncture in in vitro Fertilization: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Gynecologic and Obstetric Investigation
This study showed that acupuncture increased pregnancy rates when performed at follicle phase, 25 min before and after embryo transfer, or 30 min after embryo transfer and after the implantation phase in the IVF process.
Shen C.,Wu M., Shu D., Zhao X. and Gao Y. Full Article
2015, Feb
Effects of acupuncture on menopause-related symptoms and quality of life in women in natural menopause: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Menopause The North American Menopause Society
This meta-analysis confirms that acupuncture improves hot flash frequency and severity, menopause-related symptoms, and quality of life (in the vasomotor domain) in women experiencing natural menopause.
Chiu HY, Pan CH, Shyu YK, Han BC, Tsai PS. Full Article
2015, Apr 01
Acupuncture for the Treatment of Vulvodynia: A Randomized Wait-List Controlled Pilot Study
The Journal of Sexual Medicine The International Society for Sexual Medicine
This was the first randomized controlled pilot study to examine the use of acupuncture for the treatment of vulvodynia. The acupuncture protocol was feasible and in this small sample appeared to reduce vulvar pain and dyspareunia with an increase in overall sexual function for women with vulvodynia. This study should be replicated in a larger double-blinded randomized controlled trial.
Schlaeger JM, Xu N, Mejta CL, Park CG, Wilkie DJ Full Article
2015, Oct
As Acupressure Decreases Pain, Acupuncture May Improve Some Aspects of Quality of Life for Women with Primary Dysmenorrhea: A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis
Journal of Acupuncture and Meridian Studies Medical Association of Pharmacopuncture Institute
Acupressure showed evidence of pain relief while acupuncture improved both the mental and the physical components of quality of life. In conclusion, physiotherapists should consider using acupuncture and acupressure to treat primary dysmenorrhea, but a need exists for higher quality, randomized, blinded, sham-controlled trials with adequate sample sizes to establish clearly the effects of these modalities.
Abaraogu UO, Tabansi-Ochuogu CS Full Article
2015, Sept 30
Interventions for preventing and treating low-back and pelvic pain during pregnancy
Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews Cochrane
There is low‐quality evidence that exercise (any exercise on land or in water), may reduce pregnancy‐related low‐back pain and moderate‐ to low‐quality evidence suggesting that any exercise improves functional disability and reduces sick leave more than usual prenatal care. Evidence from single studies suggests that acupuncture or craniosacral therapy improves pregnancy‐related pelvic pain, and osteomanipulative therapy or a multi‐modal intervention (manual therapy, exercise and education) may also be of benefit. Clinical heterogeneity precluded pooling of results in many cases. Statistical heterogeneity was substantial in all but three meta‐analyses, which did not improve following sensitivity analyses. Publication bias and selective reporting cannot be ruled out. Further evidence is very likely to have an important impact on our confidence in the estimates of effect and change the estimates. Studies would benefit from the introduction of an agreed classification system that can be used to categorise women according to their presenting symptoms, so that treatment can be tailored accordingly.
Liddle SD, Pennick V Full Article
2014, Jan 02
Chinese herbal medicine Guizhi Fuling Formula for treatment of uterine fibroids: a systematic review of randomised clinical trials
BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies
Guizhi Fuling Formula appears to have additional benefit based on mifepristone treatment in reducing volume of fibroids.
Chen NN, Han M, Yang H, Yang GY, Wang YY, Wu XK, Liu JP Full Article
2014, Jan 10
Effects and treatment methods of acupuncture and herbal medicine for premenstrual syndrome/premenstrual dysphoric disorder: systematic review
BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies
In both acupuncture and herbal medical interventions, there have been no serious adverse events reported, proving the safety of the interventions while most of the interventions provided over 50% relief of symptoms associated with PMS/PMDD.
Jang SH, Kim DI, Choi MS Full Article
2014, Jun 30
Acupuncture for polycystic ovary syndrome: A systematic review and meta-analysis
2014 IEEE Workshop on Electronics, Computer and Applications Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers
Acupuncture was safe in the treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome. The total effective rate of acupuncture group was better than controlled group and the difference had statistically significance. The literature review shows that acupuncture is effective in the treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome, but it is not definite due to relatively low level of evidence. More high quality evidences are needed.
Hong Ma, Xiaohong Quan, Jianwei Li, Bin and Xiuhua Chen Full Article
2014, Dec 18
Herbal medicine for the management of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and associated oligo/amenorrhoea and hyperandrogenism; a review of the laboratory evidence for effects with corroborative clinical findings
BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies
Preclinical and clinical studies provide evidence that six herbal medicines may have beneficial effects for women with oligo/amenorrhea, hyperandrogenism and PCOS.
Susan Arentz, Jason Anthony Abbott, Caroline Anne Smith & Alan Bensoussan Full Article
2014, Jun 1
The Safety of Acupuncture during Pregnancy: A Systematic Review
Acupuncture in Medicine British Medical Acupuncture Society
Acupuncture during pregnancy appears to be associated with few adverse events when correctly applied.
Park J, Sohn Y, White AR, Lee H. Full Article
2014, Mar 9
A systematic review investigating the effectiveness of Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) for the management of low back and/or pelvic pain (LBPP) in pregnancy
Journal of Advanced Nursing
Amongst Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM), acupuncture showed both clinically important changes and statistically significant results for management of low back and/or pelvic pain (LBPP) in pregnancy.
Close C, Sinclair M, Liddle SD, Madden E, McCullough JE, Hughes C. Full Article
2013, Mar 19
Hop Extracts and Hop Substances in Treatment of Menopausal Complaints
Neuropediatrics
Hop extract and 8-PN are promising candidates for relieving climacteric symptoms, but more data on safety and efficacy is needed.
Keiler A, Zierau O, Kretzschmar G Full Article
2013, Dec
Efficacy and Safety of Needle Acupuncture for Treating Gynecologic and Obstetric Disorders: An Overview
Medical Acupuncture American Academy of Medical Acupuncture
Evidence for the efficacy of needle acupuncture for treating the disorders showed promising results for reducing pelvic and back pain during pregnancy and climacteric vasomotor symptoms.
Selva Olid A, Martinez Zapata MJ, Sola I, Stojanovic Z, Uriona Tuma SM, Bonfill Cosp X. Full Article
2013, Jan
Systematic Review of Randomized Clinical Trials of Acupressure Therapy for Primary Dysmenorrhea
Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
Acupressure improved pain measured with VAS (−1.41 cm 95% CI [−1.61, −1.21]), SF-MPQ at the 3-month followup (WMD −2.33, 95% CI [−4.11, −0.54]) and 6-month followup (WMD −4.67, 95% CI [−7.30, −2.04]), and MDQ at the 3-month followup (WMD −2.31, 95% CI [−3.74, −0.87]) and 6-month followup (WMD −4.67, 95% CI [−7.30, −2.04]). All trials did not report adverse events. These results were limited by the methodological flaws of trials.
Jiang H, Ni S, Li J, Liu M, Li J, Cui X, Zhang B Full Article
2013, Jun 27
The effects of acupuncture on rates of clinical pregnancy among women undergoing in vitro fertilization: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Human Reproduction Update European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology
In this study, only the baseline pregnancy rate variable showed a statistically significant subgroup effect and appeared to explain most of the heterogeneity in the results for the primary outcome measure (clinical pregnancy). No statistically significant pooled benefits of one to three sessions of acupuncture adjuvant to IVF, across all trials was found.
Manheimer, E. ., van der Windt, D., Cheng, K., Stafford, K., Liu, J. ., Tierney, J., Lao, L. ., Berman, B. ., Langenberg, P., & Bouter, L. Full Article
2013, Jul 26
Acupuncture and assisted reproductive technology
Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews Cochrane
This updated review reports no evidence of overall benefit of acupuncture in improving live birth rate (LBR) when acupuncture was performed around the time of oocyte retrieval or on and around the day of ET. However, in studies with controls without sham or needling, women who had acupuncture on and around the day of ET had a higher LBR than the control. Although there was no evidence that acupuncture had an effect on miscarriage rates or other treatment side effects but it is advised to practice safely.
Cheong YC, Dix S, Hung Yu Ng E, Ledger WL, Farquhar C Full Article
2013, Jul
Acupuncture for menopausal hot flushes
Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews Cochrane
We found insufficient evidence to determine whether acupuncture is effective for controlling menopausal vasomotor symptoms. When we compared acupuncture with sham acupuncture, there was no evidence of a significant difference in their effect on menopausal vasomotor symptoms. When we compared acupuncture with no treatment there appeared to be a benefit from acupuncture, but acupuncture appeared to be less effective than HT. These findings should be treated with great caution as the evidence was low or very low quality and the studies comparing acupuncture versus no treatment or HT were not controlled with sham acupuncture or placebo HT. Data on adverse effects were lacking.
Dodin S, Blanchet C, Marc I, Ernst E, Wu T, Vaillancourt C, et al. Full Article
2013, Jan
Acupuncture for Treating Anxiety and Depression in Women: A Clinical Systematic Review
Medical Acupuncture American Academy of Medical Acupuncture
With respect to six reviewed studies, there is high-level evidence to support the use of acupuncture for treating major depressive disorder in pregnancy.
Sniezek DP, Siddiqui IJ. Full Article
2012, Mar 22
Pain relief assessment by aromatic essential oil massage on outpatients with primary dysmenorrhea: A randomized, double‐blind clinical trial
Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Research The Asia and Oceania Federation of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology
Aromatic oil massage provided relief for outpatients with primary dysmenorrhea and reduced the duration of menstrual pain in the essential oil group.
Ou MC, Hsu TF, Lai AC, Lin YT, Lin CC Full Article
2012, Jan 12
Effects of acupuncture on pregnancy rates in women undergoing in vitro fertilization: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Fertility and Sterility
The study indicated that acupuncture improves clinical pregnancy rate and live birth rate among women undergoing IVF. The acupuncture group showed higher biochemical pregnancy rate and live birth rates compared to the control group.
Zheng, C. H., Huang, G. Y., Zhang, M. M., & Wang, W. Full Article
2012, May 17
Effects of Acupuncture on the Outcomes of In Vitro Fertilization: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine Society for Acupuncture Research
This study did not find any significant benefits of acupuncture to improve the outcomes of in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) treatment.
Qu, F., Zhou, J., & Ren, R.-X. Full Article
2012, Mar 22
Acupuncture as a therapeutic treatment option for threatened miscarriage
BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies
While it is known that 50-70% of miscarriages occur due to chromosomal abnormalities, the potential for therapeutic intervention amongst the remaining percentage of women remains unknown. Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) therapies have the potential to provide supportive care for women presenting with threatened miscarriage. Within fertility research, acupuncture demonstrates beneficial hormonal responses with decreased miscarriage rates, raising the possibility acupuncture may promote specific beneficial effects in early pregnancy. With the lack of current medical options for women presenting with threatened miscarriage it is timely to examine the possible treatment benefits of providing CAM therapies such as acupuncture.
Betts D, Smith CA, Hannah DG. Full Article
2011, Jun
Effect of Gui-zhi-fu-ling-wan on Hot Flashes in Young Patients: A Retrospective Case Series
Journal of Acupuncture and Meridian Studies Medical Association of Pharmacopuncture Institute
Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan herbal decoction shows promising results in improving hot flashes in young patients with a relatively low percentage of reported adverse events, suggesting a potential alternative to hormone replacement therapy.
Cho KH, Kim YS, Jung WS, Kim TH Full Article
2011, May 24
Acupuncture for premenstrual syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials
BJOG: An International Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology Royal College of Obstetricians & Gynaecologists
Although acupuncture seems promising for symptom improvement in women with PMS, important methodological flaws in the included studies weaken the evidence. Considering the potential of acupuncture, further rigorous studies are needed.
S-Y Kim, H-J Park, H Lee, H Lee Full Article
2011, Sept 07
Acupuncture for pain in endometriosis
Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews Cochrane
There is not enough evidence to support the effectiveness of acupuncture for pain in endometriosis based on the results of the single RCT included in this review. While the results of this trial (Xiang 2002) did show that auricular acupuncture decreased pain from endometriosis in comparison to Chinese herbal medicine, the overall low‐quality of methodology makes broad implications for practice difficult to determine.
Zhu X, Hamilton KD, McNicol ED Full Article
2011, May 24
Acupuncture for premenstrual syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials
BJOG: An International Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology Royal College of Obstetricians & Gynaecologists
Although acupuncture seems promising for symptom improvement in women with PMS, important methodological flaws in the included studies weaken the evidence. Considering the potential of acupuncture, further rigorous studies are needed.
Kim SY, Park HJ, Lee H, Lee H Full Article
2010, Apr
Efficacy of acupuncture in management of premenstrual syndrome: A systematic review
Complementary Therapies in Medicine
The study highlighted a significant difference in reduction of PMS symptoms for acupuncture treatment compared with pharmacologic treatment. Patients found acupuncture to have less side effects than taking pharmacologic treatment (such as progesterone, antidepressants or pyridoxine).
Seung-HunChoaJongwooKimb Full Article
2010, Jun 8
Acupuncture for pain relief in labour: a systematic review and meta-analysis
BJOG: An International Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology Royal College of Obstetricians & Gynaecologists
The evidence from RCTs does not support the use of acupuncture for controlling labour pain. The primary studies are diverse and often flawed. Further research seems warranted.
S-H Cho, H Lee, E Ernst Full Article
2010, Dec 31
Systematic review of clinical trials of acupuncture-related therapies for primary dysmenorrhea
Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica Nordic Federation of Societies of Obstetrics and Gynecology
Acupuncture may be more effective for patients with dysmenorrhea compared with ibuprofen or analgesic drugs. However, the low methodologic quality and small sample size do not have convincing evidence for moxibustion or acupressure is as effective as other interventions.
Yang, H., Liu, C.-Z., Chen, X., Ma, L.-X., Xie, J.-P., Guo, N.-N., Ma, Z.-B., Zheng, Y.-Y., Zhu, J., & Liu, J.-P. Full Article
2005, Jan
Comparing the Effects of Estrogen and an Herbal Medicine on Peripheral Blood Flow in Post-menopausal Women with Hot Flashes: Hormone Replacement Therapy and Gui-Zhi-Fu-Ling-Wan, a Kampo Medicine
The American Journal of Chinese Medicine
Post-menopausal women with hot flashes had significantly higher blood flow under the jaw compared to those without hot flashes, with herbal therapy increasing blood flow in the lower extremities whereas HRT decreased it, suggesting that herbal therapy may be more effective in treating certain menopausal symptoms.
Ushiroyama T, Ikeda A, Sakuma K, Ueki M Full Article
It is by virtue of the twelve channels that human life exists, that disease arises, that human beings can be treated and illness cured. The twelve channels are where beginners start and masters end.