Exploration of Acupoint Compatibility Patterns in Acupuncture Treatment for Infertility Based on Data Mining

Area of Science:

• Integrative and Complementary Medicine
• Traditional Chinese Medicine
• Reproductive Medicine

Background:

• Infertility affects a significant portion of the reproductive-age population globally.
• Acupuncture is a widely used complementary therapy for infertility, but acupoint selection lacks standardized guidelines.
• Understanding acupoint compatibility is crucial for optimizing acupuncture efficacy in infertility treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the compatibility rules of acupoint selection in acupuncture for infertility using data mining.
• To identify frequently used acupoints, meridian associations, and acupoint combinations for different infertility types.
• To provide evidence-based insights for clinical acupoint selection in infertility treatment.

Main Methods:

• A systematic literature search was conducted across multiple databases for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on acupuncture for infertility.
• Data mining techniques, including R language and Cytoscape, were used to analyze acupoint frequency, meridian attribution, and association rules.
• Analysis focused on infertility related to polycystic ovary syndrome, diminished ovarian reserve, and unexplained infertility.

Main Results:

• 220 prescriptions involving 92 acupoints (3,653 uses) were analyzed.
• The most frequent acupoints were Guanyuan (CV4), Sanyinjiao (SP6), and Zigong (EX-CA1).
• Core acupoint groups and key meridians (Conception Vessel, Spleen, Stomach) were identified, with a focus on regulating qi and blood.

Conclusions:

• This study offers valuable insights into acupoint compatibility for infertility treatment.
• The findings can guide clinicians in optimizing acupoint selection and combination strategies.
• Data-driven approaches enhance the scientific basis of acupuncture for reproductive health.