Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is an endocrine disorder with a spectrum of symptoms, including multiple ovarian cysts, abnormal blood sugar levels, weight gain, elevated androgens, excess hair growth, acne, and irregular periods.

Why it occurs

PCOS is a complex condition caused by a combination of genetic predisposition, dietary and lifestyle factors, and can range in severity from mild cases of acne and slightly irregular period to absent periods, obesity and type II diabetes. The good news is natural medicine and nutritional intervention have significant benefit in managing the condition.

What you can do

The first step is to ensure that you focus on a low glycaemic index, wholefoods diet, and strictly avoid processed carbohydrates and sugar. This promotes blood sugar regulation and healthy body composition.

Magnesium, chromium and inositol assist blood sugar control, as does regular weight-bearing exercise.

PCOS is an oestrogen-dominant condition, where we have too much oestrogen relative to progesterone, so supporting healthy hormone metabolism by making sure the liver and bowel are working well is essential. Broccoli sprout extract, turmeric, rosemary, St Mary’s thistle and B group vitamins can help with this.

Stress is a major trigger factor for PCOS. I often see women in their 30s, who have never had problems with their skin or cycle, present to clinic after a particularly stressful year at work with classic PCOS symptoms. Prolonged stress disrupts adrenal hormones, including DHEA, which is associated with PCOS. So stress management and adrenal support is critical.

Traditionally, we use peony, which is an ovarian herb that normalises the cycle, along with licorice, a powerful adrenal herb.

Treatment varies depending on symptoms, so see your health practitioner for advice.