One of the incredible things about massage therapy is that our team members have the opportunity to support our client through their wellness journeys. Those journeys look different for each client and we are honored to be a part of it.
This September we want to recognize our clients with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome – commonly known as PCOS. September is national PCOS Awareness Month, and we are excited to be a part of it in our own way. The goal of PCOS Awareness Month is to help improve the lives of those affected by the disorder and to help them to overcome their symptoms in addition to preventing and reducing their risks for related diseases.
PCOS is a common hormonal and reproductive disorder that affects around one in every 10 women of reproductive age. While the signs and symptoms of PCOS can vary woman to woman, most individuals with PCOS may experience the following:
- Irregular or prolonged periods of menstrual bleeding.
- An excess of androgens, or male sex hormones.
- Enlarged, polycystic ovaries with follicles surrounding eggs. These follicles, or fluid, may cause the ovaries to function irregularly, resulting in a failure to regularly release eggs.
While more than half of PCOS cases are asymptomatic, those that are symptomatic can experience a wide array of challenges. PCOS can lead to various complications including:
- Digestive issues
- Pelvic inflammation
- Restricted blood flow
- Depression and anxiety
- Infertility.
If you think you may be experiencing symptoms of PCOS, connect with your healthcare provider.
While there is currently no cure for PCOS, and the cause is generally unknown, there are lifestyle changes that can be made that may help to relieve symptoms, including incorporating targeted massage therapy into your schedule more regularly. We know that massage therapy has a multitude of health benefits–both physical and mental.
Massage therapy is a non-invasive and gentle treatment option for those with PCOS. Here are a few benefits of incorporating massage therapy into your PCOS journey:
Increased Circulation.
Massage therapy promotes lymphatic flow, and increases blood circulation to your reproductive system as well as the surrounding tissues and organs. Increased blood flow can help to lessen complications from PCOS including pelvic inflammation.
Additionally, you need oxygen rich blood in your muscles to heal. If you have damaged or tense muscles, massage therapy can increase blood flow to those muscles and promote the healing process.
Stimulate Your Endocrine System.
The endocrine system is made up of glands that produce hormones that control bodily functions, including our reproductive systems. Women with PCOS may suffer from disrupted endocrine systems.
Through gently applied pressure, massage therapy can help to reduce levels of adrenaline and norepinephrine. These are hormones produced by the adrenal glands in your endocrine system which activate your fight or flight response. When these hormones are present in your body, muscles are tense and your heart rate increases, which can lead to anxiety, another complication of PCOS.
Lower Stress Levels.
We know that massage therapy has been proven to combat stress and lessen the impact it has on our minds and our bodies. Reducing stress levels can make a significant impact in reducing the risks associated with PCOS.
Whether it’s as simple as taking some quiet time for yourself, or experiencing the applied pressure targeting key points of stress within your body, booking a spa experience can help to lower your overall stress levels, helping you to feel more at peace and in a posture of restoration.
Experience Relief.
No matter where you are in your wellness journey, our massage therapists are here to support you at any stage. Our team is ready to get you feeling rejuvenated and invigorated as you navigate your PCOS journey.
Connect with your healthcare provider to discuss what your treatment plan options are to manage your symptoms of PCOS and to see if incorporating massage therapy could be a good option for you.
Sources:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pcos/symptoms-causes/syc-20353439
https://pcoschallenge.org/pcos-awareness-month/
