How hypnotherapy can help polycystic ovaries syndrome (PCOS)

Millions of women are affected by polycystic ovaries syndrome (PCOS) with more being diagnosed every day.

In fact, it is the most common hormone condition, affecting one in every 10 women across the UK.

What is PCOS?

PCOS was first diagnosed in 1935 and is described as harmless cysts which sit on the ovaries. If a woman is diagnosed with PCOS, she is at a higher risk of developing type II diabetes, high cholesterol, heart disease, fertility problems, a higher risk of miscarriage, preeclampsia, depression and eating disorders.

If you are diagnosed with this condition, you need to make sure you minimise the risks and do something about it- regardless of how old you are. One of the ways to successfully manage PCOS is to maintain a healthy lifestyle, such as eating healthily, regularly exercising, reducing stress, maintaining a healthy BMI, and limiting alcohol intake.      

There are treatments out there to balance hormone levels, such as a procedure where a laser burns away the tissue around the ovaries which produces the cysts. These all carry their own risks and have their own side effects.

What are the symptoms of PCOS?

According to the latest statistics, 7-10% of women are currently living with this syndrome. Sufferers can experience symptoms such as:

• irregular/lack of periods

• irregular ovulation

• reduced fertility

• unwanted facial and body hair

• weight problems

• acne

• thinning of the hair

• long-term risk of developing type 2 diabetes

• depression and mood changes

How can PCOS affect mental health?

If you have been diagnosed with PCOS, your GP may tell you to reduce your weight (if you are overweight) and give you an option of medication to help regulate the cycle. This is all very well but what about dealing with the emotional issues that come from having such a syndrome? 

Women who have PCOS may face greater mental health challenges as a result of the condition. A study carried out by the Neuroscience and Mental Health Institute at Cardiff University shows that women with PCOS are more likely to experience mental health issues including depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.

Those with PCOS might find that weight loss is slower; this can have an impact on self-esteem. It may also bring about emotional challenges to those trying to conceive. Or even having to tell friends and family who probably have never heard of this condition before can be difficult. Dealing with unwanted facial hair and acne on a monthly basis can also affect confidence levels.

However, the power is within your hands to take control; to get on top of your symptoms. This is your life and your body.

How can hypnotherapy help PCOS?

Hypnotherapy is a fantastic way to take back control. Addressing psychological issues by working with the subconscious mind to address weight loss problems and food cravings is a great first step. Hypnotherapy can also help increase fertility through relaxation techniques - really getting the client to listen to their bodies and understand themselves.

Hypnotherapy is a fantastic way to improve self-esteem, increase confidence, and work through the root causes of PCOS; not just the symptoms.