Effects of different acupuncture methods on polycystic ovarian syndrome: a systematic review and network meta-analysis
Abstract
Background: Acupuncture has been widely applied to polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) patients. This network meta-analysis (NMA) aims to compare the effects of different acupuncture methods on PCOS from the aspects of hyperandrogenism, metabolic status, sexual hormone disturbance, and infertility.
Methods: We searched eight electronic databases for randomized controlled trials on different acupuncture methods vs. placebo or standard treatment by the end of 30 October, 2023. Stata17 and R 4.5.2 were used for a Bayesian NMA, and Cochrane RoB 2.0 tool for the methodological quality assessment of the included studies.
Results: A total of 59 studies (5937 participants) were included. In terms of hyperandrogenism, acupuncture greatly reduced testosterone levels in PCOS patients compared with medicine (mean difference(MD)): 0.69; 95% credible interval [0.35, 1.03]). Based on surface under the cumulative ranking curve (SUCRA), acupoint catgut embedding (ACE) was the most recommended in decreasing testosterone levels(SUCRA = 81.7%). Compared with placebo, electro-acupuncture (E-acupuncture) was significantly effective in decreasing Ferriman-Gallwey scores in PCOS patients (MD: 1.52; 95% CrI [0.50, 2.53]), and it was also the preferred choice for reducing Ferriman-Gallwey scores (SUCRA = 84.9%). In terms of metabolic status, ACE was regard the most recommended in reducing body mass index (SUCRA = 90.9%) and waist hip rate (SUCRA = 95.3%); acupuncture was considered as the top…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a meta-analysis, done in people. Its evidence level is 1 of 5 (Highest · pooled evidence). Pooled evidence from several studies sits at the top of the evidence pyramid. Reported size: 5,937 participants or records.
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