Osteopathy and Irregular Menses: Holistic treatments for infertility
- Grace J. Kim, DO
- May 5
- 2 min read
When patients come in with chronic pain, they’re often surprised to learn how interconnected their symptoms can be. In several cases, I’ve worked with female patients who, in addition to musculoskeletal discomfort, also experienced irregular or absent menstrual cycles. After a series of osteopathic treatments focused on the head, neck, and back, some of these women began menstruating again—often for the first time in months or even years. How is this possible?
To understand this, we need to look at the body through the lens of structure and function.
The pituitary gland—often called the "master gland"—plays a central role in regulating hormone levels, including those that control the menstrual cycle. Anatomically, the pituitary sits in a small bony cavity at the base of the skull called the sella turcica and is enveloped in a tough connective tissue membrane known as the dura mater. This dura is not isolated; it has structural continuity with the cervical spine—particularly around C2 and C3—and the sacrum via the dural tube.
Source: TeachMeAnatomy - Pituitary Gland
Tension or strain in the neck or sacral region can create abnormal dural tension, potentially impacting pituitary function. In osteopathic medicine, we assess these areas for restriction or imbalance and use gentle, hands-on techniques to release tension and restore mobility. By addressing the mechanical restrictions in the head, neck, and pelvis, we may be facilitating a more balanced neurological and endocrine environment—one in which the body can resume its natural hormonal rhythms.
The Osteopathic Perspective: Structure-Function Relationships
The osteopathic approach to menstrual irregularities stems from the fundamental principle that structure and function are reciprocally interrelated. This perspective suggests that structural imbalances in the cranium, spine, or pelvis might influence the function of organs and glandular tissues through several potential mechanisms:
Mechanical strain on dural structures potentially affecting blood flow or cerebrospinal fluid dynamics around the pituitary gland
Altered neurological signaling due to spinal or cranial restrictions
Changes in pelvic biomechanics affecting uterine positioning and blood flow
Systemic effects of chronic structural dysfunction on stress response and hormonal regulation
For those struggling with unexplained infertility or irregular menstrual cycles, especially after exhausting conventional treatments, it may be worth considering a hands-on osteopathic evaluation which can provide holistic treatments for infertility. Osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) looks beyond symptoms to explore how structural imbalances may be contributing to functional disturbances.
Structure and function are deeply intertwined. When the body is its physiological state structurally, its systems—including the endocrine system—can often find their natural rhythm again.
If you’re curious whether this approach may help you or someone you know, I invite you to schedule a consultation for a personalized evaluation.
