O is for Ovarian Cysts: Restoring Flow and Balance with Acupuncture

Ovarian cysts are very common, and many women will experience them at some point in their lives. A cyst is simply a fluid-filled sac that forms on or inside the ovary. In many cases, they come and go without causing any problems. But for some women, they can lead to symptoms like pelvic pain, bloating, irregular periods, or discomfort during ovulation.

If you’ve been told you have ovarian cysts, it can feel confusing or even a bit overwhelming—especially if you’re dealing with ongoing symptoms. The good news is that acupuncture can be a very effective, natural way to support your body.

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Why Do Ovarian Cysts Form?
From a Western perspective, cysts are often linked to hormonal imbalances, especially around ovulation. Stress, poor sleep, and lifestyle factors can all play a role. In Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), we look at it a little differently. Instead of focusing only on the cyst itself, we look at what’s happening in the body that allowed it to form in the first place.
Often, this can include:

• Poor circulation in the pelvic area
• Hormonal imbalance
• Stress and tension affecting the body
• Digestive issues that lead to fluid buildup

When energy (Qi) and blood aren’t moving properly, the body can develop areas of stagnation—and over time, that can contribute to things like cysts.

How Acupuncture Can Help
Acupuncture works by helping your body return to a more balanced, natural state. It doesn’t just target the cyst—it supports your whole system.

• Regulates hormones: Acupuncture can help bring your cycle back into balance, which is key for preventing and managing cysts.
• Improves circulation: Better blood flow to the ovaries and uterus helps the body reabsorb fluid and reduce stagnation.
• Reduces pain and pressure: Many women notice a decrease in pelvic pain, bloating, and discomfort after just a few treatments.
• Calms the nervous system: Stress plays a bigger role than most people realize. Acupuncture helps shift your body out of “fight or flight” and into a relaxed state where healing can happen.

Treatments are tailored specifically to you. Your Doctor of Acupuncture will choose points based on your symptoms, cycle, and overall health.

Most treatment plans involve a series of sessions over a few weeks or months, depending on how long symptoms have been present. This isn’t a quick fix—but it’s a powerful way to support long-term healing.

The Bottom Line
Ovarian cysts are common, but they shouldn’t be something you just “live with.” If you’re dealing with pain, irregular cycles, or ongoing discomfort, your body is asking for support. Acupuncture offers a natural, gentle way to help regulate hormones, improve circulation, and reduce symptoms—while supporting your overall health at the same time. To get started, click here to book a free consultation with one of our Doctors of Acupuncture. ​

​-- Dr. Susan Newman, Dr. Ac