Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, or PCOS, is one of the most common causes of menstrual irregularities. Studies have shown that it affects about 4%-10% of women of reproductive age. Other symptoms of PCOS include multiple small cysts on both ovaries, infertility, insulin resistance, obesity, excess hair growth and acne. Women with PCOS might have regular periods, irregular periods or no periods at all and often have problems with ovulation.
PCOS can be diagnosed through an ultrasound, which would most commonly show multiple small cysts on both ovaries. Further lab tests might also be helpful in assessing the severity of the condition. Blood tests that might be requested include prolactin, LH, FSH, testosterone and glucose. Prolactin, LH and FSH are hormones that are involved in a female’s menstrual reproductive cycle. Glucose is affected by insulin which can be abnormal in women with PCOS. Another test that can be done at home involves taking your basal body temperature. If your temperature (taken immediately upon waking) is consistently low throughout the month, it might indicate an elevated estrogen/progesterone ratio, which could mean that there is a problem with ovulation.
Naturopathically, there is a lot that can be done to treat PCOS. Naturopathic medicine addresses the root cause of a condition, so rather than just removing the symptoms temporarily, it would work to correct the underlying problem. Simple diet changes, such as reducing sugar consumption can make a huge difference. Increasing nutrients such as vitamin B6, magnesium and essential fatty acids can also be beneficial. Herbal remedies such as Vitex, Eleutherococcus, Dioscorea, Mitchella and Saw Palmetto have shown to correct an imbalance of the female hormones. Acupuncture is also an excellent treatment option when it comes to addressing woman’s health issues, especially PCOS. Acupuncture is based on the idea of energy channels, whereby in a “healthy state”, energy is freely flowing. It also helps to increase blood flow and nourish the uterus and break down cysts.
Dr. Marni Ross, Naturopathic Doctor
3523 Main St, Vancouver, BC V5V 3N4
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