What is PCOS / Poly Cycstic Ovary Syndrome?
PCOS is a whole body hormone condition, not just a period problem.
When follicle sacs within the ovaries fail to develop properly, they can cause cysts on the ovary surface (hence the term poly = many and cystic = follicles). These can interfere with ovulation because the hormones needed to support ovulation are not working correctly.
It’s relatively common for women to have polycystic ovaries – and in fact teenagers are very likely to have polycystic ovaries and be considered ‘normal’.
Not everyone with these types of cysts has PCOS – unless you also have raised levels of luteinising hormone (LH) and testosterone.
PCOS is really a group of symptoms, related to lack of ovulation and higher levels of male-type hormones (androgens).
What are the symptoms of PCOS?
Irregular or late bleeds (irregular bleeds are typical of cycles with NO ovulation)
Long bleeds
Excessive facial or body hair
Acne
Hair loss
Weight gain
Infertility
Commonly prescribed treatment options for PCOS include the contraceptive pill, anti-androgen drugs, and metformin.
Some of these will not be suitable if you are trying to conceive or want to get your cycles regulated in a more natural way. They also rely on knowing which type of PCOS is driving your condition – i.e. insulin-resistant, post-pill, inflammatory or adrenal.
As a fertility reflexologist, I use a holistic approach, which includes sharing information on nutrition, lifestyle changes and supplements. I use fertility reflexology to help your menstrual cycle rebalance, reminding your body what it needs to do to reduce your symptoms and get those hormones properly flowing.
How can you help yourself? Lots of different things can help, but as above, find out what kind of PCOS you have in order to make the right changes.
Need help with that? Get in touch via the ‘book now’ button, or click here.