Q I work a lot of late nights and have high stress, and my irregular periods seem to be getting worse. Does stress also affect PCOS?
A Stress causes the adrenal glands to secrete more cortisol and androgens, worsening PCOS symptoms. Lack of sleep also reduces the ability to control blood sugar, increasing insulin resistance.
Detailed Answer
Under chronic stress, the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis becomes overactive and cortisol and androgens are oversecreted. This disrupts the LH secretion pattern and leads to a vicious cycle that worsens ovulation disorders. Staying awake between 11 PM and 1 AM disrupts the body's hormonal recovery cycle, so regular sleep, going to bed and waking at the same times, is important.
Korean Medicine Clinic Perspective
In Korean medicine, when stress causes liver-qi stagnation (ganki-ulgyeol), the circulation of qi and blood becomes blocked, making it easier for phlegm-dampness and blood stasis to accumulate. Along with treatment, we use herbs that help relieve the energy of the liver and provide lifestyle coaching on sleep and breathing management.
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