SOS For PCOS
Do you have late or infrequent periods? An unpredictable cycle may be more than an inconvenience. It is a hallmark sign of PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome). Some statistics estimate that this syndrome affects between 4-12% of women in the US—that’s at least one woman in the picture above. If you have trouble with irregular cycles or know a woman who does, read on. Acupuncture, nutrition and holistic methods can help you.
At its most simple, PCOS causes late or absent periods because eggs are not being released (ovulated) regularly. Early in our reproductive years, we may not regard irregular periods as a problem. Often you’ll start the pill to “regulate” the cycle and stay on for years.
When it’s time to start a family, we stop the pill, and try! But…for women with PCOS it may take months for a period to resume. The window for trying may be anyone’s guess and the pregnancy test keeps turning up negative.
You may also deal with a host of symptoms like stubborn weight gain, acne, unwanted hair growth, thinning hair, or fatigue. These symptoms reflect disordered hormonal signaling. Unfortunately, this web of hormonal signaling takes time to correct--time we don’t want to spend when we wanted a baby yesterday!
PCOS is not ‘just’ a fertility problem, however, (as if that wasn’t enough!). It is also a cardio-metabolic condition. Women with PCOS can also face an increased risk of:
Insulin resistance
type 2 diabetes,
high cholesterol,
depression
Please know that there are many solutions for these imbalances. I feel passionately about helping women with PCOS achieve their best health and fertility. Part of that process is learning how to use nutrition, exercise, natural substances to your best advantage.
Pro Tips for Irregular Cycle scenarios:
1. I take the pill for irregular cycles but I know I want a family down the line:
→ Plan with your gynecologist to come off the pill ahead of when you want kids. Allow 3-6 months for your cycle to kick in (please use other birth control methods in the meantime!). Track periods that come unassisted by medication. Educate yourself now on diet, lifestyle and natural health interventions.
2. I’m trying now. Help!
→ There is so much you can do to create a fertile terrain and conceive. Track your cycle to know the total number of days between periods. Know, however, your tracker is not likely to get your fertile window right if your cycles bounce around a lot. Reach out for help and learn the nutrition and methods right for your body.
3. No kids for me, thanks!
→It is still vital to your long-term health to regulate hormone imbalances. The period can be seen as a barometer for metabolic health. Invest time to upgrade your nutrition and lifestyle to pay dividends in your overall health and well being. (Hint: increased veggies, fiber and high quality protein are the cornerstones to a nutritional approach!)
Wishing you a clear path to healthy, balanced hormones.
SF Acupuncture’s Jeannie Bianchi specializes in women’s health and has developed a protocol to help heal PCOS and get the reproductive system cycling. Reach out to schedule an exploratory call or in-person visit.
