Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, PCOS, is a complex health condition that affects about 10% of women worldwide. Unfortunately, the exact cause of PCOS is not known, but it is considered a hormonal imbalance that predominantly impacts on a woman’s reproductive system, resulting in irregular or absent periods, skin issues, excess body hair, weight gain and can also cause complications with fertility.
Genetics and environmental factors are believed to be involved in the development of PCOS. It is a common cause of female infertility and is responsible for a variety of symptoms that can affect the body physically and emotionally. Numerous studies have found that it runs in families. Not every woman with PCOS will experience the same symptoms. Many women may not even be aware that they have it and it can get misdiagnosed.
The symptoms of PCOS vary significantly but common signs that may indicate PCOS are:
- Irregular, Heavy or Absent periods
- Irregular or no ovulation
- Reduced libido, difficulty conceiving, recurrent miscarriages
- Digestive Disturbances, difficulties managing weight, weight gain, difficulty losing weight, cravings or bingeing
- Excess facial or body hair
- Skin issues such as acne, oily skin, skin tags or skin discolouration
- Mood changes, mood swings and depression
- Poor sleep / Fatigue
- Hirsutism
- Insulin Resistance
- Type 2 Diabetes
Please seek advice
Many of these may seem horribly familiar and you may have been diagnosed with PCOS. Please seek advice if you are affected by any of the above, there are many options that may help. There are many different treatments or treatment combinations that can be used to manage symptoms of PCOS.
Medical options could include medication and/or surgery.
- Nutritional Therapy – A balanced diet is crucial and can significantly improve many symptoms.
- Good quality supplements – Help boost essential nutrients absent from the diet, which will assist in rebalancing hormones.
- Herbalism – There are number of herbs that are incredibly effective in treating PCOS by balancing hormones.
- Reflexology – Reproflexology can be extremely effective in regulating the menstrual cycle, balancing hormones, relaxing and managing stress.
- Aromatherapy – Therapeutic massage combined with essential oils can be really beneficial.
- Acupuncture – Many women have found this helpful for treating PCOS.
- Hypnotherapy, Homeopathy and meditation have all been cited as useful therapies to support treatment of PCOS.
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See you soon,
Sally