Treating the Problems

Since the diagnoses of PCOS and dealing with irregular menstral cycles as well as PMDD, I have done quite a bit of research concerning ways to treat these problems without the use of synthetic hormones like birth control. With the help of two different nurse practioners I have learned so much and I'm finally excited to be taking control of my health in as natural of a way as possible.

I have decided to share the treatment plan that I have taken in hopes that maybe it will help someone else in their search for homeopathic treatment of both PCOS and PMDD. Please know that I'm not a health care professional, I just know what I have done and that I feel so much better when I am actively taking these steps. Also, natural medicine works better for me, I know that it's not for everyone.

Diet

I try and eat lots of whole grains, fruits and vegetables as well as healthy proteins. Also, I have chosen to stop eating meat because of the hormones found in beef, poultry and pork. I made this decision at the same time that I got my lab results and was also reading The Omnivore's Dilemma. I haven't eaten meat since the beginning of March, and frankly, I don't miss it (well except bacon, sometimes I miss bacon). I eat fish about 2-3 times a week. I also avoid soy products because research has shown that soy products increase the levels of estrogen. This includes synthetic meats since most of them have soy products. I try to drink lots of water everyday as well.

Jon and I both make a strong effort to try to eat as organically as possible. It's not always easy (or cheap) but by attempting to shop local and in season, we have been able to eat approximently 70% organically.

Changing my eating habits has been the most drastic change in my health treatment plan. I think it is also the most challenged by the general public (friends and family) as well. Fortunately, I live in a town that is really progressive in the food revolution.

Excersize

To be honest, I'm not very good at this one. I have been making an effort to take walks at work during my breaks and at lunch. I also try and go bike riding or on walks with Jon in the evenings too. I know that this is important, but it's just so hard sometimes! My goal on my health plan is to excersize for 30 minutes a day.

Mindfulness

Yoga as much as possible. Again, this is another one that I'm not the greatest at. I try and do yoga every night, but haven't been maintaining that lately. What is silly is that I absolutely love yoga so it shouldn't be a chore to do it.

Deep breathing daily before and after bed and anytime I catch myself holding my breath.

I also do a 30 second sensory check in where I take a brief break and check in with all my senses.

Supplements

This one is long! I bought a multi pack from Costco and add in a couple of vitamins to that multipack. These are the vitamins that I make a point to take every night.

Vitamin D3 5000 IU's- There has been an abundance of research in the last couple of months about the benefits of vitamin D. Since I live in the pacific northwest the sun isn't always shinning and my last bloodwork indicated a vitamin D deficiancy. Vitamin D is an accumulative vitamin so it's important to have your levels checked often.

Calcium 1000 mg

Magnesium 500 mg

Complex B Vitamin- Vitamins B6 and B12 have been shown to increase energy levels and help in weight loss.

Daily Multi Vitamin

Omega 3 Complex (fish oil)- Has been shown to help elevate mood levels and maintain a healthy heart.

Vitamin E

Primrose Oil- I take Primrose oil three times a day, starting two days before my menstral cycle and I use it up to two days after starting my menstral cycle. Of all the supplements that I take, this is the one that I physically think helps the most. It has really helped both my phsyical and mental health during my period.

Hormone Balance

Used to specifically balence my hormones, I use a prescription ointment called Procheive that is a bio-identical form of progestrone. I also drink 2-4 cups of spearmint tea, which has been shown to significantly reduce testostrone levels (Google it, the studies are actually really interesting!!).

I try and avoid caffeine, alcohol, nicotine, drugs and convenience foods.

I hope this helps someone in the future and I also hope that it has explained some of my unconventional decisions that I have made regarding my health. If you have questions please feel free to e-mail me or post a comment here!