Acupuncture for premature ovarian failure

1. Overview

Premature ovarian failure is a lack of eggs left in the ovaries in women of fertile age. Premature ovarian failure is also known as premature ovarian insufficiency.

Premature ovarian failure is not a common problem amongst women affecting about 1% of woman under 40 years of age. A diagnose of premature ovarian failure can be very emotional and difficult to accept.

2. Symptoms

The symptoms of premature ovarian failure include:

3. Causes

The causes of premature ovarian failure include:

Genetics
Prolonged emotional stress
Poor diet
Western medical drugs
Repeated miscarriages or terminations
Repeated IVF cycles
Smoking

Women who smoke are likely to have premature ovarian insufficiency 3-5 years earlier than normal. This is caused by catechostrogens that block estrogen. Some women may develop autoantibodies to thyroid, adrenal and ovarian endocrine tissues, which may lead to ovarian failure. In such cases, hormone therapy and acupuncture can restart ovulation.

4. Treatment for premature ovarian failure

It is possible to treat premature ovarian failure with the use of acupuncture, Chinese herbs, dietary changes, lifestyle improvements and specific supplements.

Acupuncture for premature ovarian failure

Both acupuncture and electroacupuncture have been shown in research to reduce and treat premature ovarian failure

Chinese herbs for premature ovarian failure

Chinese herbal medicine has been shown in research to treat premature ovarian failure. Specific Chinese herbal formulas such as Jin Feng Wan can help treat premature ovarian failure.