Gut Health, PCOS & Fertility – How Acupuncture Can Help
- Aug 16
- 3 min read
Updated: 5 days ago
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common hormonal conditions affecting women of reproductive age, and a leading cause of fertility difficulties.
Recent research suggests that changes in the gut microbiome may play a more significant role than previously thought, and acupuncture is emerging as a natural approach to help restore balance. This is where the link between PCOS, fertility, gut health, and acupuncture becomes especially relevant.
The PCOS–Gut Health Connection
A new study from Zhejiang University found that women with PCOS had around half the amount of a beneficial gut bacterium called Parabacteroides merdae compared with women without PCOS. This microbe helps convert nutrients, such as the amino acid isoleucine, into short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) — powerful compounds that reduce inflammation, support hormonal balance, and maintain the health of the womb's lining.
When P. merdae is low:
Isoleucine builds up, which may cause “age-like” changes in the uterus.
SCFA levels drop, reducing the endometrium’s ability to prepare for and sustain pregnancy.
Pregnancy complications like miscarriage, preterm birth, gestational diabetes, and low-birth-weight babies may be more common.
Why Short-Chain Fatty Acids Matter for Fertility
SCFAs — including acetate, propionate, and butyrate — are made when gut bacteria break down dietary fibre. They:
Lower inflammation in reproductive tissues
Improve insulin sensitivity, which is especially important in PCOS
Support hormonal regulation and communication between the gut, brain, and ovaries
Help prepare the womb lining for healthy implantation
How Acupuncture Supports a Healthy Microbiome
PCOS Fertility-Gut Health & Acupuncture Connection
Acupuncture isn’t just about improving energy flow — research now shows it can directly influence the gut microbiome and hormone balance.A 2025 review highlighted that specific acupuncture points — including ST36, SP6, CV12, PC6, and BL23 — can:
Increase SCFA-producing bacteria (e.g., Akkermansia muciniphila, Bifidobacterium)
Regulate appetite and fertility hormones (GLP-1, PYY, ghrelin)
Activate the vagus nerve, improving gut-brain-endocrine communication and reducing stress responses
Reduce inflammation by lowering cytokines, such as TNF-α and IL-6, which are associated with PCOS symptoms and reproductive issues.
These effects create a healthier environment for ovulation, implantation, and pregnancy.
Holistic Fertility Support Tips
Alongside acupuncture, these steps may help support your microbiome and fertility:
Eat for your gut – Include fibre-rich foods (such as vegetables, pulses, and whole grains) to feed SCFA-producing bacteria.
Manage stress – Mind-body practices, gentle movement, and adequate sleep can help regulate hormones.
Consider probiotics – Especially strains known to increase SCFAs (talk to a practitioner before starting supplements).
Stay active – Moderate exercise improves insulin sensitivity and circulation to reproductive organs.
The Bottom Line
For women with PCOS, gut health could be a missing link in fertility care. By restoring microbial balance, reducing inflammation, and supporting hormonal harmony, acupuncture offers a promising, natural pathway to improve reproductive outcomes.
This growing area of research highlights the importance of considering the entire picture, encompassing PCOS, fertility, gut health, and acupuncture. When these elements are considered together, they offer a robust, holistic framework for supporting conception and pregnancy.
If you’re living with PCOS and trying to conceive, we can help. Book your fertility-focused acupuncture session at Health Tree Acupuncture today.
References:
Wade, G. (2025). Altered gut microbiome linked to fertility issues in people with PCOS. New Scientist.
Health Tree Acupuncture. Can acupuncture help with weight management? A new study explores the link between acupuncture & nutrition.
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