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Brigitte Linder Adv. Dip. Traditional Chinese Medicine registered Acupuncturist, Herbalist & Dispenser www.brigittelinder.com.au Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
PCOS is one of the most common endocrine (hormonal) disorders in young females. It’s a
complex and diverse conditions with uncertain causes. There is strong evidence that it’s a
hereditary condition. PCOS creates symptoms in about 5 – 10% of women at their
reproductive age (12 – 45 years of age) and it’s one of the leading causes of subfertility.
- Lack of ovulation due to excessive amounts of androgenic (masculizing) hormones - Hirsutism = male hair growth pattern - Acne - Insulin resistance and obesity - Type II diabetes - High cholesterol levels - Polycystic ovaries = many small ovarian fol icles due to disturbed ovarian function - Possibly elevated androstenedione and testosterone levels - Day 3 of cycle tests frequently reveal a ratio of LH (Lutenizing Hormone) and FSH (Fol icle Stimulating Hormone) that is greater than 1:1 There is considerable debate as to optimal treatment or management of PCOS. General intervention to reduce weight or insulin resistance can be beneficial because it’s believed to be underlying cause. Reducing insulin resistance with medication such as metformin (Type II Diabetes) and thiazolidimedione (glitazones) have been an obvious approach and after initial effective results, randomised control trials have failed to produce promising results. PCOS associated infertility treatment in WM For overweight, anovulatory women with PCOS, weight loss and dietary adjustments are essential. Ovulation inducing medication such as clomiphene citrate and FSH are the principal treatments to stimulate ovulation. If there is no response to clomiphene, diet and lifestyle modification, assisted reproductive technology such as (IVF) is an option. Brigitte Linder Adv. Dip. Traditional Chinese Medicine registered Acupuncturist, Herbalist & Dispenser www.brigittelinder.com.au Polycystic ovaries are also treated with a laparoscopic procedure called ovarian dril ing. This procedure includes puncturing 4 – 10 small fol icles with elctrocautery, laser or biopsy needles which can result in spontaneous resumption in ovulation. Management and/or Treatment in Chinese Medicine The treatment of PCOS in Chinese Medicine is based on pattern differentiation and hence not everyone will be treated with the same Acupuncture or herbal formula prescriptions. Ovarian cysts are considered as abdominal masses and is characterised by dampness and phlegm accumulation and stasis of blood plus an underlying Kidney deficiency. In some individuals there is more phlegm in others there is more blood stasis. Based on this, we can customise both Acupuncture and herbal treatment. Dietary advice according to Chinese Medicine Because dampness and phlegm is formed by certain foods in the body, certain food categories need to be minimised (if not eliminated) these are: - Reduce foods high in saturated fats such as: o Dairy foods (butter, cheese, yoghurt, ice-cream) o Meat o Mayonnaise o Fried foods o Palm oil and coconut oil o Cakes & jams o Processed foods (sugar is a preservative) o Jams If you are overweight, look at strategies on how to lose weight. Keep up a regular routine of exercise this is most important for maintaining a healthy weight, good sleep and a healthy and inspired mind. If you have any questions relating to your personal situation, please do not hesitate to contact me at

Source: http://brigittelinder.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/PCOS.pdf