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Remedies for PCOS

PCOS or polycystic ovary syndrome affects many women as it is one of the most common hormonal conditions according to Mayo Clinic. Girls as young as 11 may get it and about five million American women in total are affected. Symptoms include irregular menstrual cycles, infertility, sleep apnea, depression, weight gain, facial hair growth or even acne. It tends to be genetic and if another female in your family has it, you could too.

  1. Eat a Healthy Diet

    • Eat more complex carbohydrates like whole grain breads and vegetables. Cut out simple carbohydrates like cakes and cookies. In general, eating a healthy diet will allow you to lose weight or control it while weight gain aggravates symptoms. Because other medical issues like diabetes are more likely in women who have polycystic ovary syndrome, keeping your weight at a manageable level increases overall health.

    Take Chinese Herbs

    • Dong Quai is an herb used in Chinese medicine to manage hormones according to Native Remedies' website. It is considered a blood tonic and helps regulate progesterone and estrogen balance all cycle long. Controlling hormones is the key.

    Get Regular Exercise

    • Although the exact constellation of conditions and circumstances that lead to PCOS cannot be determined, living a healthy lifestyle seems to manage symptoms. This includes getting regular and consistent exercise to manage weight. Helpful types of activities are walking, swimming, low-impact aerobics and biking.

    Take Medication

    • Taking birth control pills can regulate menstrual cycles and keep symptoms like hair growth under control. Additionally, medications, metformin in particular, that are used for diabetes can be effective in treating PCOS. Some fertility drugs are also prescribed if infertility is a symptom of the condition.

    Have Surgery

    • Laparoscopic ovarian drilling is the actual surgical procedure for PCOS. If other remedies do not alleviate the condition, surgery may be recommended by a medical professional. Lasers are used to isolate areas of concerns and reduce overall androgen levels. This procedure helps the body ovulate and symptoms generally decrease.

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