Acupuncture for Hormone Balance

How Acupuncture Helps Hormone Balance

Acupuncture for hormone balance works by supporting the body’s internal regulatory systems, including:

• Regulating the Hypothalamic-Pituitary Axis (HPA): Acupuncture modulates the HPA axis, which plays a central role in hormone production, stress response, and menstrual regularity. It helps stabilize cortisol levels, which can influence everything from mood to thyroid function.

   

• Balancing Estrogen and Progesterone: For individuals experiencing PMS, PCOS, or perimenopause, acupuncture helps harmonize estrogen and progesterone levels by stimulating specific acupoints associated with reproductive and endocrine health. This may ease symptoms like bloating, irritability, and irregular cycles.

   

• Reducing Symptoms of Menopause: Hot flashes, night sweats, sleep disturbances, and mood swings can all be moderated through acupuncture by improving thermoregulation and reducing sympathetic nervous system activity.

   

• Supporting Thyroid Function: In cases of hypothyroidism or subclinical thyroid dysfunction, acupuncture may help improve energy, reduce brain fog, and support metabolic function by improving communication between the brain and endocrine glands.

   

• Improving Stress-Related Imbalances: Chronic stress can wreak havoc on hormone levels. Acupuncture promotes parasympathetic activity and reduces stress-induced hormonal imbalances, including those related to cortisol and adrenaline.

   

Each treatment at Dr. Kao’s clinic is customized. She considers not only your symptoms but your entire health picture (including sleep, digestion, and emotional well-being) to craft a targeted plan that brings your body back into balance.

Clinical Studies Supporting Acupuncture for Hormonal Health

Scientific research supports acupuncture’s role in helping regulate hormones and easing related symptoms. Here are some key findings:

• PMS and Menstrual Irregularities: A randomized controlled trial published in BMJ Open found acupuncture to be effective in reducing both the intensity and duration of PMS symptoms in women (PMID: 32554542).

   

• Menopause and Hot Flashes: A 2016 systematic review in Menopause concluded that acupuncture was associated with significant reductions in hot flash frequency and severity compared to no treatment or sham acupuncture (PMID: 27333200). Another study in Annals of Internal Medicine supported the use of acupuncture for short-term relief of menopausal symptoms (PMID: 19652125).

   

• Stress Hormones and Cortisol: Studies have shown that acupuncture can reduce circulating cortisol levels and moderate HPA axis activity, promoting a balanced stress response (PMID: 28991154).

   

• Thyroid and Metabolic Function: While more studies are needed, some emerging evidence suggests acupuncture may support thyroid function in subclinical hypothyroidism by improving metabolic and endocrine markers.

   

These findings reinforce what many of Dr. Kao & Associate’s patients experience firsthand—acupuncture isn’t just relaxing; it facilitates measurable shifts in hormonal activity and overall health.

Ready to reclaim hormonal balance naturally? Dr. Heidi Kao and team offer a holistic, integrative approach to hormone health in Oakland. Schedule your free initial consultation today to explore how acupuncture can support your body’s natural rhythms and help you feel your best.