Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine for PCOS in San Francisco

Jun 27

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) can be a challenging constellation of symptoms to tackle -- especially when you’re navigating an endocrinologist, gynecologist, and potentially a dermatologist, too.

Furthermore, it sometimes takes years for people to get their diagnosis…all while they’re still dealing with symptoms.

I regularly see clients navigating the symptoms of PCOS, and you’re definitely not alone. Thankfully, holistic healing traditions like Chinese Medicine offer gentle support for these issues.

What is PCOS?

PCOS is an endocrine disorder affecting roughly 1 in 10 women worldwide. It’s characterized by irregular menstrual cycles, elevated androgen levels, and cysts on the ovaries. Symptoms vary but often include:

Irregular or absent periods
Acne
Weight challenges
Hair thinning or excess facial hair
Fertility challenges
Mood swings and fatigue

My Unique Approach to PCOS Care

First of all, every PCOS case is different, so I take time to explore who you are. What led you here? What have you tried in the past? What worked, and what didn’t?

Second of all, most people with PCOS are told by their doctors to just lose weight. Weight is just a symptom…not a solution. I just haven’t seen it work.

Third, I’m not going to recommend a bunch of expensive supplements. Frankly, I’ve just found acupuncture and custom herbal medicine to be more effective.

Essentially, the endocrine system is subtle, with big results. So I like to work with modalities that have a similar flavor.

Finally, there are lots of practitioners who specialize in women’s health, and a few who specilize in skin. This is a one-stop-shop for both, where we’re able to tackle both the skin challenges of PCOS and any hormonal or fertility concerns you may have. I can even suggest pregnancy-safe skincare you can use while trying to conceive.

What If I Suspect PCOS… but My Labs Aren’t Conclusive?

Honestly -- I hear this all the time. You suspect you might have PCOS, but labs are inconclusive, and you can’t get an ultrasound to confirm your suspicions.

Traditional Chinese Medicine looks beyond lab numbers to the signs your body is giving: irregular cycles, skin changes, emotional shifts, and physical symptoms. Through careful assessment, acupuncture, and herbal medicine, we can work to support your body’s balance even when Western lab tests aren’t helpful.

I believe you feel something’s wrong. And I’ll work with you to bring things into balance.

How Acupuncture Helps PCOS

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), PCOS is often seen as a disruption in the flow of Qi and blood, kidney deficiency, and imbalances in the liver and spleen systems. Acupuncture works by:

Regulating menstrual cycles and promoting ovulation
Reducing androgen levels, helping clear acne and excess hair growth
Improving insulin sensitivity, which supports fluid metabolism
Calming stress and emotional imbalance, a crucial factor in hormonal health
Enhancing fertility by improving blood flow to the reproductive organs

At my practice in San Francisco, I customize your treatments to your constitution and the pattern you present.

The Role of Herbal Medicine

Herbal formulas in TCM can be also customized to nourish the kidneys, regulate hormones, clear heat (which causes acne and inflammation), and support metabolism.

I work with each client to create a personalized herbal formula that complements acupuncture treatments and supports your overall health.

Not interested in herbs?

No problem. We can talk about certain supportive foods, teas…whatever you’re interested in, I’ve probably got a recommendation. Because at the end of the day, I care about helping you build habits that produce results. Not what theoretically might work.