Acupuncture for PCOS

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a complex hormonal condition affecting many women.

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS )

If you or someone you care for has PCOS, you will understand the challenges of navigating symptoms, lab results, and hormonal fluctuations. PCOS impacts more than just the ovaries; it affects the entire body. I hope this blog post can give you some insight into PCOS and how you may navigate PCOS.

Firstly, what is even going on with PCOS?

It’s essential to distinguish between polycystic ovaries (PCO) and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). While both may share certain features, they’re not the same condition.

Polycystic Ovaries (PCO) refer to ovaries containing multiple immature follicles, which may appear as fluid-filled sacs on an ultrasound, giving a “polycystic” look. In PCO, ovarian function may be altered, but it doesn’t necessarily involve the broader hormonal or metabolic issues seen in PCOS. In a typical cycle, hormones like FSH (Follicle-Stimulating Hormone) and LH (Luteinizing Hormone) guide the maturation of a single egg for ovulation. In PCO, multiple follicles may begin to develop but do not fully mature or release an egg, leading to irregular cycles for some individuals.

PCOS, on the other hand, is a metabolic and endocrine disorder involving both ovarian and whole-body effects. PCOS often includes higher levels of androgens (male hormones), contributing to symptoms such as excessive hair growth, acne, weight fluctuations, irregular menstrual cycles, and fertility challenges. These hormonal imbalances further disrupt ovulation and can cause the multiple cyst-like follicles characteristic of PCOS on an ultrasound.

While polycystic ovaries (PCO) show multiple immature follicles, they can occur independently. PCOS, however, typically involves additional systemic imbalances affecting hormones, metabolism, and, often, insulin resistance. How is PCOS Diagnosed? The Key Criteria Diagnosis of PCOS usually involves meeting two out of these three criteria:

1. Irregular or absent ovulation: Often characterised by infrequent or missed periods.

2. High androgen levels: Indicators include acne, excessive hair growth, male-pattern hair thinning, and elevated testosterone.

3. Polycystic ovaries on ultrasound: Multiple follicles or cysts may appear, though this isn’t required for diagnosis. How is PCOS typically treated?

Unfortunately there is no cure for PCOS, there are however ways to manage the symptoms, from birth control, anti-androgen medicine, metformin, ovulation induction therapies, IVF and lifestyle changes. It is important to consider your health goals and medical history when considering these.

Chinese Medicine can also be used to manage the symptoms of PCOS. As PCOS effects the whole system, Chinese Medicine believes on addressing the whole system, taking into account the root cause and imbalances. Exploring Root Causes: More Than Hormones

PCOS varies from person to person and usually arises from a mix of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Key influences include:


1. Stress and the Nervous System: Chronic stress can disrupt the brain’s communication with the ovaries, impacting ovulation.

2. Blood Sugar and Insulin Resistance: PCOS is often linked to insulin resistance, which can create a feedback loop of elevated insulin and androgen levels, affecting metabolism and weight.

3. Diet and Nutrition: Highly processed foods and refined sugars can worsen insulin resistance and blood sugar imbalances, aggravating PCOS symptoms.

4. Low-Grade Inflammation: Persistent inflammation, often tied to high blood sugar or stress, can contribute to PCOS’s complex hormonal imbalance, making holistic management vital.

How can Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine for PCOS

Acupuncture for PCOS

Working with many women clinic my main goals are to address their root imbalances to:

• Regulate Menstrual Cycles: By balancing hormone levels, acupuncture may help establish more regular menstrual cycles and support fertility.

• Reduce Androgens: High androgen levels can be managed with acupuncture, potentially easing symptoms like acne and unwanted hair growth.

• Relieve Stress: Acupuncture’s calming effects on the nervous system help reduce stress, which is a known aggravator of PCOS.

• Alleviate Pain and Cramps: Acupuncture can provide relief from menstrual cramps and discomfort associated with irregular cycles.
  

Moving Forward with Confidence

For those managing PCOS, you’re not alone. A path to balance is within reach whether it is to conceive or to optimise your health and manage symptoms. I often recommend weekly acupuncture sessions over three months, alongside tailored lifestyle and dietary guidance to address specific PCOS symptoms and root causes. With time and care, hormonal balance is achievable, no matter your current starting point.