Acupuncture and Chinese Herbs
From a Chinese medical point-of-view, PCOS is known as an accumulation of ‘Damp’ or ‘Phlegm’ in the abdomen (which results in the many follicles formed on the ovaries) combined with ‘Blood Deficiency’ (which results in sporadic or absence of menstrual bleeding). These are both a consequence of an imbalance of Yin and Yang – which in this case equate roughly to oestrogen and progesterone.
Acupuncture is a great treatment for bringing the hormones into balance and we try to stimulate ovulation to create a more regular and predictable menstrual cycle. Once this has been achieved, Basal Body Temperature charting will help you to predict when you will ovulate and hence can try to conceive.
Chinese Herbal Medicine works more effectively at reducing the ‘Damp’ and ‘Phlegm’ elements of PCOS and both treatments are recommended for severe or long-term cases. Once Chinese Herbs have been prescribed a course of acupuncture should follow.
Nutrition and Western Herbal Medicine
Nutrition plays a big part in managing PCOS especially in helping to improve the insulin-resistance and hormonal balances that are typical in this condition. Using a low GI (glycaemic index) and low dairy diet together with exercise and the correct nutrients, insulin-resistance can be improved very quickly which in turn helps to correct hormone imbalances.
Herbal remedies can also be very helpful in reducing testosterone levels and regulating the menstrual cycle and works well alongside nutritional therapy.