I'm doing a blog post on this subject because I know a few people who are suffering through this. I'm hoping that this will answer questions, raise awareness, and give you a few options.
PCOS is the short title for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (also known as PCOD). Medical professionals still aren't certain of what causes PCOS. The symptoms vary from person to person and may include abnormal and irregular periods which last for weeks, or longer, acne, weight gain which is difficult to lose, hormonal imbalance, infertility, and excessive hair growth to name a few. There are also cysts that grow on the ovaries and can be very painful if they rupture.
Medical treatment for PCOS may recommend birth control pills to regulate your hormones and menstrual cycle (I know of a lady who used this method, but her body became dependent on the pills). For women who are trying to conceive an anti-estrogen medicine may be prescribed. It seems that most of the treatments work on balancing your hormones. In other cases, the doctor tries to regulate the body's insulin. As with all medication, there are side effects, so be sure to question your doctor about these.
There are some natural alternatives that are available. The combination of Maca and Vitex has been helpful to the lady's that I know that are trying to help their PCOS. Together these two herbs help to regulate the body's hormones. Another combination of herbs in one bottle that helps to regulate hormones is called Female Harmony by Crystal Star Labs.
Along with these herbs, you should also take a good look at your nutrition. The weight gain and the insulin resistance could be controlled through your diet. What kind of foods do you eat? Are there artificial ingredients or preservatives? Does your food contain enough vitamins and minerals? Or, do you go about your day and "forget" to eat an adequate amount? All of these things can have an effect on PCOS.
I wrote a post on what to eat after our body has been through a traumatic event- bone broth, gelatin, cod liver oil, probiotics, and exercise. I believe that those recommendations would also help with PCOS. Along with this, you would want to add Magnesium and Chromium to your diet. Both of these wonderful minerals help with blood sugar, blood glucose levels, and insulin.
If you are suffering from PCOS, I pray that the Lord gives you guidance and wisdom, as well as his grace!
