PCOS or polycystic ovary syndrome is a hormonal disorder that affects millions of women in the UK and yet is commonly left undiagnosed. The ovaries can contain a large number of small harmless cysts (up to 8mm in size).
The main physiological issue surrounding PCOS seems to be with insulin resistance, which drives high blood glucose levels, subsequently increasing oestrogen, androgen and testosterone levels.
These hormones can strongly affect metabolic processes and organs in the body and cause any of the following:
- Light, irregular or infrequent menstruation
- Infertility caused by the absence of ovulation
- Excessive hair growth on face and body (Hirsutism)
- Weight gain
- Acne / pimples
- Hair loss from the head (Alopecia)
- Mood swings and depression
Sounds delightful huh? Well if that’s not enough, PCOS is also associated with conditions including diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol so if you suffer from any of these it increases the risk of having polycystic ovaries.
So what can a naturopath do you ask? Through the use of herbs, nutrients and dietary modification, i would look to address some of the underlying issues and common symptoms of pcos through:
- Balancing hormone levels
- Regulating blood glucose levels (a driving force behind PCOS)
- Stimulating digestion and liver health to enhance detoxification of excess circulating hormones
- Educating you on diet, lifestyle and environmental factors.
Analysing the diet is SUPER important and the removal of refined carbohydrates, i.e. bread, pasta, rice, cakes, biscuits, chocolate etc. must be considered first and foremost. The elimination of unhealthy fats, processed foods, artificial sweeteners and non organic meat and dairy products are also a major part of the road to better health.
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