Is there any alternative to BCP?

mauimouse · 09-20-2008, 10:03 AM

I was diagnosed with PCOS about 5 years ago. For the most part, I don't suffer too much from the effects of PCOS, other than absence of a period which alternates with very heavy periods and development of cysts. I have already had two abdominal surgeries to remove a 10cm cyst in 1999 and a 7cm one in 2006. Since my last surgery two years ago, I gained almost 40 lbs and have been experiencing more PCOS symptoms. Unfortunately, the only treatment my doctor has recommended (don't get me wrong, she's an AWESOME doctor) has been birth control. In the past year I have been on nearly 5 different brands of BCP and none of them suited me. They either didn't stop my bleeding, they made me moody (Yasmin was AWFUL!), or I would spot during the whole month. Now I am on Zovia, which has stopped the bleeding, with the occasional spotting. However, I have been on it for two weeks now, and I am horribly depressed. I also have developed insomnia and I am up to 4 in the morning, sometimes having to cry myself to sleep. I decided to see a naturopath for alternatives. I am sick and tired of taking birth control pills. Has anyone tried natural healing to deal with their PCOS? I am eager to find a new solution and get off BCP once and for all!

MarianneUnfaithfull · 09-22-2008, 04:02 PM

I recommend reading up on agnus castus (vitex) which is the most effective alternative remedy I've tried so far. I was on it a few years. It wasn't as effective as bcp for clearing my acne, which is my main symptom, but it helped a great deal - more than I ever imagined.
Personally I also recommend Zinc ACE by Wassen if it's available where you live. Or a multi vit and really good quality zinc supplement. Zinc ACE helped my skin quite a bit (although it did take months). I've tried Zinc in the past with no success so I think the secret is to use a top quality one.
If you've got problematic symptoms such as acne and facial hair you could think about trying Spironolactone, although this is usually prescribed together with a bcp for various reasons.
I've also read quite a bit about a herb called Saw Palmetto but I've not tried it myself. Also a lot of people on here take liquorice root.
There's loads of great info in the alternative remedies forum on here. Sometimes the right combination of meds and/or herbs and supplements can make a fantastic difference.
Good luck and i hope this has been some help x