摘要：Background
Diminished ovarian reserve (DOR) is a condition in which the ovary loses its normal reproductive potential, compromising fertility. Although the prevalence and incidence of DOR is increasing, there are currently no effective treatments for this condition. Acupuncture has been reported as an alternative therapy for female infertility. The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of acupuncture for women with DOR.
Methods/design
In this randomized controlled trial, a total of 120 women with DOR will be randomly assigned to receive either acupuncture or sham acupuncture for 12 weeks. The primary outcome will be determined by the mean change from baseline in the antral follicle count (AFC) at week 12. Secondary outcomes include serum levels of FSH, LH, E2, and AMH, the length of menstrual cycle, and the score of Self-Rating Anxiety Scale (SAS).
Discussion
This study is expected to investigate the effectiveness of acupuncture versus sham acupuncture in improving ovarian reserve for women with DOR.
Trial registration
Acupuncture-Moxibustion Clinical Trial Registry
ChiCTR1800014988. Registered on 6 February 2018
关键词：Diminished ovarian reserve; Acupuncture; Randomized controlled trial; Study protocol
