24 Sep 2026
By: Yi TCM Admin
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a term which has now been updated to Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS), is one of the common endocrine diseases in women of reproductive age. While its typical clinical manifestations include irregular menstruation and hyperandrogenism, the hormonal imbalance caused by PCOS may decrease fertility and inhibit ovulation, which may reduce the chances of pregnancy.
According to Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), PCOS is understood through patterns of kidney deficiency as well as phlegm-dampness accumulation and blood stasis. Thus, TCM approaches focus on restoring balance of the reproductive essence, addressing pathological factors to support reproductive health.
PCOS is an endocrine and metabolic disorder that may be caused by an imbalance of reproductive hormones. In women with PCOS, the egg may not develop properly or it may not be released during ovulation. Common signs and symptoms of PCOS include:
PCOS may affect fertility due to an increased level of androgens and insulin that hinder the development and release of eggs from the ovaries. This may lead to an irregular or absent ovulation, which may make it harder to conceive.
In TCM, PCOS is understood as a disruption in “Kidney-Tian Gui-Chong Ren-Uterus” (肾-天癸-冲任-胞宫) axis, which determines menstrual health and fertility. The process of healthy egg development and release relies on the Kidneys, where the Jing or Kidney essence is needed to nurture and mature a follicle. Deficiencies in the Kidney, along with a weakened Spleen, may obstruct the flow of Qi and Blood, contributing to blockages in the reproductive axis which decrease fertility.
In TCM theory, PCOS may be caused by an imbalance between the kidney, Tian Gui (天癸), and uterus. Since the Tian Gui is essential to support women’s menstrual cycle and pregnancy, a disturbance in Tian Gui can lead to reproductive problems such as PCOS. TCM for women’s fertility treatments are thus aimed at:
As the kidneys are considered the foundation of reproductive health, kidney deficiencies may be addressed through TCM approaches such as kidney-tonifying herbs and acupuncture. These may help strengthen reproductive essence and support ovarian function.
TCM views phlegm-dampness as a key pathological factor in PCOS, contributing to irregular menstruation and anovulation. Phlegm-resolving herbs and acupuncture points may help reduce dampness, which may support internal balance in PCOS patients.
According to TCM theory, blood stasis is often linked to PCOS, as it causes an obstructed Qi and Blood flow to the kidneys and pelvis region. TCM treatments may help promote circulation to optimise the reproductive environment, which may help increase the chances of pregnancy outcomes.
Stress and anxiety are common in women with PCOS, which may worsen Qi stagnation. TCM practitioners may provide lifestyle guidance including dietary adjustments and exercise routines which may help reduce stress, which has been positively associated with PCOS management.
Some TCM approaches that are prescribed by a qualified physician can be integrated into your existing PCOS treatment. However, the integration depends on each individual’s condition, and the suitability must be assessed case by case. Some research shows that the complex nature of PCOS may make the effect of single treatments more limited, and an integrative strategy may help improve clinical outcomes.
Some Research shows that combining Western medicine treatment with TCM PCOS treatments such as acupuncture and TCM herbs has been found to help improve endometrial thickness and shape, promoting recovery of the menstrual cycle, inducing ovulation, and increasing endometrial permeability.
Getting a PCOS diagnosis may be disheartening, especially for women who are trying to conceive. Working with a registered TCM fertility physician for your particular condition may help incorporate a tailored approach into your existing treatment plan, addressing the internal imbalances which may interfere with your reproductive health. Moreover, a TCM physician can help advise on beneficial dietary and lifestyle modifications.
If you are seeking TCM PCOS support, Yi TCM is here to help you on your fertility journey. Schedule a personalised consultation at our TCM fertility treatment in Singapore today to see if TCM may be suitable for you!
Chen, H., Deng, C., Meng, Z., & Meng, S. (2023). Effects of TCM on polycystic ovary syndrome and its cellular endocrine mechanism. Frontiers in endocrinology, 14, 956772. https://doi.org/10.3389/fendo.2023.956772
Rosenfield R. L. (2015). The Polycystic Ovary Morphology-Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Spectrum. Journal of pediatric and adolescent gynecology, 28(6), 412–419. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpag.2014.07.016
Zhu, Y., Ma, Y., Ma, R., Li, Z., & Pan, L. (2025). Traditional Chinese medicine treatment for ovulation induction efficacy in PCOS patients after follicle aspiration. Current Problems in Surgery, 73, Article 101919. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cpsurg.2025.101919
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