How Acupuncture and Chinese Herbs May Help Women with PCOS in Vancouver During IVF

How Acupuncture and Chinese Herbs May Help Women with PCOS in Vancouver During IVF

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) affects about 10-13% of women of reproductive age and is a leading cause of irregular cycles and fertility issues. Women in Vancouver who are dealing with PCOS and considering IVF (in vitro fertilization) might be interested in how Chinese medicine and acupuncture can improve their chances of success. A recent study focusing on the Bu-Shen-Tian-Jing Formula (BSTJF), a Chinese herbal treatment, shows promising results for women with PCOS undergoing IVF.

This study provided preliminary evidence of a significant association of Bu-Shen-Jian-Pi Formula treatment with improved pregnancy outcomes in women with PCOS undergoing IVF-ET, partly through increasing BMP15 levels in the follicular fluids.

What is PCOS?

PCOS is a condition that causes hormonal imbalances, leading to irregular menstrual cycles, difficulty ovulating, and reduced chances of the uterus accepting a fertilized egg (known as endometrial receptivity). For women with PCOS in Vancouver, this can result in challenges getting pregnant. PCOS also increases the risks of other complications, such as early pregnancy loss, preeclampsia (a dangerous blood pressure condition), and preterm delivery. Additionally, it can contribute to long-term health problems like type 2 diabetes and mental health issues.

IVF and PCOS: Challenges and Solutions

In Vancouver, many women with PCOS turn to IVF to help overcome fertility struggles. IVF is a medical procedure that involves fertilizing an egg outside of the body and then transferring an embryo into the uterus. However, even with IVF, women with PCOS may still face difficulties because of hormone imbalances and other health concerns. This is where acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine come in.

How Chinese Herbs and Acupuncture Can Help with IVF Success

A recent study investigated the effects of the Chinese herbal formula Bu-Shen-Tian-Jing Formula (BSTJF) on IVF outcomes for women with PCOS. The study followed 111 women with PCOS—half of whom used the BSTJF formula for three months before beginning IVF. The results were encouraging:

  • More Eggs: Women using the BSTJF formula had more eggs retrieved during their IVF cycle.
  • Higher Pregnancy Rates: The women in the herbal treatment group experienced higher pregnancy rates.
  • More Live Births: Women who took the Chinese herbs had a higher rate of healthy live births compared to those who didn’t.

Vancouver Acupuncture and Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) for PCOS and IVF

In addition to herbal medicine, acupuncture and low-level laser therapy (LLLT), also known as photobiomodulation, are powerful tools for women with PCOS trying to regulate their cycles and improve fertility. Acupuncture can help balance hormones, reduce inflammation, and improve blood flow to the reproductive organs, all of which can support IVF success. LLLT used by our clinic in Vancouver works by regulating inflammation and supporting mitochondrial health, which can be especially helpful for managing PCOS. Many women with irregular menstrual cycles and PCOS report improvements in their cycle regularity and overall reproductive health after incorporating acupuncture and LLLT into their treatment plan.

The Importance of Preconception Care in Vancouver

For women in Vancouver dealing with PCOS, preparing the body for pregnancy before starting IVF is crucial. Preconception care—typically lasting 3-6 months—can include a combination of exercise, a PCOS-friendly diet, acupuncture, low-level laser therapy (LLLT), specific supplements and Chinese herbs to balance hormones, address inflammation, and improve ovulatory function. This preparation helps create a healthy environment for both the baby and the mother, reducing the risks of miscarriage and pregnancy complications.

The study followed 111 women with PCOS—half of whom used the BSTJF formula for three months before beginning IVF.
The women in the herbal treatment group experienced higher pregnancy rates.and had a higher rate of healthy live births compared to those who didn’t.

Effects of Chinese herbal medicine on pregnancy outcomes of women with PCOS undergoing in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer: A retrospective cohort study

Final Thoughts on Acupuncture, PCOS, and IVF

Women with PCOS in Vancouver now have more options to support their IVF journey. Acupuncture, paired with Chinese herbal formulas like Bu-Shen-Tian-Jing, can improve the chances of a successful pregnancy by helping regulate irregular cycles and boosting fertility. If you’re dealing with PCOS and considering IVF, integrating acupuncture and herbal medicine into your preconception care plan may offer a natural way to enhance your results.

Study Reference:
This blog post is based on the study: ‘Chinese herbal medicine (Bu-Shen-Tian-Jing Formula) for outcomes of IVF in Chinese patients with polycystic ovary syndrome: a retrospective cohort study.’

Contact us for a free copy of the Acubalance Fertility Diet

Below are some of the resources that share more steps you can take to regulate ovulation and address underlying inflammation and hormonal imbalances that can negatively impact your fertility, pregnancy loss and health of both you and your future baby.