Many times, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is confused with polycystic ovaries (PCO). PCOS is not always present in people with PCO. For some other reason, a polycystic pattern might happen to be discovered accidentally during a pelvic scan. You are normal if your scan results show polycystic ovaries, but you have regular periods and no symptoms.
Metabolic disturbances are underlying in over 80% of women with PCOS. Females with PCOS produce high levels of male hormones from their ovaries. These male hormones affect the menstrual cycle and cause other symptoms. Changes in ovarian follicles and ovarian hormone production can be brought on by insulin. There are four different types of PCOS; insulin-resistant PCOS, post-pill PCOS, inflammatory PCOS, and adrenal PCOS.
It is significant to remember that the fluid-filled ovaries structures linked to PCO are not, strictly speaking, cysts. The ova/eggs develop in follicles found in the ovary, which are naturally filled with fluid. Typically, the ovary develops two to five follicles at a time, which are dispersed throughout the structure.
The hallmark of PCO is a higher number of follicles that develop concurrently, typically more than twelve arranged in a circle, giving the appearance of pearl necklaces. Compared to normal ovaries, polycystic ovaries are larger and appear slightly different.
In addition to PCO, polycystic ovary syndrome is characterised by a number of symptoms, usually:
- Overgrowth of body hair
- Acne and additional skin issues
- Loss of scalp hair
- missing or erratic periods
- Heavy periods
- Fertility problems
- Insulin resistance
- Weight issues
Pelvic pain does not result from PCOS, which is a hormone condition. Should you encounter pelvic pain along with some of the listed symptoms, it may be something else exacerbating the pain (e.g. possibly endometriosis). Although you can have PCOS and endometriosis concurrently.
Only after ruling out other possible causes and exhibiting two of the following three symptoms can PCOS be diagnosed:
- Irregular periods (usually fewer than six periods per year)
- Blood tests or symptoms suggesting male hormone excess
- Polycystic ovaries visible on ultrasound
Controlling PCOS symptoms is largely dependent on lifestyle factors like exercise and a diet that is low in carbohydrates and has a low GI-glycaemic index. For instance, PCOS symptoms can be exacerbated by insulin resistance and obesity.
Naturopathy is a broad category of complementary medicine that includes nutrition, lifestyle factors, herbal medicine, and supplementation. The goal of treatment is to enhance overall health and encourage lifestyle choices that lessen the disorder’s manifestation. Diet, supplementation, and herbal medicine are used to balance hormones, enhance metabolic function, and regulate menstruation. Some supplements that may be helpful for PCOS are:
- Inositol
- Magnesium
- Vitamin Bs
- Calcium
- Zinc
- Omega-3s
- Chromium
- DIM
- N-acetylcysteine (NAC)
- Adaptogenic herbs
- Anti-androgen herbs
The type of supplements required will depend on the type of PCOS!
The natural approach
If you suspect you suffer from PCOS, reach out to us. We’ll guide you through the various ways that natural medicine can help, and provide you with a comprehensive treatment plan. Book below.
Yvette is a qualified Naturopath and Nutritionist, MINDD Practitioner, member of the Naturopaths and Herbalists Association of Australia.
Yvette specialises in the treatment of gut health and digestive complaints, skin issues, mood disorders, hormonal concerns, fatigue, and more.
Yvette consults Australia-wide.
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