Premature ovarian insufficiency identified as a kidney deficiency and liver constraint pattern treated by Professor Zhiqiang Guo: A retrospective analysis

Abstract

Abstract Objective To study the efficacy of Professor Zhiqiang Guo's unique sequential herbal therapy in the treatment of premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) of the kidney deficiency and liver constraint pattern. Methods Ninety patients with POI who consulted with Professor Guo at Dongzimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine from January 2012 to December 2015 were enrolled. Treatment consisted of sequential therapy using traditional Chinese medicine formulae with the actions of nourishing the liver and kidney. Course of treatment was 3 consecutive menstrual cycles for each participant except for those who became pregnant during treatment. Baseline data including age, course of disease, past medical history, lifestyle, pregnancy outcome, menstrual status (cycle length, menstrual flow duration and volume), as well as gonadal hormone levels before and after treatment were recorded and analyzed. Results During treatment, 18 (20.0%) participants became pregnant. Symptoms including scanty menstrual flow, irritability, low libido, insomnia and excessive dreaming at night, nightsweats, hot flashes, and depression were markedly alleviated. Changes in follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels at early follicular stage were observed (P = .009 and P = .002, respectively), and FSH/LH differed significantly pre- and posttreatment (P = .044). Conclusion Professor Guo's sequential Chinese herbal therapy with the actions of nourishing the liver and kidney to treat POI can enhance ovarian function, promote pregnancy, and improve quality of life.