Expert: Heather Vandeburg L.Ac M.S.O.M. dipl.Ac - 2/3/2008

Question
Hello
I was diagnosed with PCOS a year ago. My husband and I are trying to get pregnant. I have all the typical symptoms (sudden weight gain, difficulty losing weight, excess hair, high testosterone levels, irregular cycles with ovulation taking place 5-6 times a year, etc) but do not have the actually cysts on my ovaries according to my ultrasound.

I've been reading alot into TCM as I prefer to do the alternative medicine route rather than western medicine (aka Clomid).
From my findings of symptoms it seems as though I have Liver Qi Stagnation. As well I've been finding some similarities with my Spleen and Blood Stasis.

I recently bought a colon cleanse and liver detox from my local health food store. As well I've been thinking about taking a chaste tree berry supplement (and/or Dong Quai).
I'm curious as to what your thoughts are with my plan and if doing a colon and liver detox would be a good idea as well doing it along with Vitex or Dong Quai supplements - can be dangerous? (mixing herbs with other herbs).

Any other suggestions as to what you'd recommend for my situation?

I am asking you because there aren't any TCM/accupuncturist/naturopaths, etc.. in my area.

Thank you very much!

Answer
Hi Kristi,
Liver qi stagnation is common with PCOS as well as damp obstruction,  Chong and Ren mai imbalances, and blood stasis.  The Liver from the Chinese Medicine perspective is more of a metaphorical connection to liver not always a direct connection to the liver.  Without seeing you it is very difficult for me to suggestion what you should take. I think a colon and liver cleanse could be a good thing. I am not sure if they will interact with the herbs I dont know which cleanses your are going to use. Homeopathics may be a safer route. I would not be trying to get pregnant at the same time as detoxing.  Give yourself at least a month after doing a detox before trying to get pregnant again.  Chinese herbals are usually prescribed in formulas of many herbs.  Dang gui and wu wei zi (vitex) are used for regulating menstruation.  I would really try and find someone to guide you with your herbs.  Try NCCAOM.org.  Both the herbs you mentioned are relatively safe.  Don't take the dong gui during your period it may increase the heaviness of flow.  Get a good book on acupressure.  You can learn how to massage yourself to help with your condition.  Here are some points you can look up and try.  Spleen 6, Liver 3, spleen 10, zi gong, Spleen 4, Pericardium 6.

Good luck,
Heather Vandeburg LAc MSOM