What is PCOS?

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder that affects people with ovaries, typically during their reproductive years. It is characterised by a combination of symptoms and hormonal imbalances, which can vary in severity from person to person. This condition can have a significant impact on a person’s overall health and fertility, especially for those diagnosed with PCOS.

What are the symptoms of PCOS? 

Ovulatory Dysfunction: One of the primary characteristics is irregular or absent ovulation (anovulation). Ovulation is the process by which an egg is released from the ovaries, and in this condition, this process may not occur regularly or at all. This can lead to irregular menstrual cycles or the absence of menstruation (amenorrhoea).

Hyperandrogenism: People with PCOS often have higher levels of androgens, which are male hormones like testosterone. This can lead to symptoms such as hirsutism (excessive hair growth in areas where males typically grow hair, like the face and chest), acne, and male-pattern baldness.

Many individuals with PCOS may experience challenges related to the condition, which can affect their daily lives.

Polycystic Ovaries: On ultrasound imaging, the ovaries of individuals may appear enlarged and contain tiny, fluid-filled sacs called cysts. These cysts are immature follicles that have not developed properly due to hormonal imbalances.

Understanding PCOS is crucial for effective management and treatment.

Awareness of how PCOS affects various aspects of health can help individuals make informed choices.

Menstrual Irregularities: This condition can result in irregular menstrual periods, heavy bleeding, or no menstruation at all. This can make it challenging for individuals to predict their cycles and can also impact their fertility.

Individuals affected by PCOS should consult with healthcare professionals for personalised guidance and advice.

Managing PCOS effectively can help individuals lead healthier, more balanced lives.

Insulin Resistance: Many individuals also experience insulin resistance, which means their bodies do not respond effectively to the hormone insulin, resulting in elevated blood insulin levels. This can contribute to weight gain and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes.

Many treatment options exist for PCOS, tailored to individual needs and symptoms.

It is essential to consider the management of PCOS as a holistic approach.

For individuals experiencing PCOS, lifestyle changes can significantly improve symptoms.

Weight Gain: Obesity and this condition are often linked. Excess weight can exacerbate symptoms, and the condition can make losing weight more challenging.

Fertility Issues: Due to irregular ovulation, many may struggle with fertility. However, with appropriate medical intervention, such as medication to induce ovulation, many can still conceive.

Metabolic Complications: This condition is associated with an increased risk of various metabolic complications, including type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and heart disease.

What are the causes of PCOS?

The exact cause of PCOS is not fully understood, but it is believed to be a complex interplay of genetic and environmental factors. Diagnosis typically involves a thorough medical history, physical examination, blood tests to assess hormone levels, and sometimes imaging (such as ultrasound) to evaluate the ovaries.

What are the treatments for PCOS? 

Medical treatment is tailored to an individual’s specific symptoms and goals. It may include lifestyle changes (such as weight management through diet and exercise), hormonal medications (like birth control pills to regulate menstrual cycles or anti-androgens to manage hirsutism), and fertility treatments. Additionally, managing insulin resistance through medication and lifestyle modifications is sometimes necessary.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers several herbal medicine strategies that may be used to address this condition. Please note that it’s essential to consult with a qualified TCM practitioner or healthcare provider before starting any herbal treatment, as individual cases can vary, and a personalised approach is necessary for better outcomes. Additionally, TCM works best when individual herbs are prescribed as part of Chinese herbal medicine formulations, as they are more balanced, with each herb having a specific role in the prescription.

Here are some common (nonspecific) Chinese herbal medicine strategies for PCOS:

Chuanxiong (Ligusticum chuanxiong)

Dang Gui (Angelica sinensis)

Bai Shao (Paeonia lactiflora)

Tu Si Zi (Cuscuta chinensis)

Xiang Fu (Cyperus rotundus)

Yi Mu Cao (Leonurus heterophyllus)

Huang Bai (Phellodendron amurense)

Addressing PCOS early on can lead to better long-term health outcomes.

Ze Xie (Alisma plantago-aquatica)

Fu Ling (Poria cocos)

Chen Pi (Citrus reticulata)

Ban Xia (Pinellia ternata)

Reducing Androgens:

Di Huang (Rehmannia glutinosa)

Zi Cao (Arnebia euchroma)

Shan Yao (Dioscorea opposita)

Sheng Ma (Cimicifuga foetida)

Wu Wei Zi (Schisandra chinensis)

Huang Qi (Astragalus membranaceus)

Learning about PCOS can empower individuals to seek suitable treatments.

Ku Shen (Sophora flavescens)

Shan Zha (Crataegus pinnatifida)

Improving Blood Circulation:

Hong Hua (Carthamus tinctorius)

By understanding PCOS, individuals can take proactive steps towards management and treatment.

Yan Hu Suo (Corydalis yanhusuo)

Dan Shen (Salvia miltiorrhiza)

Chuan Xiong (Ligusticum wallichii)

Bai He (Lilium brownii)

Suan Zao Ren (Ziziphus jujuba)

Long Yan Rou (Longan fruit)

Kidney Tonic Herbs:

Shan Yao (Dioscorea opposita)

Shu Di Huang (Rehmannia glutinosa)

Lu Rong (Deer Antler Velvet)

Chai Hu (Bupleurum chinense)

Bai Shao (Paeonia lactiflora)

Xiang Fu (Cyperus rotundus)

It’s important to remember that TCM treatments are highly individualised, and a TCM practitioner will consider your specific symptoms, body constitution, current medication, treatment goals, and overall health before prescribing any herbal remedies. Additionally, TCM can be used in conjunction with dietary and lifestyle modifications to manage this condition effectively. Often, acupuncture is used to support an individual as well. It is advantageous to consult a registered and qualified Chinese medicine practitioner before starting any new treatment regimen.

If you are considering acupuncture or Chinese herbal medicine for PCOS, here are some details about your local AHPRA-registered practitioner.

Book your appointment today or reach out with any questions that you might have.