Based on a considerable number of ancient literature, clinical experience and modern scientific studies, a comprehensive study was performed on the TCM theory and treatment of diminished ovarian reserve. It was summarized that the two causes of diminished ovarian reserve were deficiency of the kidney essence and incoordination between Chong Vessel and Conception Vessel, so the treatment strategy of "stage by stage" acupuncture was proposed. It was pointed out acupoint selection should be in accordance with physiological basis of menstruation and waxing and waning of yin-yang. Therefore, acupuncture at different acupoints and meridians could regulate yin and yang and promote the normal yin-yang transformation, which could store and discharge the uterus. As a result, the function of ovary is recovered. This method has achieved significant clinical efficacy.
Keywords: "stage by stage" treatment; acupuncture; diminished ovarian reserve.