Acupuncture for Yeast Infections

Yeast infections, medically referred to as vaginal candidiasis, occur when there is an overgrowth of the fungus Candida albicans. Although small amounts of this yeast naturally exist in the body, certain triggers can disrupt the body's balance, leading to uncomfortable and often persistent symptoms.

According to the CDC, three out of four women will experience a yeast infection at some point in their lives. While not usually serious, these infections can be disruptive and affect quality of life. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), which includes acupuncture and herbal formulas, offers a safe and holistic approach to managing yeast infections by addressing their root causes.

Common Symptoms

Women suffering from yeast infections often report intense itching, vaginal irritation, and thick, white discharge resembling cottage cheese. Other symptoms may include a burning sensation during urination or intercourse, redness and swelling of the vulva, and general vaginal soreness. In chronic or recurring cases, the condition can also lead to fatigue, emotional distress, and discomfort in daily life.

Root Causes of Yeast Infections

Several factors can lead to yeast overgrowth. A weakened immune system—caused by illness, chronic stress, or medications like antibiotics—can compromise the body's natural defenses. Hormonal changes during pregnancy, menstruation, or the use of hormonal birth control may also play a role.

Lifestyle choices can be significant contributors. A high-sugar diet, wearing tight clothing, or practicing poor hygiene may disrupt the body’s balance. Stress and fatigue can impair immune response, and underlying health conditions such as diabetes, obesity, or autoimmune diseases further increase the risk of yeast infections.

Conventional Treatment vs. Traditional Chinese Medicine

Western medicine typically treats yeast infections with antifungal creams, suppositories, or oral medications. While these treatments can offer immediate relief, they often don’t resolve the underlying imbalances that cause the infections to recur.

Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) take a more holistic approach, focusing on restoring balance, boosting immunity, and preventing future infections through a combination of acupuncture, Chinese herbs, and dietary changes.

The TCM Perspective on Yeast Infections

In TCM, yeast infections are commonly linked to a condition called Damp-Heat in the lower jiao (pelvic region), where excess moisture and heat create the ideal environment for Candida overgrowth. Other contributing patterns may include Spleen Qi Deficiency, leading to poor digestion and the accumulation of Dampness; Liver Qi Stagnation, caused by emotional stress that disrupts energy flow; and Kidney Yin Deficiency, which results in dryness, itching, and heat sensations.

Addressing these imbalances is essential for achieving long-term relief from chronic yeast infections.

How Acupuncture Helps Yeast Infections

Acupuncture works by regulating internal systems, enhancing immune function, and clearing Damp-Heat from the body, particularly in the pelvic region. Specific acupuncture points are used to target the root causes of vaginal yeast infections. Some points commonly used include Ren 3 (Center Pole) to clear Damp-Heat and promote urinary health. Spleen 9 (Yin Mound Spring) resolves Dampness and supports digestion. Liver 2 (Moving Between) cools Liver Heat and reduces stress. Kidney 6 (Shining Sea) nourishes Yin and relieves dryness and itching. Large Intestine 4 (Joining Value) strengthens immunity and expels Heat. 

Most patients begin to notice symptom relief within a few treatments, with more lasting results developing over time.

Chinese Herbal Medicine for Yeast Infections

Chinese herbal remedies are another integral part of treatment. Customized herbal formulas are designed based on each person’s unique constitution and symptoms. Common formulas include Long Dan Xie Gan Tang, which clears Damp-Heat from the lower body, and Ba Zheng San, which targets urinary and vaginal infections. Si Miao San is frequently used for chronic cases involving Dampness and inflammation, while Liu Wei Di Huang Wan nourishes Kidney Yin to restore internal balance. These herbal treatments not only relieve symptoms but also help correct the systemic imbalances that contribute to recurring infections. These formulas work synergistically with acupuncture to speed recovery and prevent recurring Candida infections.

Dietary Recommendations for Yeast Infections in TCM

Diet is an essential part of managing yeast infections in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Nutritional changes can help reduce internal Dampness and Heat, promoting long-term wellness.

Beneficial foods include cooling vegetables like cucumbers and celery, Damp-resolving grains such as barley and adzuki beans, and probiotic-rich foods like kimchi, sauerkraut, and unsweetened yogurt. Hydrating soups and bone broths also support digestive health.

It’s best to avoid sugary and processed foods, alcohol, caffeine, spicy or greasy meals, and most dairy products (unless probiotic-rich)

These dietary practices, when combined with acupuncture and herbal medicine, create an internal environment that is less hospitable to Candida overgrowth.

How Long Does Treatment Take?

For acute yeast infections, many patients experience improvement after 3–5 acupuncture sessions. Chronic or recurring infections often require weekly treatments over 2–3 months for significant and lasting results. Once symptoms stabilize, maintenance treatments every 4–6 weeks can help maintain balance and prevent future flare-ups.

Reclaim Your Health Naturally

Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine offer a natural, effective, and holistic treatment for yeast infections. By targeting the underlying causes of imbalance, you can find lasting relief and enhance your overall health and vitality.

Take the first step on your healing journey. Schedule an acupuncture session today and experience the benefits of this time-tested approach to women's health.