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    Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

    Also known as: PCOS, polycystic ovary syndrome, polycystic ovaries, irregular periods

    PCOS causes irregular periods, acne, excess hair growth and difficulty with weight, and can affect fertility. GP care covers diagnosis, metabolic screening and options like the pill or metformin. Chinese medicine treats it through Phlegm-Damp accumulation, Kidney deficiency, or Liver Qi stagnation with Blood stasis patterns.

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    Lifestyle & Diet

    • •Losing 5–10% of body weight (if overweight) can restart ovulation and improve symptoms.
    • •Regular exercise improves insulin resistance, a driver of PCOS.
    • •Ask the GP about screening for diabetes and cholesterol — PCOS raises both risks.
    • •If periods are more than 3 months apart, see the GP to protect the uterine lining.

    Cautions & Contraindications

    See sources
    • •Blood-moving formulas and points (SP6, LV3 strong stimulation) are contraindicated in pregnancy — always check first in this group.[]
    • •Do not delay GP care for metabolic screening or fertility planning.[,]

    When to reassess or seek care again

    See sources

    Review every 4–6 weeks. Track cycle length, weight, skin and hair changes. Confirm GP metabolic screening (glucose, lipids) done; refer to fertility services when pregnancy is desired.

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    Sources & Further Reading

    Clinical guidance, red flags and safety notes on this page draw on the following current sources alongside the classical references above.

    1. Polycystic ovary syndrome — Healthdirect
      Healthdirect Australia · 2024
    2. International evidence-based guideline for PCOS
      Monash University / International PCOS Network · 2023
    3. PCOS — Jean Hailes for Women's Health
      Jean Hailes · 2024
    4. Chinese medicine practitioner safety standards
      AHPRA / Chinese Medicine Board of Australia · 2024

    Educational reference for licensed practitioners. Not a substitute for individual clinical assessment. Refer to conventional care for any red-flag or undiagnosed presentation.