September is PCOS awareness month: Here is what you should know about this misunderstood and under-diagnosed condition.

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, usually known as PCOS is a relatively common health issue that affects between one in 10 and four in 10 women of childbearing age. Women diagnosed with PCOS experience a wide range of symptoms, from irregular periods to to acne and weight gain. PCOS is often correlated with depression, and often leads to difficulty conceiving.

It is believed PCOS occurs because of hormonal imbalances, although PCOS itself may cause hormonal imbalances. There may be a genetic component, and almost always systemic (body-wide) inflammation. 

PCOS can make regular ovulation difficult to maintain. Getting pregnant can be tough for those with PCOS. But there is good news. The majority of women with PCOS get pregnant with minimal intervention.

If you are worried about PCOS and your fertility, take action now! Visit your family doctor, get a referral to an endocrinologist, develop a plan. Your plan may include lifestyle adjustments including addressing diet and exercise concerns. Your plan may also include addressing total body health including minimizing sources of inflammation and treating hormonal imbalances. Traditional Chinese medicine and acupuncture can be used to treat PCOS. If you would like more information about PCOS and TCM treatments, call us at 416-532-9094.