Positive Options for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Self-Help and Treatment »

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, a condition set up by hormonal imbalances, affects ovulation, metabolism, and the cardiovascular system and can contribute to such problems as multiple miscarriages, diabetes, high cholesterol, heart disease, and endometrial cancer. While serious, it is often difficult to diagnose because symptoms can seem unrelated. Written for the layperson, this book puts it all together in an accessible format: individual health issues, getting a diagnosis, plus traditional and alternative treatments that have worked for others.

Contents

Authors' Note....................ix
Introduction....................1
Chapter 1: What Is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome?....................2
Irregular or Absent Periods....................4
Hirsutism....................5
Infertility....................5
Weight Gain/Being Overweight....................6
Acne....................7
Dealing with Embarrassing Symptoms....................8
A Condition to Be Taken Seriously....................10
What Does It Feel Like to Suffer from PCOS?....................10
Can the Cysts Linked to PCOS Be Removed?....................11
Is PCOS Curable?....................12
Chapter 2: What Causes Polycystic Ovary Syndrome?....................13
A Familial Link....................13
Normal Ovarian Function....................15
Abnormal Ovarian Function in PCOS....................18
High Levels of LH....................19
Increased Levels of Testosterone....................20
Insulin Problems....................21
PCOS and Being Overweight....................22
The Long-Term Health Risks of PCOS....................23
Chapter 3: Getting Help from Your Doctor....................25
Preparing to See Your Doctor....................25
At the Doctor's Office....................27
What Tests Am I Likely to Undergo?....................27
What Happens after the Diagnosis?....................30
Medications That Regulate Your Periods....................31
Medications That Treat Hirsutism and Acne....................32
Medications That Treat Obesity....................33
Medications That Treat Insulin Resistance....................34
Chapter 4: GettingPregnant....................37
Preparing to Get Pregnant....................37
At the Fertility Clinic....................40
IVF....................44
Chapter 5: Helping Yourself....................47
Improving Your Diet....................47
Eliminating Food Additives from Your Diet....................49
What Should Women with PCOS Eat?....................49
A Whole-Food Diet....................54
Phytoestrogens....................57
A Sample Meal Plan....................58
Making Changes....................61
Using a Diary to Set Goals....................62
Dietary Supplements for Women with PCOS....................62
Water....................64
Estrogens in the Environment....................64
Exercise....................65
Managing Stubborn Symptoms....................77
Chapter 6: Complementary Treatments....................83
What Is Complementary Medicine?....................83
Acupuncture....................84
Aromatherapy....................85
Bach Flower Remedies....................87
Herbal Remedies....................90
Homeopathy....................94
Reflexology....................95
Chapter 7: Emotional Support....................97
Your Appearance....................97
Boosting Confidence and Self-Esteem....................99
Helping Those Close to You Understand....................101
Overcoming a Negative Emotional State....................107
Understanding Chronic Stress....................109
Managing Stress....................112
Learning How to Relax....................113
In Closing....................117
Endnotes....................118
Resources....................120
Further Reading....................126
Index....................127