What is PCOS?
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent hormonal disorder affecting women of reproductive age, characterized by hormonal imbalances leading to irregular menstrual cycles, infertility, acne, and excess facial or body hair. Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination, medical history review, blood tests, and possibly ultrasounds to detect ovarian cysts. Hormonal tests may also be conducted to confirm PCOS.
Symptoms of PCOS include irregular menstruation, infertility, acne, excess hair growth, weight gain, scalp hair thinning, and emotional challenges like depression and anxiety. Additionally, women with PCOS may experience sleep disturbances, fatigue, and pelvic pain.
PCOS carries various health risks, including a heightened susceptibility to type 2 diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, uterine cancer, and metabolic syndrome. Irregular menstrual cycles may lead to infertility and complications during pregnancy. Hormonal imbalances can also contribute to depression and anxiety in affected individuals.
Although considered largely untreatable in Western medicine, managing PCOS focuses on symptom alleviation and reducing associated risks like diabetes and heart disease. Strategies include regular exercise to maintain cardiovascular health and manage weight, stress reduction to mitigate symptom severity, and adopting a low-inflammatory diet to improve quality of life and minimize symptoms. Additionally, acupuncture can aid in pain relief associated with PCOS and help regulate the nervous system, thereby impacting hormone levels.
For more information on acupuncture and PCOS support in Auckland, Please visit our acupuncturist in New Lynn Acupuncture.