Complementary and alternative medicine therapies used by women with polycystic ovary syndrome

Background: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a gynecological and endocrinological disorder prevalent in reproductive aged women. This study explored the use of Traditional, Complementary and Integrative Medicine (TCIM) by 268 women with PCOS characterized by anovulation, hyperandrogenism and the presence of polycystic ovarian (PCO) morphology diagnosed by a medical physician. Methods: Use of TCIM was assessed using the Complementary and Alternative Medicine Scale (CAMS) and a Descriptive Information form were used to collect the data. Results: This study included 268 eligible women. The mean duration of PCOS in women was 7.01 +/- 5.17 (min: 1 year, max: 20 year). Most women reported receiving medical treatment (86.9 %) for PCOS and had cysts in both ovaries (76.1 %). Less than one-third reported having irregular menstrual cycles (16.4 %) and a family history of PCOS (28.7 %). Approximately 60 % of women reported using TCIM. The most preferred TCIM modalities were herbal approaches such as Nigella sativa (44 %), flaxseed (42.9 %), green tea (28.9 %), yarrow (23.4 %); dietary approaches like yogurt (46.5 %), milk and dairy products (45.1 %); mind-body practices including exercise (35.5 %) and meditation (8.1 %); and religious approaches such as prayer (81.3 %) and salaat (prayer) (50.2 %). Conclusion: Most women diagnosed with PCOS used different types of TCIM modalities and more comprehensive further studies are required. To protect against possible side effects, healthcare professionals and women should be guided correctly regarding the use of TCIM in women with PCOS.