PCOS Success Story: How I Managed My Symptoms Naturally

I was first diagnosed with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) in my mid-20s. All the gynaecologist told me was that I shouldn't wait too long to fall pregnant. 

Let me preface this by saying, I am so grateful for that diagnosis because I was able to bring it up during later subsequent conversations. Early diagnosis and personalised management are crucial for effectively addressing PCOS. I was lucky PCOS was even on my radar. 

But at that moment I had no idea that my irregular periods and acne breakouts were related to PCOS. Even worse, I did't know about the serious health risks related to PCOS.And I wouldn't make the connection till years later.

Fortunately, since then, I've used a combination of natural methods, lifestyle changes, and consistent effor to manage symptoms and regain control over my homornal health. Here’s my journey.

My Personal Journey with PCOS: what worked and what didn't

When I was first diagnosed, I didn't immediately map my irregular menstrual cycles, excess hair growth (in all the wrong places), and acne back to PCOS. And even though I'd been skinny, borderling underweight at times, I always carried extra fat around my abdomen, another hallmark PCOS symptom. For the longest time, I believed this was simply my make up, like a genetic trait you learn accept because it's surely impossible to change.

Living with PCOS was initially overwhelming. Beyond irregular menstrual cycles and mood distrurbances, I also suffered through regular breakouts that seemed resistant to any type of skincare intervention. The emotional toll was significant.  I spent so much time and money trying to fix my skin. Yet, nothing stuck and was frequently left with painful acne outbreaks. 

One of my doctor's suggested I try birth control medication to improve my skin and regulate my periods. I'll admit this course of treatment was successful at fixing the irregular periods and acne-prone skin but came at a huge cost. The medication caused mood swings that left me feeling helpless and frustrated.

The turning point came when I visited an aesthetic doctor about my skin. She took a holistic approach and helped me realised that PCOS was the root cause of my skin problems and that bringing my hormones into balance was key.

Using her recommendations for diet and exercise, I committed to lifestyle changes and explored natural strategies for managing my symptoms. This decision empowered me to take charge of my reproductive health and overall wellbeing. Within weeks, my cycle was regular for the first time in my life. I stopped hving regular breakouts and would eventually go on to lose 13kg gained during COVID lockdown.

Natural Strategies That Helped Me Manage PCOS Symptoms

If you've read any research paper on managing PCOS naturally, you'll already know exercise, dietary changes, and natural supplements often form the cornerstone of a holistic treatment plan. But how do you put all of this into practice when there are so many strategies to choose from? Below, I'll get into my symptoms and what I did to cure them.

I'm compelled to add a disclaimer here. We're all different. Our symptoms may vary. 

 My story won't be identical to yours but hopefully you'll find some kind of value in my account.

I cut out processed carbs and most packaged foods 

One of the most impactful changes was revamping my diet. I focused on low carb foods to stabilise blood sugar levels and reduce insulin resistance. Whole foods became the foundation of my meals. If something was pre-packaged, I avoided it.

I read a few books on the connection between diet and PCOS and it was a lot to process. My main takeaway was that PCOS increases insulin levels, and that high insulin was the root cause of so many of my symptoms. To reverse this, I had to consume foods that wouldn't drive up insulin levels. But I knew I needed to simplify things to stay consistent. So I made these small changes:

• Cut out gassy drinks and juice in favour of sparkling water
• Swapped out potatoes for sweet potatoes, pumpkins, brocolli 
• Eliminated bread - this was hard at the start until I no longer missed bread at all

In sum, the key changes I made were removing processed carbs and added sugars. The very next month, I had my period and it stayed regular until I fell pregnant little over a year later.

Supplements for Hormonal Balance

I integrated supplements such as inositol, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids into my routine. Inositol, in particular, has been widely recognised for promoting weight loss and hormonal regulation. These supplements contributed to improved menstrual cycles and overall hormone health, making a noticeable difference in my journey.

I've experimented with supplements and cycle in and out of them over time. Currently, I've been experiencing heightened stress and decided to bring Ashawagandha back into my regime.

Regular Physical Activity and Exercise Routines

Exercise played a vital role in managing my symptoms.

I'd never really exercised prior so I knew I couldn't be too ambitious. I had to start small, with a routine I could reliably maintain. For me, that looked like weekly yoga classes, coupled with shorter daily sessions at home.

In addition, I set myself the goal of reaching 10,000 steps a day. To hit this target, I broke my walks up into 2,000 steps per session. Walking while listening to an audiobook meant I actually looked forward to these walks, instead of viewing them as a chore. 

Now my approach didn't result in overnight results. It me a full year to drop 13kg. But I kept that weight off until I fell pregnant.

Prioritising Quality Sleep

Establishing a regular sleep routine was essential. Adequate, restful sleep supports hormone regulation and overall wellbeing. I aimed for 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night.

Obviously, many times this is easier said that done. I've gone through periods of stress and leaned heavily on prescription strength sleeping aids. And, yes, they get the job done in that they knock you out. You're no longer tossing and turning and 2am, dragging yourself through the day half-awake and heavily dependent on caffiene. But. I've found these drugs are easily habit-forming. I absolutely advocate them for use during periods of extreme stress. Sleepless nights, and even the anticipation of a night devoid of any rest, are intenestly stressful. Once the storm passes, opt for natural methods. 

What works for me is avoiding screens at least two years before bed, relaxing teas like chamomile, supplements like Magnesium and melatonin, and a body scan right before bed. Building a routine incorporating these elements usually allows me to fix my sleep.

Monitoring Symptoms and Working with Healthcare Professionals

I maintained a symptom journal and stayed in regular contact with healthcare providers who supported my natural approach. This collaborative effort ensured I stayed on track and adjusted strategies as needed.

Get some blood tests to set a baseline. I worked with a integrative doctor who tested my insulin levels, vitamin D, and other markers. We tested once a year to keep track of my progress.

Achieving PCOS Success Naturally

Over time, I observed significant improvements. My menstrual cycles became more regular, and hormonal balance was restored. I experienced weight loss and felt more energetic and confident. These changes not only improved my physical health but also boosted my mental and emotional wellbeing.

 I even fell pregnant naturally with my third child at 38. 

For women seeking natural PCOS management, it often seems insurmountable.

Conventional practioners might be quick to dismiss your concerns leaving you to flee to internet forums trying to hack together some kind of diagnosis. Anything to help it all make sense. 

But I hope my PCOS success story shows natural management is not only possible but can lead to dramatic health transformation.

Hormonal balance is not out of reach. By embracing a comprehensive, personalised approach, you too can experience positive changes and move closer to your dreams of natural fertility and hormone health. 

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