PCOS can have difficulties for women in their 20s and 30s. But could there be a way to help? We spoke to an expert to learn more.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder among women of reproductive age.
Women with PCOS have irregular menstrual periods due to excess male hormone (androgen). Because of this condition ovaries may develop numerous small collections of fluid and fail to regularly release eggs.
A lot of women with irregular menstrual periods, experience switch moods, and not all people are aware of the problems women may have.
For this reason, Youth Time Magazine interviewed Dr John Barry, a psychologist, researcher, consultant, author and hypnotherapist.
Dr Barry has written the first academic book on psychological aspects of PCOS and the first psychological therapeutic intervention to reduce adrenal androgens in women with PCOS.
“Every Woman Is Different”
PCOS has a considerable effect on appearance therefore, that can impact their self-esteem.
“Every woman is different, so it is important to find out from each person what aspect of PCOS impacts her emotionally.
“Many women find facial/body hair, weight gain and fertility problems as the main factors that impact them emotionally.”
Years ago, it was thought that only pills can regulate hormonal problems in women with PCOS but now things are changing.
According to Dr Barry there is increasing evidence that psychological interventions can help reduce problem with hormones in PCOS.
“There is increasing evidence that relaxation-based techniques can improve the hormone profile in PCOS. A breakthrough study recently found that regular practice of yoga could reduce testosterone levels.
The Benefits of Yoga for PCOS
Dr. Barry suggests women can practice yoga regularly, mindfulness, self-hypnosis, or some other relaxation-based exercise.
“My study of relaxation for PCOS found that it improves anxiety and depression, and also – by inducing relaxation – reduced stress hormones produced by the adrenal glands, and also androgens (testosterone-like substances) produced by the adrenal glands.”
According to a study called Regular Mindful Yoga Practice as a Method to Improve Androgen Levels in Women With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Randomized, Controlled Trial – regular mindful yoga practice can be a useful complementary therapeutic option for women with PCOS. Yoga helps especially in improving serum androgen levels.
Thirty-one women were part of this study and they got separated into two groups: one group had mindful yoga intervention three times per week and the other group had no intervention.
Women who completed the three months of mindful yoga intervention had significantly lower free testosterone levels compared to women who didn’t.
Studies are showing that this is one of the most natural ways to regulate your hormones. If you are tired of taking pills to regulate your menstrual cycle, try to do yoga.
Want to read more from our author Donika Gashi? How about this?
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