PCOS affects about 10% of women in Toronto and around the world. For those trying to conceive, you likely know polycystic ovary syndrome may impact fertility. Whether or not you’re trying to become pregnant, this condition can be hard to cope with both physically and emotionally.
You may be embarrassed if you experience hair growing in strange places, acne, male pattern baldness, or other physical symptoms that make you think everyone is looking at you. It’s extremely tough emotionally, and even more so for women who want so badly to have a baby. PCOS understandably leaves many women feeling depressed, stressed out, and full of anxiety – it can be a vicious cycle that seems impossible to break.
It’s important to know that polycystic ovary syndrome is linked with health issues such as cardiovascular disease, type II diabetes, and even endometrial cancer. While doctors don’t fully understand its cause, PCOS is a condition in which you may produce male hormones in higher than normal amounts, which is why it often affects fertility. This hormonal imbalance may cause irregular periods, or you may skip your menstrual cycle altogether.
How can you deal with this unpleasant condition? There are many things you can do to minimize the negative symptoms associated with PCOS and enhance fertility.
In terms of unwanted hair, there are many solutions from waxing and electrolysis to depilatory creams. If acne is a problem, you can try topical products that contain salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, however it’s usually related to the hormonal imbalance so these products may not be effective. Acupuncture, herbal medicine, supplements addresses PCOS-related hormonal imbalances, so it will likely help improve your skin condition in the process.
Being overweight is common in women with polycystic ovary syndrome, and losing weight by focusing on lifestyle and dietary changes can help alleviate some of the negative symptoms. By focusing on lifestyle and perhaps shedding a few extra pounds improves hormone levels, and can also help with regulating your menstrual cycle which enhances fertility.
Making lifestyle changes can be challenging, but the benefits for those with PCOS are enormous. Eating a healthy diet, exercising, and reducing stress can improve fertility while making you feel better physically and emotionally.
You may be prescribed medications such as Metformin to balance blood sugar or letrozole or clomid to help with symptoms and regulate your menstrual cycle, however acupuncture is a natural treatment that is effective when used in conjunction with traditional medicine, or on its own.
How can acupuncture help you cope with PCOS? Acupuncture balances the “qi” or energy pathways in the body, promoting blood flow to the uterus and other areas. This component of Chinese medicine promotes proper reproductive system function while reducing the number of androgens (male hormones) present in your body. Acupuncture promotes overall wellness in the body, relieving stress and easing depression so you enjoy a greater sense of well-being.
Dealing with polycystic ovary syndrome can seem overwhelming, however you can do things that make a huge difference in not only how you look and feel, but your fertility. If you’re in the Toronto area and want to learn more about how to cope with PCOS and empower your life, contact us today.