Acupuncture in Obstetrics and Gynecology: An Overview of Systematic Reviews

Abstract

Acupuncture is often recommended for obstetrical and gynecological conditions but the evidence is confusing. We aim to summarize all recent systematic reviews in this area. Western and Asian electronic databases were searched for systematic reviews of any type of acupuncture for any type of gynecological conditions. Our own files were hand-searched. Systematic reviews of any type of acupuncture for any type of gynecological conditions were included. Non-systematic reviews and systematic reviews published before 2004 were excluded. No language restrictions were applied. Data were extracted according to predefined criteria and analysed narratively. Twenty-four systematic reviews were included. They relate to a wide range of gynecological conditions: hot flashes, conception, dysmenorrhea, premenstrual syndrome, nausea/vomiting, breech presentation, back pain during pregnancy, and procedural pain. Nine systematic reviews arrived with clearly positive conclusions; however, there were many contradictions and caveats. The evidence for acupuncture as a treatment of obstetrical and gynecological conditions remains limited.