Brian Kwon Acupuncture PCOS is the most common cause of ovulatory dysfunction in premenopausal women. The exact cause of PCOS is unknown.
Ovulatory disorders make up 20-30% of the known causes of female infertility. Ovulation disorders can be divided into oligo ovulation (once every few months) or anovulation (no ovulation). The chance of being pregnant decreases with less frequent ovulation.
When two or more of the following criteria are met, a PCOS diagnosis is given:
- Increased levels of androgens
- Irregular ovulation, which is usually indicated by an irregular cycle or no cycle
- At least 12 tiny cysts or follicles developed in your ovaries (a reason why it is called polycystic)
A healthy diet and regular exercise/activity can help you maintain a proper weight and reduce its symptoms. Lowering weight can help your body use insulin more efficiently. However, sudden changes in diet or physical activities can disrupt your endocrine function and thus it is important to make the changes gradually.
Medications such as clomiphene (ovulatory stimulant) or diabetes medication to lower insulin resistance can help you ovulate depending on whether you plan to become pregnant or not. Please make sure to consult your doctor to avoid any serious health problems before doing so.
If you plan to become pregnant, acupuncture can help to ovulate with almost no side effects
