How to Cure PCOS Permanently: Tips, Home Remedies, and More

PCOS, an abbreviation for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, commonly affects women of reproductive age due to an imbalance in endocrine glands leading to increased androgen levels. PCOS  patients have higher androgen production, contributing to various symptoms. Auric provides an in-depth guide.

Medical studies indicate that PCOS may stem from genetics or environmental factors, characterized by multiple small cysts in the ovaries. These cysts contain immature eggs and fluid.

PCOS sufferers may experience irregular or prolonged menstrual periods, along with elevated androgen levels. Ovaries may fail to release eggs regularly as they would in a healthy state.

If you are looking for how to cure PCOS permanently, it is essential to highlight that there is no known cure for PCOS. Diagnosing PCOS early and following it up with the appropriate PCOS treatment can reduce the risk of complications associated with PCOS, such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease. 

To reiterate, there is no PCOS treatment available. Making lifestyle changes and using home remedies have proven effective at keeping PCOS effects at bay. 

PCOS Symptoms

The PCOS symptoms and signs are many. They may develop around puberty at the time of the first menstrual cycle. In some cases, PCOS symptoms manifest themselves later when there is substantial weight gain, for example. 

• Irregular Menstrual Cycles

One of the most common symptoms of PCOS is irregular, infrequent, or prolonged menstrual cycles. For instance, monthly periods may cease or have extended gaps between them, and some women may experience abnormally heavy menstrual flow.

• Skin Hyperpigmentation

PCOS can lead to dark patches of skin on various body areas, notably in the neck folds, armpits, groin, and under the breasts.

• Elevated Androgen Levels

Another symptom of PCOS is increased levels of male hormones in females. This may result in physical manifestations like excessive facial and body hair (hirsutism), occasional severe acne, and male-pattern baldness.

• Polycystic Ovarian Morphology

In certain cases, PCOS may cause enlarged ovaries with the appearance of follicles around the eggs. Consequently, this condition may affect the optimal functioning of the ovaries.

PCOS Causes

Even though the exact cause of PCOS hasn’t been discovered, certain factors play a role in its occurrence. These include:

• Excess Insulin in the Body

Carbohydrates ingested are broken down in the intestines into glucose, serving as an energy source. Subsequently, glucose enters the bloodstream, elevating blood sugar levels.

Insulin, released by the pancreas, regulates blood glucose levels by storing it in cells for future energy use. If insulin regulation is impaired, androgen production may rise, impacting the ovulation cycle.

• Heredity

Genetic factors can influence the manifestation of PCOS symptoms. Research indicates that certain genes may be responsible for PCOS in females.

Complications that arise from PCOS may include:

• Infertility
• Gestational diabetes associated with pregnancy.
• Premature labor or miscarriage.
• MetS - a group of conditions including high blood sugar and abnormally high cholesterol levels, potentially raising cardiovascular disease risk.
• T2D (Type 2 diabetes)
• Sleep apnea
• Mood disorders, anxiety, and eating disorders

PCOS Treatment and Diagnosis

If you suspect you might have PCOS and are exploring ways to cure it permanently, it is advisable to consult your doctor for further guidance.

Please be aware that PCOS cannot be diagnosed through a single test. Your doctor will inquire about your medical history, especially regarding your menstrual cycle and weight fluctuations. Subsequently, a physical examination will be conducted to assess signs of excessive hair growth, insulin resistance, and acne.

Your physician might suggest a pelvic examination to assess the reproductive organs, blood tests for hormone and cholesterol level analysis, and an ultrasound if required.

Once PCOS is diagnosed, regular monitoring of blood pressure, glucose tolerance, and cholesterol levels will be implemented. Additionally, screening for depression, anxiety, and sleep apnoea might become necessary.

Procedures to Induce Pregnancy

The following procedures can be performed to induce pregnancy in women who have PCOS. 

• Medication to Induce Ovulation

The initial step for a successful pregnancy is ovulation. Certain drugs can induce ovulation in women. Some are taken orally, while others are injected.

Surgery

Sometimes, surgery is necessary to enhance ovulation odds. Ovarian drilling triggers ovulation by removing androgen hormone-producing tissues. However, with newer medicines, surgical procedures become mostly unnecessary.

• In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF)

During this procedure, the female egg is fertilized with the partner's sperm in a lab and then transferred to the uterus. IVF is used for women with PCOS when medication or surgery are not viable options for encouraging ovulation.

Curbing Symptoms of PCOS Using Home Remedies

It should be acknowledged that no permanent cure exists for PCOS, and its complete elimination is not possible. However, a combination of lifestyle adjustments and home remedies could mitigate certain PCOS symptoms and serve as a partial treatment. Adherence to these changes is crucial for effective PCOS management.

• Lifestyle Changes That Help With PCOS Treatment

Promoting weight loss with a low-calorie diet and moderate exercise offers viable options for PCOS treatment. A modest weight reduction can contribute to a decrease in PCOS symptoms and improve the efficacy of prescribed medications, bringing one closer to finding a lasting solution for PCOS.

• Maintaining Sleep Hygiene

Natural Methods of PCOS Treatment and Ways to Improve Fertility

PCOS can hinder conception for affected women, particularly those overweight. Besides weight reduction, several natural methods can enhance fertility.

Following are some home remedies to alleviate PCOS symptoms and aid in its treatment:

• Cinnamon

Cinnamon is a frequently utilized spice that contains cinnamaldehyde, aiding in insulin resistance reduction. Insulin resistance impacts the menstrual cycle. Cinnamon consumption stimulates progesterone hormone production, balancing hormones and decreasing testosterone levels. Cinnamon powder complements juices, soups, salads, and porridges, enhancing flavors while controlling adverse PCOS effects.

• Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple Cider Vinegar, commonly known as ACV, is a versatile home remedy for various health issues. It aids in acne control, reducing hair fall, and minimizing the risk of obesity. ACV possesses anti-glycemic properties, contributing to insulin level regulation and PCOS symptom management. For optimal results, combine one tablespoon of ACV with warm water, and consume it on an empty stomach.

• Green Tea

Green Tea has catechins, antioxidants aiding PCOS symptom relief by positively affecting body hormones. It manages weight gain, crucial for PCOS. Add a teaspoon of Green Tea to boiling water. Let it sit for 5 minutes to infuse goodness. Drink twice daily for PCOS benefits.

Jeera, or Cumin seeds, a kitchen staple, and popular PCOS remedy, contains antioxidants and chemicals that regulate blood glucose. Include nearly a teaspoon of cumin powder in a water glass and let it simmer for 2 minutes. After cooling, it's ready for consumption. Reiterate this twice daily to alleviate PCOS symptoms.

• Licorice

Licorice is commonly employed in Ayurvedic remedies, serving as an excellent medicinal herb to regulate male hormone levels, a major factor in PCOS. Licorice reduces inflammation, insulin resistance, and stress, addressing PCOS-causing factors when monitored. Infuse licorice into a tea by adding a one-inch dry root to boiled water and resting for 10 minutes. Drink the mix after this time; it's an effective home remedy for PCOS.

• Pumpkin Seeds

Pumpkin seeds promote good health due to their rich nutrients and healthy fats that help regulate cholesterol and insulin. Pumpkin seeds contain beta-sitosterol that lowers androgen levels and treats PCOS symptoms like hirsutism, acne, and weight gain. Add to curries, salads, or smoothies, or enjoy as a healthy snack.
Besides the mentioned natural remedies, Cannabis oil has gained attention for PCOS treatment. Preliminary research suggests it eases anxiety and insomnia, common in PCOS.

Conclusion:

PCOS affects 25% of Indian women, with additional undiagnosed cases due to limited awareness. It poses a substantial global concern, being a leading cause of infertility.

While a permanent cure for PCOS remains elusive to the medical community, extensive research suggests the benefits of using common kitchen ingredients and medicines to alleviate symptoms.

Seeking guidance from experts, and following an ideal diet and medication, helps manage PCOS effects effectively.

 

Authored By : Poorvi Chhajer

About Author : Poorvi is a psychology graduate with a knack for writing and belief in ayurveda.