Q I'd like to understand exactly what polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is.
A It is a condition in which the ovaries overproduce androgens (male hormones) and ovulation does not occur properly, while ultrasound shows multiple small cysts in the ovaries. It is a common endocrine disorder affecting 5-10% of women of reproductive age.
Detailed Answer
In a normal menstrual cycle, hormones secreted by the pituitary gland (FSH and LH) stimulate the ovaries so that a single follicle matures and ovulation occurs. In PCOS, the LH/FSH ratio becomes imbalanced, so follicles fail to mature and ovulate, remaining instead as multiple immature cysts. As a result, androgens are overproduced, leading to symptoms such as acne, excess hair growth, and hair loss.
Korean Medicine Clinic Perspective
In Korean medicine, this condition is understood as the result of weakened spleen-stomach (bi-wi) function allowing phlegm-dampness (damseup) to accumulate in the body, combined with kidney deficiency (sinheo) depleting the fundamental energy of the ovaries. Just as an orchestra falls into disarray when the conductor loses the beat, the body's hormonal harmony has broken down. We help the ovaries find their own rhythm again by clearing phlegm-dampness and reinforcing the energy of the kidney (sin).
Related FAQs
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Q
Is treating PCOS with Korean medicine alone realistic, or do I have to combine it with OB-GYN care?
#Possibility / Realistic Goals
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Q
Because of PCOS, I keep getting acne on my jaw and cheeks. Do I need to see both a dermatology clinic and a Korean medicine clinic?
#Comorbidities
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Q
I was also told my thyroid function is low. Do hypothyroidism and PCOS sometimes occur together?
#Comorbidities
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Q
How much weight do I need to lose for my period to return? I diet but the weight just won't come off.
#Lifestyle Management
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Q
Please tell me what I can do in daily life to manage PCOS.
#Lifestyle Management