Women's Health - Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): A Hormonal Imbalance Impacting Women's Reproductive Health
According to Jiling Hu L.Ac, OMD., a specialist in women's health, PCOS is associated with significant reproductive and medical consequences. Long-term health impacts of PCOS can generally be managed through lifestyle changes and Chinese Herbal Medicine, as mentioned by Dr. Hu.
In its severe form, PCOS involves excessive production of the male hormone testosterone, leading to male-pattern hair growth, acne, or hair loss, and menstrual irregularities due to ovulation failure. Some women with PCOS may experience months or even years without periods or have sporadic menstruation, potentially leading to abnormal uterine lining build-up, a precursor to uterine cancer.
Unfortunately, many women are unaware of the long-term consequences of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome.
Although genetic factors may contribute to PCOS susceptibility, lifestyle factors, such as diet and exercise, play a crucial role in its severity. Excess weight can worsen reproductive problems and insulin resistance linked to diabetes. Therefore, weight loss through diet and exercise is a vital strategy in combatting PCOS effects.
Treatment for PCOS is individualized, focusing on correcting irregular uterine bleeding or restoring fertility. Women with PCOS not planning to become pregnant are often prescribed oral contraceptives. For those with PCOS seeking pregnancy but not ovulating, Chinese herbal medicine can restore ovulation by increasing the release of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) from the head, which stimulates ovarian follicles to grow. Chinese Herbal Medicine can be used alone or in combination, depending on the woman's condition.