PCOS: POLYCYSTIC OVARIAN SYNDROME
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) affects approximately 5%-10% of women in North America and is recognized as the leading cause of infertility. Treating PCOS naturally with acupuncture can be very effective.
The condition is characterized by elevated levels of male hormones (androgens), which interfere with eggs’ normal release from the ovaries’ follicles. Consequently, the ovaries become filled with cysts or produce immature follicles incapable of developing into eggs.
Classic symptoms of PCOS include:
- Obesity.
- Polycystic ovaries (ovarian cysts resembling a strand of pearls).
- High androgen levels.
- Irregular or absent menstrual cycles.
- Possible ovulation issues
However, it is essential to note that not all individuals diagnosed with PCOS experience these specific symptoms.
The precise cause of PCOS remains unknown. While it is common for women with PCOS to have a family history of the condition, research has yet to establish a definitive genetic link. Since many individuals with PCOS also struggle with weight issues, scientists are investigating the relationship between PCOS and the body’s insulin production. Insulin, a hormone that regulates the conversion of sugar and other foods into energy or storage, can be affected by PCOS, leading to increased androgen levels, which may result in acne, excessive hair growth, weight gain, and ovulation problems.
Additionally, environmental pollutants can act as endocrine disruptors and contribute to the dysfunction of follicles. This process is believed to result from an altered feedback mechanism within the Hypothalamus-Pituitary-Ovarian axis, which controls hormone secretion in the body.
Common symptoms of PCOS include:
Excessive hair growth on the face, nipple area, and lower abdomen, irregular or infrequent periods, abnormal insulin levels and insulin resistance, late or absent ovulation, elevated Prolactin levels, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), excessive weight gain, acne, oily skin, the presence of polycystic ovaries, and the development of skin tags.
PCOS, or Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, impacts fertility and poses various health risks for both mother and baby.
These include:
- Increased likelihood of Type II diabetes
- Gestational diabetes
- Elevated risk of cardiovascular disease
- Adverse lipid patterns (typically high triglycerides)
- Reduced bone density
Diagnosing PCOS
Involves recognizing a set of criteria rather than solely relying on the presence of polycystic ovaries, as it is a complex condition. It may not always manifest as polycystic ovaries in some women.
Diagnostic factors for PCOS include assessing levels of the following hormones:
- Luteinizing Hormone (LH)
- Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH)
- Estradiol
- Progesterone
- Prolactin
- Free testosterone
- Free androgen index (FAI): 17-hydroxyprogesterone
- Sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG): 24 hr. urinary free cortisol
- Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S)
If you have concerns about PCOS, it is advisable to seek medical advice and professional services for accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.
- Endometrial Biopsy
- Glucose Tolerance Test
- Thyroid Panel
- Blood Lipid Profile
Acupuncture and Functional Medicine at Garnet Moon Denver are expert and comprehensive services offering safe, effective, drug-free, and natural approaches to restoring optimal hormonal and sympathetic nervous system function. Our integrative treatment options also help rebalance the nerve and blood supply to the ovaries. Many patients have experienced restored ovarian function and achieved pregnancy through the personalized treatment programs at Garnet Moon Denver. The best women’s health functional medicine in Denver and treat PCOS naturally with acupuncture.
Clinical studies have demonstrated that acupuncture, when performed two or more times a week, provides exceptional benefits in the management of PCOS, including:
- Facilitating weight loss
- Increasing insulin sensitivity
- Reducing blood glucose and lipid levels
- Regulating endocrine, neuroendocrine, and metabolic disturbances
- Increasing endorphins
- Boosting immune function
- Improving blood flow to the ovaries. Treat PCOS naturally with acupuncture.
