Chinese medicine has studied polycystic ovaries since ancient times. There are many ancient and modern text books which mentions polycystic ovaries. They both describe them as being related to irregular or having no menstruation. Causes of polycystic ovaries according to Chinese medicine include:

1. Kidney deficiency
Chinese medicine considers kidney essence to maintain sexual development throughout life. If someone has weak kidneys it will affect the functioning of the ovaries and the body will experience having delayed period or no periods, or polycystic ovaries without menstruation. The body may also have the following symptoms; lower back pain, weakness in the lower back and knee region, puffy ankles, frequent urination especially at night-time, lower libido, early waking, hirsutism.

2. Qi and blood deficiency
Chinese medicine believes that if the body has weakened qi and blood, then the abdomen will have a lack of qi and blood which will affect the ovaries. The body will not only suffer from delayed periods or polycystic ovaries, but will have the following symptoms; Lethargy, pale face, bloating especially after eating, diarrhea, body bloating, weight gain.

3. Liver qi and blood stagnation
This is present in women who have a very stressful life. Stress and tension will make the qi and blood in the liver stagnant. It will cause poor circulation to the ovaries and effect the production of eggs. The body will not only experience irregular periods or polycystic ovaries but may have the following; stress, very emotional, PMS, breast full and pain before period, insomnia, vivid dreams, irritable bowel movement, acne.

How to prevent polycystic ovaries
1) Young women should have regular moderate exercise in the sun. Around the time of menstruation exercise should be reduced.

2) Relaxing your lifestyle is important around you period. Listen to soft music, avoid strong emotions especially around menstruation.

iii) You should avoid cold environments, foods or beverages. During a cold day around menstruation you can use a hot water bottle and place it on your abdomen.

3) It is important to remember when you will menstruate and the condition of the blood such as quality, amount, colour. If you suffer from delayed periods or period pain, you should treat it in early stages to avoid polycystic ovaries.