Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

What is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)?

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder common in women of reproductive age. Women with PCOS may have irregular or prolonged menstrual periods, excess androgen levels (male hormones), and small collections of fluid (follicles) in their ovaries. These hormonal imbalances can lead to difficulties with ovulation and fertility.

The cause of PCOS is not fully understood, but it is often associated with insulin resistance, obesity, and genetics.

Signs and Symptoms of PCOS

- Irregular menstrual cycles

- Excess hair growth (hirsutism)

- Acne and oily skin

- Weight gain or difficulty losing weight

- Thinning hair on the scalp (alopecia)

- Fertility issues

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and PCOS

In TCM, PCOS is seen as a condition related to imbalances in the spleen, liver, and kidney systems. PCOS may result from phlegm-damp accumulation, liver Qi stagnation, or deficiencies in kidney yin and yang. TCM is a wonderful way to treat PCOS without birth control.

TCM Diagnosis and Approaches:

- Phlegm-Damp Accumulation: PCOS is commonly linked to the formation of phlegm-damp, which obstructs the ovaries and disrupts hormonal balance. This pattern is often seen in women with insulin resistance or obesity.

- Herbs: Formulas like Er Chen Tang (Two-Cured Decoction) are used to resolve phlegm and dampness. Cang Zhu (Atractylodes) and Fu Ling (Poria) are herbs commonly used to drain dampness and strengthen the spleen.

- Liver Qi Stagnation: Emotional stress and frustration can exacerbate liver Qi stagnation, leading to irregular menstruation and hormonal imbalances. Regulating liver Qi is a key component of TCM treatment for PCOS.

- Acupuncture for PCOS: Points like Liver 3 (Tai Chong) and Spleen 6 (San Yin Jiao) are used to regulate liver Qi and improve menstrual regularity.

- Kidney Deficiency: The kidneys play a central role in reproductive health in TCM. Kidney yin deficiency can lead to overheating and irregular cycles, while kidney yang deficiency may cause coldness, lack of ovulation, and infertility.

- Dietary Therapy: Warming foods that support kidney yang, such as lamb, ginger, and cinnamon, are recommended. Cooling foods like watermelon or cucumber may be used in cases of excess heat.

Lifestyle Recommendations

- Regular exercise is recommended to reduce dampness and improve metabolic function. Tai chi or qigong can also help regulate liver Qi and calm the mind.

- Dietary changes that avoid excess sugar, processed foods, and greasy foods are essential for managing phlegm-damp accumulation.