Polycystic ovarian syndrome, or PCOS, involves a hormonal imbalance in the female reproductive system in which women produce too many male hormones. It can cause irregular menstrual cycles, skin issues, ovarian cysts and possibly infertility. Symptoms of PCOS include abnormal periods, unexplained weight gain and increased hair growth on the face, abdomen and chest. A diagnosis is made through a series of blood tests for hormone levels and pelvic ultrasounds. Standard treatments will usually address individual symptoms of PCOS, but alternative treatments are available as well. According to Healthline, alternate therapies work by re-balancing hormones to the proper levels.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture, a technique of traditional Chinese medicine, involves inserting needles into the skin at specific points. It is said to balance the energy of the individual. According to Medical News Today, acupuncture works to decrease the sympathetic nerve activity that causes insulin resistance and obesity in women suffering from PCOS. Acupuncture was shown to regulate periods and decrease testosterone levels.
Exercise
Maintaining a healthy weight is often a problem for women with PCOS. The weight gain that occurs is very difficult to overcome. The excess weight contributes to some of the other negative effects of PCOS. Exercise is necessary to combat the weight gain. Although it will not directly target symptoms of PCOS, exercise will increase overall health by decreasing blood sugar, lowering blood pressure and increasing fertility.
Dietary Changes
Eating a healthy diet is a simple way to curb symptoms of PCOS. Choosing nutritious foods helps to combat the weight gain and insulin resistance that are a part of a PCOS diagnosis. Healthy foods provide protection from cardiovascular problems and high blood pressure that are sometimes present with PCOS. According to WebMD Women's Health, weight loss of 10 lbs. can aid in balancing the hormones and menstrual cycle.
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