What It Is, Causes, Signs, FAQs & Homeopathic Treatment of PCOS
PCOS is the most common hormonal disorder prevailing in females in the reproductive age group and has become the most cumbersome gynecological troubles seen today.It disturbs the menstrual cycle tremendously and women are never certain about ‘that time of the month’.
That is why PCOS is the most common cause of infertility.
Few years back, a lady was sure of the date of the cycle and she would plan all her activities accordingly. That is not the case anymore! 6 out of 10 girls do not have a fixed cycle and day-by-day, it is getting worse.
What happens in PCOS?
PCOS is characterized by numerous, small sac-like cavities known as cysts in the ovaries and hence the name Polycystic Ovarian Disease or Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS).
- Menstrual disturbances like absence of periods, scanty periods, and irregular periods.
- Difficulty in conceiving.
- Unexplained weight gain.
- Abnormal and excessive hair growth on face, chest, abdomen, back, etc.
- Acne, oily face, dandruff.
- Pain in the lowermost part of abdomen.
- Anxiety or depression.
Home Remedies
Do’s
- Make sure that proper weight is maintained. If you are overweight, reduce it by doing exercises regularly and having a healthy balanced diet.
- Practice Yoga Asanas and Prananyam regularly.
- Have adequate sleep.
- Maintain a record of your menstrual cycle.
Don’ts
- Do not smoke.
- Limit alcohol.
- Don’t skip meals or sleep. A disciplined lifestyle is key to better health and freedom from PCOS.
- Avoid Hormonal treatment as far as possible.
Diet and Nutrition
Foods to include
- Green, leafy vegetables: They have the most nutrients per calorie than any other food. They are rich in iron, calcium, potassium, and magnesium, as well as vitamins K, C, E, and many of the B Complex vitamins. Vitamin B in particular plays a vital role in managing PCOS symptoms.
- Fruits: They are rich sources of fibre, vitamins and minerals and are very helpful for managing PCOS. Keep in mind, though, to have fruits containing less amount of sugar, like cherries, plums, grapefruit, apples, pears, dried apricots, grapes, kiwi fruit, oranges and prunes.
- Coloured Vegetables: Brightly colored vegetables like bell peppers, pumpkin, carrots, artichokes and purple cabbage are rich sources of anti-oxidants and must be included in a PCOS diet.
- Fats: These healthy fats are found in nuts and seeds, oily fish, avocado and olive oil so be sure to incorporate those into your diet.
Foods to avoid
- Food that elevate the blood sugar levels should be strictly avoided. For e.g. White rice, mashed potatoes, rice cakes, muffins and cakes, bread, etc.
- Dairy Products: Milk leads to a rise in testosterone levels, which can further trouble the condition of PCOS.
- Soy Products: Soy has been shown to delay ovulation, and so should not be had by females who want to conceive.
- Bad Fats: Bad fats found in red meat, cooking oil, margarine and processed foods increase the chances of obesity and in turn, PCOS.
What is the best treatment for PCOS?
Homeopathic treatment for PCOS has excellent success rate because it offers a more holistic approach in the treatment of the condition.
- Calcarea Carbonica: Of great use in females having profuse menses that come earlier than date. Patient is full of fears, anxieties, obesity and is usually constipated.
- Lycopodium: In patients who have delayed menses that last too long, accompanied by right sided abdominal pain. Patient is nervous, timid and lacks confidence.
- Pulsatilla: In patients with absence of menses, or scanty menses, with dark clots. Patient is emotional, attention seeking and fears men. No menses for many many months.
It is, however, worthwhile to remember that self-medication is not recommended.
FAQs
Q. My elder sister has PCOS. Is it possible that I will get it too? Can I prevent it? A. Having a family history of PCOS increases you chances of getting PCOS compared to those girls who do not have a family history. But you should undertake certain preventive measures like following a healthy diet, exercises, doing yoga and pranayama regularly.
Q. I am a working woman and my personal and professional schedules are very hectic. I have a very stressful lifestyle and I tend to skip meals. I have been recently diagnosed with PCOS. What steps can I take to get rid of the disease? A. What you have told us is a textbook picture of how PCOS develops. Irregular food timings, bad sleep habits and a stressful lifestyle all contribute to hormonal imbalance and in turn PCOS. The first step you need to take is to correct your lifestyle.
Make sure to never skip meals. Have 4-5 small, healthy meals in a day if you do not get many breaks from work. Secondly, make sure you get atleast 7 hours of sleep. Lastly, stress is the worst assault you can inflict on your body. Regular meditation will help to reduce stress. Homeopathic medicines help you to cope with various stresses and deal with PCOS.
Q. I am a young student. My diet is very healthy and I make sure that I get adequate exercise. Why then do I have PCOS? A. Maintain weight through healthy diet and exercising is definitely one of the important factors in combating PCOS and you should continue to do so. However, although the manifestations of PCOS are seen on a physical level, the cause can be traced back to emotional issues in most cases.