More than Pain and Infertility…The Suffering and Mental Distress of PCOS.
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a hormone imbalance that causes infertility, obesity, and excessive facial hair in women, can also lead to severe mental health issues including anxiety, depression, and eating disorders.
A study supervised by Columbia University School of Nursing professor Nancy Reame, MSN, PhD, FAAN, and published in the Journal of Behavioral Health Services & Research, identifies the PCOS complications that may be most responsible for psychiatric problems. While weight gain and unwanted body hair can be distressing, irregular menstrual cycles are the symptom of PCOS most strongly associated with psychiatric problems, the study found.
“We were surprised to find that menstrual abnormalities in women with PCOS was the strongest predictor for mental health issues, particularly when there are so many other symptoms—like beard growth and infertility—that can make a woman feel unfeminine,” says senior author Nancy Reame, the Mary Dickey Lindsay Professor of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion at Columbia Nursing. “The study findings suggest that we can’t treat PCOS effectively unless we pay close attention to any signs of mental distress.” (Bailey, Williams, Anand, 2014)
What is PCOS?
Polycystic ovary syndrome is a hormonal disorder common among women of reproductive age. Women with PCOS may have infrequent or prolonged menstrual periods or excess male hormone (androgen) levels. The ovaries may develop numerous small collections of fluid (follicles) and fail to regularly release eggs. The exact cause of PCOS is unknown. Early diagnosis and treatment along with weight loss may reduce the risk of long-term complications such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease. (Mayo Clinic staff, 2020)
What are the symptoms and causes of PCOS?
Irregular periods-Infrequent, prolonged, and sometimes heavy periods. Excess Androgen or male hormones. Polycystic ovaries which are ovaries that are enlarged and covered with follicles that surround the eggs. Signs and symptoms can be more severe in obese women. (Mayo Clinic staff, 2020)
Common Medical Treatment for PCOS
Medications may sometimes include Metformin, Troglitazone, Aromatase Inhibitors, Glucocorticoids and Gonadotropins. However, weight reduction is recommended through diet, exercise, and potentially bariatric surgery. (Badawy and Elnashar, 2011)
Functional Medicine and Functional Neurology for the treatment of PCOS
Functional Medicine for the treatment of PCOS involves a relationship between a patient and their Functional Medicine Practitioner. Looking at more than just the symptoms, they discover the core reasoning for this medical condition including obesity, diet, medical history, reproductive and menstrual cycle issues. This could be through testing checking for other health related disorders as well. Blood and other laboratory tests, review of lifestyle, environmental factors and diet both historically and currently are reviewed before a treatment plan is devised. When testing is complete, the patient and doctor develop this treatment plan that may include diet and lifestyle changes, supplementation, exercise, and holistic therapies.
HOCATT or Hyperthermic Ozone and Carbonic Acid Treatment Therapy
HOCATT therapy uses a combination of powerful modalities to detox the body down to the cellular level, boost energy and strengthen the immune system. The main modality is Transdermal Ozone which is generated from pure oxygen. Research shows that gynecological issues can often be overcome with the help of Ozone. Vaginal insufflation is recommended because many infections prevent conception and lower fertility. 100% of vaginitis can be overcome with Ozone insufflation.
PRESSOTHERAPY
Pressotherapy helps the body by boosting both blood circulation and lymphatic drainage to help rid the body of toxins and waste products. This aids in weight loss, improves metabolism and reduces swelling and water weight.
HYPERBARIC THERAPY
Hyperbaric Therapy – has three times higher than normal air pressure. Oxygen is dissolved into all the body’s fluids and carried to areas where circulation is diminished or blocked. In this way, extra oxygen can reach damaged tissues and the body can support its own healing process. Hyperbaric chamber therapy is very comfortable, non-invasive and one of the lowest risk medical treatments available.
TESTING
THERMOGRAPHY-Thermography detects chronic inflammation. Chronic inflammation occurs when your immune system gets permanently set to “on”. As a result, it constantly releases a flood of damaging chemicals that could sicken your cells like a “forest fire that never goes out”. Thermography has the unique ability to see the abnormal heat changes produced by disease. This allows for early disease detection.
AO DIGITAL BODY SCAN-Can detect and address issues such as reproductive function, digestive function, organ, and thyroid function and much, much more. A 15-minute scan produces a 24-page report that clearly defines the areas that can be addressed with the help of our doctor.
To learn more call Michigan Health and Wellness for a FREE consultation. Functional Medicine, Functional Neurology, and their relation to the holistic treatment of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome are managed by our clinical director, Dr. Tony Aboudib, DC. Dr. Aboudib attended post-graduate studies at Carrick Institute for graduate studies in clinical neuroscience, American Functional Neurology Institute, Functional Medicine University, Institute of Functional Medicine and Kharrazian Institute for graduate studies. For more information call 231-421-5213 or click here to go to our Contact Us page to schedule a free consultation.
Disclaimer: The information provided in our blog posts is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. While we strive to share knowledge and insights on health-related topics, this content should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional regarding any medical concerns or decisions related to your health and well-being.
REFERENCES:
Beth Bailey, Stacey Williams, Sheeba Anand. (January 2014). Differential Contributions of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) Manifestations to Psychological Symptoms. Columbia School of Nursing. Psychiatric Complications in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Most Often Linked to Menstrual Irregularities | Columbia School of Nursing
Mayo Clinic Staff. (October 2020). Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) Mayo Clinic. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic
Ahmed Badawy and Abubaker Elnashar. (February 2011). Treatment Options for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. National Institute of Health. Treatment options for polycystic ovary syndrome (nih.gov)
