Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine in Fertility CareA Case of Successful Conception through Emotional and Menstrual Regulation

Written By Norman Plotkin

Introduction

Infertility and difficulties in conception have become increasingly common in modern society. Stress, emotional imbalance, and irregular menstrual cycles often play a significant role. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers unique benefits in regulating emotions, harmonizing the menstrual cycle, and supporting fertility. The following case illustrates how acupuncture and herbal treatment facilitated successful pregnancy.

Case Profile:

Patient: Female, 34 years old

Chief Complaint: Attempting conception for 4 months after stopping contraception for 1 year, without success

Western Medical Findings: No major abnormalities, ovulation and baseline fertility evaluations within normal range

TCM Assessment:

  • Tongue: Pale red with thin white coating

  • Pulse: Wiry and thin

  • Emotional State: High stress and anxiety, irregular menstruation (delayed by 5–10 days, variable flow)

Pattern Differentiation

Although the patient had favorable conditions for conception, her emotional stress and liver qi stagnation disrupted the function of the Chong and Ren meridians, leading to menstrual irregularity and reduced fertility. In TCM, “The liver governs free flow; if constrained, menstruation becomes irregular,” which explains the impaired conception.

Treatment:

  • Principle: Soothe the liver, regulate qi, harmonize blood, and balance the Chong and Ren

  • Herbal Formula: Modified Chaihu Shugan San combined with Siwu Tang, adjusted according to menstrual phases

  • Acupuncture: Selected points included Taichong (LR3), Sanyinjiao (SP6), Guanyuan (CV4), Zigong (EX-CA1), Baihui (GV20) to regulate qi, calm the mind, and support reproductive function

Duration: 2 months

Outcome:

The patient successfully conceived in the second month of treatment. Pregnancy has been smooth:

  • No significant morning sickness (no nausea, vomiting, or acid reflux)

  • Mild fatigue and lower back soreness, improved with acupuncture and dietary guidance

  • Currently at 33 weeks of gestation, with normal fetal movement and no complications

Acupuncture is planned in the coming weeks to support labor induction and facilitate natural delivery

Discussion & Conclusion:

The impact of emotional balance on female fertility. TCM treatment goes beyond “tonifying the kidneys” by also addressing liver qi and regulating emotions.

Integration of acupuncture and herbs is effective in improving menstrual regularity, emotional stability, and ovulation.

TCM also plays an important role in pregnancy care and labor preparation, helping women achieve smoother natural deliveries.

Norman Plotkin
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