SUPPORTING PCOS AND IVF THROUGH CHINESE MEDICINE

SUPPORTING PCOS AND IVF THROUGH CHINESE MEDICINe

Fertility journeys can be challenging, particularly when conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are involved. At Xu Clinic, we take an individualised approach, combining acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine and lifestyle support alongside appropriate medical fertility treatment.

 

This case illustrates how complementary care was used to support a patient with PCOS during her fertility journey and IVF treatment. The details have been anonymised and generalised to protect patient confidentiality.

 

The starting point

 

The patient was in her late twenties and had been trying to conceive for around a year. She had PCOS and was not ovulating regularly on her own. She had also recently undergone an IVF cycle that had not resulted in pregnancy.

 

Alongside her fertility concerns, she was experiencing a number of symptoms affecting her general wellbeing, including migraines around her menstrual cycle, persistent tiredness, digestive discomfort, light sleep, brain fog and feeling unusually cold.

 

The focus was therefore not only on fertility, but also on supporting her overall wellbeing and helping her feel more balanced during what can be a physically and emotionally demanding time.

The approach

 

Treatment included regular acupuncture alongside Chinese herbal medicine, with the approach adjusted according to her changing symptoms and stage of treatment.

 

Lifestyle and dietary habits were also discussed. One significant change was moving away from intermittent fasting and towards three regular meals each day. This was intended to provide more consistent nourishment and energy throughout the day.

 

Other areas discussed included keeping a food diary to identify potential digestive triggers, establishing an earlier bedtime and incorporating gentle stretching alongside her existing meditation practice.

 

She also received massage to help relieve tension in the neck and shoulders, which was associated with her headaches.

Changes over time

 

Over the following weeks and months, she reported improvements in several areas of her wellbeing. Her migraines became less frequent, her energy and sleep improved, and her digestive symptoms and brain fog eased.

 

Her menstrual cycles also became more regular, and she began to ovulate more consistently.

 

When she returned to IVF treatment, her ovaries responded strongly to the medication. This can occur more readily in people with PCOS and can increase the risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS). Her fertility team therefore took appropriate precautions and chose to freeze the embryos for a later transfer rather than proceeding with a fresh transfer.

 

Following egg collection, acupuncture and supportive care continued, with treatment adapted according to her symptoms and stage of her IVF journey. Acupuncture was also used to help manage some of the common effects she experienced from fertility medication, including bloating, night sweats, hot flushes, tiredness and skin breakouts.

 

Acupuncture continued alongside her medical treatment up to the time of embryo transfer. She subsequently became pregnant through IVF and went on to have a baby later that year.

 

A note on PCOS and fertility

 

PCOS can present very differently from one person to another, so there is no single approach that will suit everyone.

 

Throughout this fertility journey, acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine and personalised lifestyle support at Xu Clinic were used alongside IVF and under the care of her fertility team. Her holistic treatment plan was adapted as her symptoms and needs changed, including support with her menstrual cycle, digestion, energy, sleep and the side effects she experienced during IVF medication. Acupuncture continued through the different stages of her IVF journey, including up to embryo transfer.

 

At Xu Clinic, we believe fertility support should look at the whole person, not simply one symptom or diagnosis. Treatment is always tailored to the individual and may evolve as their needs change throughout their fertility journey.

 

Book an appointment with us to start your natural fertility journey: https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule/b973b79d/?locations=Xu%20Clinic. 

 

 

                         Helena, Associate Acupuncturist and Fertility Champion at Xu Clinic.

Moxibustion for Breech Presentation

 

Breech Presentation and Moxibustion: A Pregnancy Case Study

We are delighted to share a lovely pregnancy success story from Xu Clinic.

The Presentation

A pregnant client came to see us after being told that her baby was in a breech presentation, meaning the baby was positioned bottom or feet first rather than head down.

The Treatment

The client began a gentle course of moxibustion, a traditional Chinese medicine technique that involves warming specific acupuncture points using moxa, a preparation made from mugwort.

Moxibustion has traditionally been used in Chinese medicine to support women experiencing breech presentation, and it may be considered as one of the complementary options available when appropriate.

Treatment was provided following an individual assessment, with guidance on how to safely continue the technique where suitable.

The Outcome

Around 10 days later, Mum contacted us with wonderful news — her baby had moved into a head-down position, ready for delivery.

Naturally, we were delighted to hear the news and to know that Mum could continue towards her birth with her baby now in a cephalic position.

While this was a very positive outcome for this particular client, it is important to remember that every pregnancy is unique and individual outcomes cannot be guaranteed. A baby's position can also change naturally during pregnancy.

How Can Moxibustion Help With Breech Presentation?

Moxibustion is a traditional technique that uses the gentle warmth of burning moxa to stimulate specific acupuncture points. It has been used within Traditional Chinese Medicine for many years, including as a complementary approach for breech presentation.

At Xu Clinic, we take an individualised approach and will first assess your circumstances to determine whether moxibustion is suitable for you.

If your baby is breech and you would like to explore complementary options, we would be happy to discuss your situation and help you understand whether moxibustion may be appropriate for you.

Please continue to follow the advice and care provided by your midwife, obstetrician or maternity team throughout your pregnancy. 

If you would like to try our service, please book a General Acupuncture and Treatment session with us: https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule/b973b79d/?locations=Xu%20Clinic. 

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Acupuncture for Severe Colic & Constipation:

 

Supporting a Premature Baby with Severe Colic & Constipation: A Case Study

When a newborn is constantly uncomfortable, it can be incredibly distressing for both the baby and their parents. This case involved a two-month-old premature baby who was experiencing significant digestive discomfort, severe colic and constipation.

The Presentation

The baby had been breastfed since birth and was experiencing severe colic throughout the day, both before and after feeding.

During episodes of discomfort, he would become visibly distressed, tightening his whole body and crying. His parents also reported constipation and a protruding umbilical button.

The frequency and intensity of his symptoms meant that he appeared to be in almost constant discomfort, making day-to-day life particularly challenging for the family.

Our Approach

Following an assessment, the baby received one session of paediatric acupuncture.

In addition to the treatment, we felt it was important to give the parents practical techniques that they could continue at home. We therefore demonstrated gentle baby acupressure techniques and provided individualised advice focused on supporting comfortable digestion and encouraging regular bowel movements.

We also discussed feeding practices and provided dietary guidance for Mum, as the baby was exclusively breastfed.

The aim was to provide the family with a combination of gentle treatment, practical hands-on techniques and supportive advice that could be incorporated into their daily routine.

One-Week Follow-Up

At the one-week follow-up, the parents reported a significant improvement in the baby's bowel movements. He had returned to having a daily bowel movement following the treatment.

His colic symptoms had also reduced considerably and were described as much more manageable.

For the parents, having a baby who was more comfortable and easier to settle made a meaningful difference to their daily life.

A Gentle, Individualised Approach to Children's Health

Babies can present with digestive symptoms in many different ways, and every child is different. Our approach is to look at the individual presentation and provide gentle, age-appropriate support alongside practical advice that parents can use at home.

For very young or premature babies, we always recommend that parents discuss persistent, severe or concerning symptoms with their GP, health visitor or paediatric team. Paediatric acupuncture should be considered as complementary support rather than a replacement for appropriate medical assessment and care.

If your baby is experiencing ongoing colic, digestive discomfort or constipation, you are welcome to book a General Acupuncture and Treatment session with us to discuss whether our paediatric services may be appropriate for your child: https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule/b973b79d/?locations=Xu%20Clinic. 

Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine for Sperm Health

 Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine for Sperm Health

The client presented with sperm health issues and came for support ahead of his IVF cycle. He also reported sleep problems, profuse sweating, night sweats, and seasonal headaches.

The main treatment approach to address sperm health involved the use of herbal medicine. The client also received acupuncture treatment, along with dietary and lifestyle advice, to support the treatment programme. After three months of treatment, his sperm parameters were all within a healthy range, and his other health complaints have also resolved.

Sperm health concerns can cause a considerable amount of stress for male clients. Chinese medicine can be a very effective treatment method to support men’s reproductive health. Marked improvement in results can often be seen within a relatively short period when a consistent treatment programme is followed.

If you are looking to improve sperm quality or seeking support for your natural or assisted fertility journey, you are welcome to book a fertility consultation and treatment session online to explore how we can support your goals: https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule/b973b79d/?locations=Xu%20Clinic. 

Acupuncture and herbal medicine for ADHD

Acupuncture and herbal medicine for ADHD 

A patient in her mid-30s was recently diagnosed with ADHD. She presented with difficulty concentrating, poor memory and comprehension. She also reported bloating, severe sinusitis, difficulty falling asleep, excessive dreaming, fatigue, and eczema on the elbows. In addition, she experienced pain around the knees, ankles, and the soles of the feet.

A combination of acupuncture and herbal medicine was prescribed to address her symptoms, along with dietary advice to support treatment. After five sessions of acupuncture and taking herbal medicine, her digestion improved significantly when she adhered to the dietary recommendations. Pain she was experiencing subsided. She was better able to manage stress, and both sleep quality and energy levels improved. Her eczema and sinusitis also showed noticeable improvement.

ADHD stands for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), digestive weakness is often associated with Spleen and Stomach Qi deficiency. Over time, this deficiency can lead to the formation of Phlegm-Dampness, which may cause lethargy, obstruct the sensory orifices, and impair clear thinking and concentration. Phlegm-Dampness can also obstruct the proper nourishment of the skin, contributing to dermatological conditions.

In this case, the patient’s inattentive-type ADHD was effectively managed by addressing the underlying digestive imbalance. By strengthening the Spleen and resolving Phlegm-Dampness, a positive and sustained clinical outcome was achieved.

Book today to start your recovery journey: https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule/b973b79d/?locations=Xu%20Clinic. 

 

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A discussion on the effects of diet on health and modern illness, illustrated through clinical observation

 

病从口入 (Bìng cóng kǒu rù)

A discussion on the effects of diet on health and modern illness, illustrated through clinical observation

When babies are born, the first thing they instinctively do is wriggle and search for their mother’s breast milk. This instinct reflects a fundamental drive for survival, growth, and thriving.

Food and drink provide us with energy, nutrients, warmth, and nourishment. Breast milk is universally recognised as the optimal food for infants because it is densely packed with nutrients, freshly produced, carries maternal antibodies to protect against illness, and is delivered at a gut-friendly temperature that allows easy absorption. This has remained unchanged throughout human history because it works. It has been tested and proven by time. From this, we can clearly see the importance of freshness, appropriate temperature, and an easily digestible form for the body to absorb nutrients and transform them into what it needs to grow and function.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), warm, cooked meals and drinks are considered the most supportive form of nourishment for the body. They allow nutrients to be absorbed efficiently, provide warmth and energy, and support daily activity and productivity. When the body is in a harmonious state, the mind and emotions are more likely to remain calm and balanced.

In modern times, while life has become increasingly convenient, we are also exposed to a wide range of foods and eating habits from different cultures and regions. We can easily source bananas from Madagascar, bottled water from Fiji, fermented kimchi from Korea, and raw sushi from Japan. Ice has also become inseparable from drinks, and many people regularly consume beverages loaded with sugar, creamy, starchy boba pearls, or concentrated matcha containing more caffeine than coffee.

While this globalised diet has expanded our international culinary palate, our digestive systems may be paying the price. Gradual symptoms such as bloating, abdominal pain, distension, gas, and reflux are common warning signs that the digestive system is struggling to process what it receives. Constipation, diarrhoea, or pellet-like stools are also frequent by-products of weakened digestion.

According to TCM, poor digestion can lead to the accumulation of Dampness, a pathological state described as heavy, dense, and obstructive. Dampness often manifests as fatigue, weakness, heaviness in the limbs, phlegm, sinus congestion, weight gain, allergies and intolerances, and low mood or depression. It may also interfere with normal bodily functions, placing strain on the heart, contributing to Fibroid development, obstructing urinary flow (such as in prostate conditions), and playing a role in skin disorders like Eczema and Psoriasis, often with an emotional component.

More concerning is the increasing number of children presenting with these issues as a result of modern dietary habits we now see in clinic: severe eczema, recurrent tonsillitis, frequent urinary tract infections, abdominal pain, bowel irregularities, behavioural challenges, involuntary tics, severe allergies and intolerances, concentration and memory difficulties, and irregular menstruation for young adults. Children are often unable to verbalise their internal discomfort. In TCM, this presentation is referred to irritable organs, which frequently manifests through behaviour: inattention, hyperactivity, impulsivity(aggravated by screen use), cognitive development delays(also involves the Kidney pattern in TCM) and repetitive behaviours. Rather than addressing the root cause by adjusting diet and digestive health, Many of these children are labelled with conditions such as ADHD or autism and are placed into special educational categories.

There is a Chinese proverb 病从口入 Bìng cóng kǒu rù, which means “Illness enters through the mouth”. Do we truly want to rely on colonic cleanses, extreme dietary regimens, or meal replacements that offer only temporary relief? Or do we want to take responsibility for our health and return to a dietary approach that has stood the test of time, one that supports digestion, balance, and long-term wellbeing?

Our acupuncture and herbal medicine services focus on restoring digestion, eliminating symptoms, and providing long-term benefits.” Book today to start your recovery journey: https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule/b973b79d/?locations=Xu%20Clinic. 

Acupuncture for Postpartum Prolapse

Acupuncture for Postpartum Prolapse 

Client presented with mild pelvic organ prolapse after having her second child, despite working hard on pelvic floor exercises. She had been offered surgery as a possible option.

After two acupuncture sessions combined with moxa treatments, her symptoms resolved, and her recent physiotherapy appointment confirmed she is now ready to begin slowly reintroducing light exercise. The headaches she had been experiencing since childbirth also subsided.

Our postpartum prolapse service focuses on restoring comfort, function, and confidence—naturally and safely. Book today to start your recovery journey: https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule/b973b79d/?locations=Xu%20Clinic.