The Effect of Acupuncture in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Undergoing in vitro Fertilization: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND

Acupuncture is increasingly used during in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer (IVF-ET), but its therapeutic benefits for women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) remain uncertain.

METHODS

Eight databases were investigated from the inception until April 1, 2024. We screened randomized controlled trials (RCTs) using acupuncture undergoing IVF-ET, the population was patients with PCOS.

RESULTS

We analyzed 13 RCTs with 1,203 patients. Acupuncture significantly improved clinical pregnancy rate (P < 0.01), high-quality embryo rate (P < 0.01), and live birth rate (P < 0.01). It also reduced gonadotropin (Gn) dose (P = 0.0002), Gn duration (P = 0.005), and OHSS incidence (P < 0.01). No significant differences were seen in fertilization rate, oocyte yield, endometrial thickness, progesterone, LH, E2, miscarriage rate, or cycle cancellation rate.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results showed that acupuncture therapy could increase the high-quality embryo rate, live birth rate and also the clinical pregnancy rate in PCOS patients undergoing IVF. Acupuncture could reduce the dose and duration of Gn. It also decreased the incidence of OHSS. Based on the result of this meta-analysis, acupuncture therapy is suggested in the IVF process for PCOS patients.