Q I have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and my period is absent for three to four months at a time. Can these two be treated together?
A PCOS and amenorrhea share ovulatory dysfunction as a common basis, so they are treated together. The key is to manage insulin resistance and weight while restoring ovarian function to bring ovulation back.
Detailed Answer
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the common causes of amenorrhea and oligomenorrhea. Because it follows a pathway of insulin resistance leading to excess androgens and then suppressed ovulation, reducing insulin resistance through dietary improvement and weight management is the foundation of treatment. If you are taking conventional medications such as metformin, be sure to inform the prescribing Korean medicine doctor before combining herbal medicine.
Korean Medicine Clinic Perspective
In Korean medicine, PCOS is viewed as a state in which Qi and Blood are knotted and metabolic waste (Damp-Phlegm) has accumulated, suppressing ovarian function. We use formulas that clear away Damp-Phlegm and restore Qi and Blood circulation, aiming to improve insulin resistance and restore ovulation together. For PCOS accompanied by amenorrhea, we add a Qi-regulating (igi) approach to the Blood-tonifying and Blood-invigorating formulas for multilayered treatment.
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