Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), also known by the name Stein-Leventhal syndrome, is a hormonal problem that causes women to have a variety of symptoms. It should be noted that most women with the condition have a number of small cysts in the ovaries. However, women may have cysts in the ovaries for a number of reasons, and it is the characteristic constellation of symptoms, rather than the presence of the cysts themselves, that is important in establishing the PCOS diagnosis.
PCOS occurs in 5% to 10% of women and is the most common cause of infertility in women. PCOS symptoms may begin in adolescence with menstrual irregularities , or a woman may not know she has PCOS until later in life when symptoms and/or infertility occur. Women of all ethnicities may be affected.
Four therapeutic methods for PCOS in TCM
Kidney asthenia syndrome
Therapeutic methods: Nourishing the kidney to replenish essence, regulating and nourishing the thoroughfare and conception vessels.
Phlegm-dampness syndrome
Therapeutic methods: Resolving phlegm and eliminating dampness, regulating qi and menstruation.
Syndrome of liver depression transforming into fire
Therapeutic methods: Soothing the liver to relieve depression and clearing away heat to reduce fire.
Syndrome of qi stagnation and blood stasis
Therapeutic methods: Regulating qi and activating blood, resolving stasis and regulating menstruation.