The Role of Acupuncture in Ovarian Cancer Treatment and Recovery

Introduction

Ovarian cancer is a life‑changing diagnosis that often requires surgery, chemotherapy, and sometimes radiation. Alongside these essential medical treatments, many patients seek complementary therapies to ease side effects and support recovery. Acupuncture, a core practice of Traditional Chinese Medicine, is increasingly recognized for its ability to reduce treatment symptoms, restore balance, and improve overall well‑being during and after cancer care.

Acupuncture During Treatment

Cancer treatment can be physically and emotionally exhausting. Chemotherapy in particular commonly causes nausea, fatigue, pain, and neuropathy. Acupuncture addresses these issues by stimulating specific acupoints to promote the body’s natural healing responses.

• Reducing Chemotherapy‑Induced Nausea and Vomiting
  Targeting points such as Pericardium 6 (P6) on the inner wrist has strong clinical support for reducing nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy. Many patients report faster relief and improved tolerance for treatment when acupuncture is used alongside antiemetic medications.

• Managing Pain and Neuropathy
  Acupuncture stimulates endorphin release and modulates pain pathways, which can ease both general pain and chemotherapy‑related neuropathy. This can translate into reduced reliance on pain medications and better daily functioning.

• Addressing Fatigue and Emotional Well‑Being
  Cancer‑related fatigue is pervasive and debilitating. By balancing the flow of Qi and supporting nervous system regulation, acupuncture often helps restore energy levels. Its calming effects also reduce anxiety and depression, helping patients maintain emotional resilience through treatment.

Acupuncture After Treatment

Recovery continues long after active treatment ends. Survivors commonly face lingering fatigue, hormonal shifts, pain, and emotional challenges. Acupuncture supports long‑term recovery by addressing these interconnected needs.

• Hormonal Balance and Menopausal Symptoms
  Treatments for ovarian cancer can trigger early menopause and symptoms such as hot flashes and mood swings. Acupuncture offers a non‑hormonal option to help regulate the endocrine system and ease menopausal symptoms.

• Supporting Immune Function
  Post‑treatment immune suppression increases vulnerability to illness. Acupuncture has been shown to enhance immune markers and circulation, supporting the body’s natural defenses during recovery.

• Improving Quality of Life
  Better sleep, reduced anxiety, and improved mental clarity are common benefits reported by survivors who receive regular acupuncture. These improvements contribute directly to a higher quality of life and a smoother transition back to everyday routines.

Acupuncture and Cancer Prevention

While no therapy guarantees prevention, acupuncture contributes to overall health in ways that may reduce cancer risk factors.

• Enhancing Detoxification and Circulation
  Regular acupuncture can support the body’s detox pathways and improve circulation, helping reduce the buildup of metabolic waste and supporting tissue health.

• Balancing Hormones
  Hormonal imbalance is a risk factor for several cancers. Acupuncture’s regulatory effects on the endocrine system can help maintain hormonal stability over time.

• Reducing Chronic Stress
  Chronic stress fuels inflammation and weakens immune function. Acupuncture’s stress‑reducing effects help lower systemic inflammation and support long‑term resilience.

Conclusion

Acupuncture is a gentle, evidence‑informed complement to conventional ovarian cancer care. It can reduce chemotherapy side effects, support recovery, help rebalance hormones, and improve emotional and physical quality of life. For patients and survivors seeking a holistic approach, acupuncture offers a supportive pathway to restore balance and strengthen well‑being.

If you or a loved one are navigating ovarian cancer, consider discussing acupuncture with your oncology team and a licensed acupuncturist experienced in oncology care to create a safe, coordinated plan. Book your first visit online or call us at (408) 605-0263 — we'll take the time to understand your situation and answer any questions.

Mai Acupuncture is located at 621 E. Campbell Ave., Suite 11B, Campbell, CA 95008. Serving Campbell, Los Gatos, Saratoga, and the greater South Bay area.