Acupuncture for Menstrual, Hormonal and Pelvic Health

Hormonal shifts, painful periods, or irregular cycles? Acupuncture offers gentle support for menstrual and hormonal health. We work with people across all life stages—whether you’re managing PMS, PCOS, or transitioning through perimenopause. Many people live with menstrual pain, irregular cycles, or hormonal changes that affect daily life, relationships, and work.

At The Acupuncture Pregnancy Clinic, we offer supportive care using acupuncture and Chinese Medicine for reproductive and hormonal health across all life stages — from adolescence and fertility to perimenopause and menopause. Our care is collaborative and person-centred.

We regularly see patients for:

• PMS (Premenstrual Syndrome)
• PCOS and irregular cycles
• Endometriosis and pelvic pain
• Painful intercourse and vaginismus
• Perimenopause, and  menopause
• Cycle irregularity or unexplained infertility
• Luteal phase or immune-related factors

Our approach is holistic. Treatment plans may include acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, nutrition, and lifestyle guidance tailored to your needs. We often work in tandem with gynaecologists, fertility specialists, and allied health teams so you have safe, coordinated options.

Fertility, Reproductive Health & Chinese Medicine

Chinese medicine has supported reproductive and gynaecological health for over 2,000 years. Early gynaecological texts (c. 200 BCE) described care for menstrual disorders, infertility, pregnancy, and postnatal recovery. Over the centuries, detailed case records and manuals focused on reproductive health, making it one of the most documented areas of Chinese medicine.

Today, this tradition sits alongside modern science. Over the last 25 years, hundreds of clinical trials and systematic reviews have investigated acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine for fertility, IVF support, endometriosis, PCOS, dysmenorrhoea, and cycle-related concerns. Some research suggests acupuncture may support blood flow, hormonal regulation and stress pathways, and may complement care during assisted reproductive technology (e.g., IVF), though findings vary and higher-quality studies are needed (Zhu et al., 2022; Armour et al., 2019; Lim et al., 2019; Jo et al., 2021).

The impact is significant:

• Infertility affects around 1 in 6 people trying to conceive in Australia. IVF use has risen markedly in the past decade, with well over 100,000 cycles performed annually.
• Endometriosis affects 1 in 9 Australians by age 44 and is estimated to cost >$9.6–$9.7 billion per year, largely from lost productivity.
• PCOS affects 8–13% of people of reproductive age worldwide and is a leading cause of cycle irregularity and fertility challenges.
• Period pain affects up to 90% of people with periods, with roughly one-third reporting symptoms that limit school, work, or daily life.

These issues touch far more than fertility — they influence quality of life, relationships, emotional health, and long-term wellbeing. Historically, women’s health has been under-researched and under-funded, limiting treatment options. Our clinic aims to expand safe choices by offering evidence-informed Traditional Chinese Medicine approaches alongside mainstream care.

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)

PMS can affect physical, emotional, and mental wellbeing in the days or weeks before menstruation. Symptoms may include mood changes, breast tenderness, irritability, fatigue, bloating, food cravings, poor sleep, or heightened anxiety. While common, PMS can be disruptive — impacting relationships, concentration, and day-to-day functioning.

From a Chinese Medicine perspective, PMS is most often linked to Liver Qi stagnation, though patterns like Spleen deficiency, Blood deficiency, or heat accumulation may also be involved. These patterns can affect how smoothly Qi and Blood move through the body in the lead-up to menstruation, contributing to both emotional and physical discomfort.

Acupuncture for PMS aims to:

• Smooth and regulate the movement of Liver Qi to reduce mood swings and tension
• Ease breast tenderness, bloating and digestive symptoms
• Support sleep quality and reduce fatigue
• Calm the nervous system and support emotional balance
• Regulate the menstrual cycle over time

Research suggests acupuncture may influence serotonin and endorphin pathways and support hormonal regulation, which may help ease PMS-related symptoms for some people.

Chinese herbal medicine can be used alongside acupuncture to help move Liver Qi, reduce stagnation, nourish Blood, and stabilise emotional health. Herbal formulas are carefully chosen based on the timing, type, and severity of PMS symptoms — whether mood-based, physical, or both.

Ongoing care may also include diet and lifestyle support, such as moderating caffeine, balancing blood sugar, and incorporating gentle movement — all of which can improve PMS symptoms over time.

PCOS and Irregular Cycles

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal condition that can impact ovulation, cycle regularity, weight, energy, and fertility. While well described in terms of symptoms, its underlying cause is still not fully understood in Western medicine. Irregular cycles, elevated androgens, insulin resistance, and ovarian dysfunction are often present, though each person’s experience is different.

In Chinese Medicine, PCOS is commonly linked to patterns such as phlegm-damp accumulation, kidney deficiency, or liver Qi stagnation. These patterns may lead to disrupted ovulation, hormonal imbalance, weight fluctuation, and cycle irregularity.

Acupuncture for PCOS aims to:

• Regulate menstrual cycles and promote ovulation
• Reduce insulin and testosterone levels
• Improve LH/FSH ratios and hormonal feedback
• Support ovarian and endometrial function
• Reduce stress and inflammation, both of which can affect hormonal balance

Evidence from clinical trials suggests acupuncture may modulate the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis, improve insulin sensitivity, and reduce androgen excess — all important factors in PCOS management (Lim et al., 2019; Jo et al., 2021).

Given the limited Western treatment options (beyond insulin-lowering medications or oral contraceptives), many people explore integrative therapies. Studies have also investigated the effect of acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine on IVF outcomes and OHSS (ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome) in patients with PCOS, as well as on weight management and metabolic markers.

Chinese herbal medicine is often used alongside acupuncture to support ovulation, reduce phlegm-damp, and promote a more balanced hormonal environment. Formulas are tailored to your unique cycle and symptoms.

Endometriosis

Endometriosis affects around 1 in 9 people assigned female at birth by age 44. It can impact menstrual cycles, fertility, energy, and day-to-day wellbeing. It’s often associated with chronic pelvic pain, inflammation, and sometimes immune dysregulation.

From a Chinese Medicine perspective, endometriosis is seen as a pattern of Blood stasis (blood that is not flowing freely), often in combination with Qi stagnation, “cold” in the uterus, or internal dampness. These patterns can lead to pain, clotting, hormonal imbalance, and difficulty with implantation or conception.

Acupuncture for endometriosis aims to:

• Improve pelvic blood flow and reduce stagnation
• Alleviate pain and regulate uterine contractions
• Reduce inflammation and immune overactivity
• Calm the nervous system and reduce stress-related flares

Systematic reviews have analysed acupuncture’s effects on pain relief, ovarian function, and pregnancy rates. Acupuncture may help reduce pain sensitivity, support endometrial receptivity, and improve circulation (Armour et al., 2019; Cao et al., 2021; Zhu et al., 2022).

Because pelvic pain is often a sign of Qi and Blood not moving freely, TCM focuses on restoring circulation and function to the uterus and ovaries. Acupuncture and herbal medicine are often combined to regulate the cycle, reduce inflammation, and support fertility goals, especially before or after surgery.

Painful Periods (Dysmenorrhoea)

Menstrual pain is one of the most common reasons people seek acupuncture. Around 90% of people with periods experience some pain, and for many, symptoms interfere with work, study or quality of life.

In Chinese Medicine, painful periods are often linked to Qi and Blood stagnation, and sometimes “cold” in the uterus or underlying deficiency. Treatment depends on whether pain comes before, during or after the period, and whether it’s sharp, dull, crampy, or accompanied by other symptoms.

Acupuncture for painful periods aims to:

• Relieve cramping and reduce inflammation
• Improve uterine blood flow and muscle relaxation
• Support hormonal regulation (particularly prostaglandin activity)
• Ease associated symptoms like headaches, breast tenderness or bloating

A Cochrane review (Zhu et al., 2022) found that acupuncture may reduce primary dysmenorrhoea, though more high-quality trials are needed.

Herbal medicine is often prescribed to move Qi and Blood, warm the uterus, and reduce clotting or heavy bleeding — with treatment adapted across your cycle.

Heavy Bleeding (Menorrhagia)

Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding can significantly affect daily life, iron levels, and energy. It may be linked to fibroids, hormonal imbalance, endometriosis, perimenopause, or occur without a clear medical cause.

Heavy Menstrual Bleeding

In Chinese Medicine, heavy bleeding is often associated with Spleen Qi deficiency, heat in the blood, or blood stasis disrupting proper flow. Each of these patterns is treated differently depending on timing, flow quality, and accompanying symptoms.

Acupuncture for heavy bleeding aims to:

• Regulate the menstrual cycle and reduce excessive flow
• Support uterine tone and reduce heat or stagnation
• Nourish underlying deficiencies that contribute to instability in the cycle
• Improve energy and resilience over time

Chinese herbal medicine is often prescribed to strengthen Spleen Qi, cool the blood if heat is present, or move stagnation gently to restore balance. Herbal support is especially helpful in rebuilding strength after heavy periods and addressing the root causes of ongoing cycle disruption.

Pelvic Pain

Pelvic pain may stem from endometriosis, post-surgical recovery, painful intercourse, or chronic tension in the pelvic floor. In TCM, these symptoms often reflect stagnation — either of Qi, Blood, or cold-damp in the lower abdomen. Pelvic pain is a common condition affecting 15-25% of women, and endometriosis is the leading cause in 11% of cases.

This condition can significantly impact fertility by causing inflammation, scar tissue, and impaired ovarian function. Early diagnosis and medical intervention through laparoscopy or hormonal treatments are essential to reducing the risk of chronic pain, but additional therapies such as acupuncture, naturopathy, and lifestyle changes are increasingly recognised for their value in supporting fertility.

Acupuncture for pelvic pain aims to:

• Restore circulation to the pelvic organs
• Relax the nervous system and reduce pain perception
• Address any underlying inflammatory or immune involvement
• Work in tandem with physiotherapy or counselling if needed

Chinese herbs may support treatment by reducing inflammation, warming the lower abdomen, or nourishing tissues affected by long-term pain or trauma.

Painful Intercourse & Vaginismus

Painful intercourse, vaginismus, and pelvic floor tension can affect intimacy and confidence. In Chinese Medicine, these presentations can involve stagnation, “cold” patterns, or stress-related dysregulation.

Treatment focuses on relaxation, circulation, and nervous system support, and often works best alongside pelvic health physiotherapy or counselling where appropriate. Points used are located often on arms and legs and abdomen.

We regularly collaborate with pelvic health physios, psychologists, and other allied health providers to support care across both physical and emotional dimensions.

Luteal Phase Defect

A short luteal phase or low progesterone can affect implantation and early pregnancy. In Chinese Medicine, this often reflects a kidney deficiency, spleen deficiency, or Blood deficiency pattern.

Acupuncture for luteal phase support aims to:

• Support healthy progesterone production
• Nourish endometrial lining and improve receptivity
• Reduce stress, which can disrupt luteal hormone signalling
• Improve blood flow to the uterus in the post-ovulation phase

Chinese herbal formulas are often used to nourish Blood and support progesterone from a TCM framework, especially when luteal temperatures or symptoms suggest a deficiency.

Immune-Related Fertility Factors

For some people, immune activation may play a role in fertility or implantation issues. Chinese Medicine views this through the lens of internal “heat,” stagnation, or deficiency — depending on symptoms and history.

Acupuncture for immune-related fertility aims to:

• Reduce systemic inflammation
• Calm the immune system and support implantation
• Improve endometrial receptivity and uterine environment

Emerging research suggests acupuncture may help modulate immune responses, including natural killer (NK) cell activity and inflammatory cytokines — though more robust studies are needed.

Herbal medicine may be used to regulate immune patterns and reduce excess “heat” or stagnation that may be contributing to early loss or implantation failure.

Perimenopause & Menopause Support

Perimenopause and menopause can bring a wide range of physical and emotional changes — including hot flushes, night sweats, disrupted sleep, brain fog, mood shifts, anxiety, dryness, and cycle changes. These symptoms can affect work, relationships, energy levels, and self-confidence.

Many people seek acupuncture as a gentle, non-pharmacological option to support symptom management and overall wellbeing during this transition.

From a Chinese Medicine perspective, perimenopause is a natural shift in Kidney Yin and Yang balance, often involving patterns like Kidney Yin deficiency, Liver Qi stagnation, or Heart and Spleen depletion. These patterns help explain symptoms such as hot flushes, irritability, insomnia, fatigue, or irregular cycles.

Acupuncture for perimenopause aims to:

• Reduce hot flushes, night sweats and temperature dysregulation
• Calm the nervous system and support more restful sleep
• Improve mood stability and reduce anxiety or irritability
• Support hormonal regulation and transition through cycle changes
• Replenish energy and promote emotional and mental clarity

Several clinical trials and reviews have found acupuncture may be helpful in reducing vasomotor symptoms (such as hot flushes) compared with no treatment, though more rigorous studies are still needed.

Chinese herbal medicine can be tailored to support Yin, calm the spirit, nourish Blood, and gently regulate hormonal transitions. It’s often used in combination with acupuncture to ease symptoms and strengthen the body during this new phase.

Nutritional support also matters — especially iron, protein, B vitamins, and healthy fats — which can support mood, energy, and cognitive function during and after the menopausal transition.

How We Work — Integrative, Collaborative Care

We believe the best care is coordinated. Our practitioners commonly liaise with gynaecologists, fertility specialists, GPs, pelvic health physiotherapists, dietitians, and counsellors. Your plan is tailored and may evolve across your cycle, IVF timeline, or life stage.

We’ll explain options clearly, discuss expected timeframes, and work with your broader care team so nothing is missed.  You can expect balanced information and evidence-supported advice.

You can find us in Westmead, Sydney CBD, Alexandria, Gosford, Melbourne, and Mornington. 

If you’d like to explore how acupuncture and Chinese Medicine may support your menstrual, hormonal, or reproductive health, we’re here to help.

References

• Armour, M., Dahlen, H. G., Zhu, X., Farquhar, C., & Smith, C. A. (2019). The role of acupuncture in treating endometriosis-related pain: Systematic review and meta-analysis. Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand, 98(6), 751–769.
• Cao, H., Liu, J., Lewith, G. T., & Yu, J. (2021). Acupuncture for primary dysmenorrhoea and endometriosis-related pain: Updated systematic review. J Pain Res, 14, 3291–3306.
• Jo, J., Lee, Y. J., Lee, H., Shin, S., & Ernst, E. (2021). Acupuncture for polycystic ovary syndrome: Systematic review and meta-analysis. BJOG, 128(1), 14–24.
• Lim, C. E., Wong, W. S., Cheng, N. C., & Wong, S. F. (2019). Acupuncture for PCOS: Current evidence and research priorities. Obstet Gynecol Surv, 74(3), 182–190.
• Zhu, X., Proctor, M., Bensoussan, A., Smith, C. A., & Wu, E. (2022). Acupuncture for primary dysmenorrhoea. Cochrane Database Syst Rev, (2):CD007854.

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