Kendra Richards, Author at Herbal Harmony

My PCOS Journey Beyond the Pill

Kendra Richards — Wed, 12 Feb 2025 04:39:20 +0000

Getting a period from a birth control pill is not a natural period! It is simply synthetic hormones signaling your body to bleed. Struggling with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) for over ten years, I know all too well about the use of contraceptive pills and all the nasty side effects they harbor on a woman’s body.

Early PCOS Diagnosis

For instance, after discovering I was diagnosed with PCOS at age 17, my gynecologist prescribed me a top-rated pill (at that time). I often saw advertisements on television for that particular brand of birth control pill. However, as a teenager, I was not privy to the side effects of the pill because I was told it was the best option for treating my PCOS, a disease I never knew existed.

Realizations: The Effects of “The Pill” on My Body

I was on the pill from age 17 to about age 21 before I decided to take a break. While on the pill for those first four years, I started noticing I was gaining weight rapidly, I was still somewhat struggling with anxiety issues, and I was still struggling with excessive hair growth all over my body. Then, here come the commercials with lawsuits about the long-term side effects of the very first pill I was prescribed. I remember telling myself I probably needed to change the pill I was using because although I was seeing my period monthly, I was still struggling with other symptoms to no avail.

I clearly remember trying two more different brands of contraceptive pills and even the popular 3-month birth control injection. However, I eventually was so tired of swallowing such a tiny pill that I always, for some strange reason, felt as if it was stuck at the back of my throat, and the coating made me feel so bad. Then, with the injection, I remember having my period and bleeding for about ten days as opposed to my usual five days for my period cycle. I thought to myself one day, is this what being an adult on contraceptives is about? I was so done that I decided I needed to take a break from the pill and injection, knowing that my hormones would eventually become unbalanced.

My Self-Created Hormone Therapy Regimen

In 2012, when I moved to the US and enrolled in my University for my Bachelor’s, I decided to visit my school’s gynecologist for a second opinion on my diagnosis. Lo and behold, yes, I was diagnosed with PCOS and again prescribed and advised to take the infamous pill. It was the beginning of my breaking point. I thanked the doctor, and I went home and started some heavy research on PCOS and what it is about. That’s when I started taking herbal supplements to regulate my hormones. I called it my “self-created” hormone therapy regimen. I remember starting my herbal supplement regimen in mid-2017 and continuing until about 2020. This journey became one of research, persistence, and a deep desire to understand and naturally manage my PCOS. Here are the keywords/phrases used for my research:

Herbal Supplements
Empowerment/Freedom
PCOS Diagnosis
Pill

Ovaries
Cysts
Excessive Hair Growth
Carb Cravings

Irregular Menstruation
Herbal Supplements
Stress
Hormone Imbalance

As we already know, 2020 was the start of the COVID-19 pandemic and the year I started my master’s degree. With all the stresses from my degree and the pandemic, I thought that was why I had not seen my menstruation for approximately five months. Due to the pandemic and the closure of many non-essential businesses, I could not access the necessary herbal supplements. Therefore, I knew I had to go and see a doctor again. To my surprise, my ovaries were indeed clean from cysts, but I was prescribed a pill, AGAIN for the fifteen billionth time (LOL), to regulate my monthly. Because I had not seen my period for several months, I decided to take the pill until I could access my herbal supplements.

The Final Break from Birth Control Pills

Listen! I was three weeks on the pill, and I was done and over with it. Also, I felt terrible every day; I was still gaining weight, and I was just done. I remember texting my doctor and telling him I was done with the pills for my PCOS! In all honesty, I clearly remember as soon as I came off the pill, a couple of days later, my period came down and with a vengeance! Lol! In late 2021 or early 2022, I started incorporating herbal teas into my diet. I also started curbing my diet and exercising (walking more). I am so grateful that my body has been regulated ever since then!

Empowering My Cysters: Why Birth Control Isn’t the Only Answer

My Cysters, I understand that, as women, we sometimes want to prevent pregnancy using contraceptive pills. I firmly believe that should be the only purpose. We do not need to mask our PCOS symptoms with synthetic hormones. We can regulate our bodies with just a few lifestyle changes. I honestly feel like my body was telling me to stop with the pills and do something different. Though I still struggle with a few symptoms of PCOS, which is fine because PCOS has no cure, my symptoms are, in fact, manageable for me. Trust me, I do not want to have to remember to take a pill every day or night, nor worry about the nasty taste in my mouth ever again.

Taking the contraceptive pill to mask PCOS symptoms is a temporary solution that doesn’t address the root causes of the condition. While the pill may regulate periods and control acne, it only suppresses symptoms without offering long-term relief or healing. Over time, this masking effect can lead to a disconnect between you and your body’s natural signals, making it harder to identify what’s happening with your hormones. Moreover, the pill can sometimes cause side effects such as weight gain, mood changes, and even increased risks of other health complications. Relying on it alone can prevent you from exploring healthier, sustainable ways to manage your PCOS symptoms.

By choosing to manage my PCOS naturally, I’m consciously creating a life that aligns with my health and well-being beyond the pill!

Kendra Richards

Herbal Harmony’s Approach: A Natural, Holistic Path to Managing PCOS

In the Herbal Harmony community, the focus shifts to holistic, natural approaches that empower you to take charge of your health. Through education on diet, exercise, stress management, and herbal teas, you can work with your body rather than against it. The community provides guidance on addressing the root causes of PCOS. In addition, it offers support for healthier lifestyle changes that promote hormonal balance, improved metabolism, and emotional well-being.

By embracing Herbal Harmony’s approach, you can make informed, conscious choices that lead to long-term better health. Who wants to rely solely on the pill to mask symptoms?

The post My PCOS Journey Beyond the Pill appeared first on Herbal Harmony.

The Power of Self-Love in Women with PCOS: A Path to Healing

Kendra Richards — Sat, 08 Feb 2025 02:21:39 +0000

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a complex condition affecting millions of women worldwide. It’s not just a medical diagnosis but a journey that includes physical, emotional, and mental challenges. The concept of self-love is essential for women struggling with PCOS. Let’s explore the significance of self-love, the barriers women with PCOS face in embracing it, and how positive affirmations, mental health management, and communities like HerbalHarmony contribute to women’s ability to prioritize self-love.

What is Self-Love?

Self-love is often misunderstood as simply indulging oneself or selfishness, but it’s much more profound. Self-love refers to caring for, valuing, and nurturing yourself. It involves recognizing your inherent worth, treating yourself with kindness, respecting your emotional and physical needs, and protecting your well-being. In essence, it’s about prioritizing yourself in a healthy, balanced way.

For women with PCOS, self-love is crucial because the condition impacts every facet of life. From the physical symptoms like weight gain, acne, and hair loss to the emotional burden of mood swings, anxiety, and feelings of inadequacy, practicing self-love means acknowledging these challenges and offering yourself patience, compassion, and support along the way.

Why is Self-Love Challenging for Women with PCOS?

For women with PCOS, practicing self-love can feel incredibly difficult. PCOS affects body image, fertility, emotional regulation, and mental health, all of which can erode self-esteem. Some of the specific challenges that hinder self-love for women with PCOS include:

Body Image Issues: Many women with PCOS struggle with weight gain and other visible symptoms, such as excess hair growth or acne, which can lead to feelings of unattractiveness. Society often glorifies thinness and clear skin, making it harder for women with PCOS to feel confident and comfortable in their bodies.
Fertility Struggles: For women who hope to become mothers, PCOS can be particularly distressing. The hormonal imbalances associated with PCOS can lead to infertility or difficulty conceiving, leading to feelings of shame, frustration, and self-blame.
Mental Health Struggles: PCOS increases the likelihood of anxiety and depression due to hormonal fluctuations, feelings of isolation, and the emotional toll of chronic illness. This makes it harder for women to feel optimistic about themselves and their future.
Social Pressure and Stigma: Many women feel that they are being judged for their appearance or their perceived inability to manage their symptoms. This social pressure can damage self-worth and self-esteem, making it even harder to practice self-love.

These challenges make it essential to approach self-love as an ongoing, intentional practice—one that evolves as women navigate their PCOS journeys.

The Healing Power of Positive Self-Love Affirmations for Women with PCOS

One of the most effective tools for cultivating self-love is positive affirmations. Affirmations are short, powerful statements you repeat to yourself, aloud or mentally, to reprogram negative thoughts and promote a healthier, more loving mindset. For women with PCOS, affirmations can be a form of self-compassion, a way to rewrite harmful inner narratives and replace them with ones of empowerment and acceptance.

Here are a few examples of affirmations specifically designed for women with PCOS:

“I am worthy of love and acceptance, just as I am.”
“My weight, skin, or fertility do not define my value.”
“I honor my body for all it does to support me.”
“I am resilient, capable, and deserving of happiness.”
“PCOS is a part of me, but it does not define me.”

The power of affirmations lies in their ability to reshape how you see yourself and your condition. Over time, these positive statements help to build emotional resilience, fostering a sense of peace, strength, and unconditional self-love.

How Self-Love is Key to Managing the Psychological Symptoms of PCOS

The psychological impact of PCOS often goes hand in hand with the physical symptoms. Anxiety, depression, mood swings, and low self-esteem are common among women with the condition. However, learning to prioritize self-love can have a profound effect on managing these psychological symptoms. Here’s how:

Reduces Anxiety and Depression: When you practice self-love, you become more attuned to your needs. This awareness helps you recognize when your mental health requires attention, whether seeking therapy, practicing mindfulness, or simply taking a break. Prioritizing self-love creates space for self-care practices that improve mental health and reduce overwhelming feelings.
Promotes Emotional Resilience: The ups and downs of living with PCOS can make it difficult to stay emotionally grounded. However, when self-love is part of your routine, it acts as a buffer against negative emotions. You begin to treat yourself with kindness during tough times, which builds emotional resilience and helps you bounce back from setbacks.
Fosters a Positive Relationship with Your Body: PCOS can make you feel at war with your body. Self-love encourages a shift in perspective—from frustration and disappointment to compassion and understanding. When you love yourself, you’re more likely to engage in healthy, supportive habits rather than punishing yourself for perceived flaws.

The Role of the Herbal Harmony Community in Supporting Self-Love

Self-love doesn’t exist in isolation—it’s nurtured through connection, support, and understanding from others. That’s where communities like Herbal Harmony come in. Founded by yours truly, Herbal Harmony aims to empower women with PCOS to manage their symptoms naturally and build a foundation of self-love.

Being a part of a community like Herbal Harmony offers several benefits:

1. A Safe Space for Shared Experiences: Many women with PCOS feel isolated as if no one understands the unique challenges they face. Herbal Harmony creates a space where women can share their experiences, offer support, and connect with others who are going through similar struggles.
2. Emotional Support and Validation: Often, women with PCOS are told that their symptoms are ‘just in their head’ or that they need to ‘just lose weight.’ In Herbal Harmony, these feelings are validated, and members are encouraged to embrace their unique journey, free from judgment.
3. A Positive Environment for Growth: Whether through shared virtual meetings, WhatsApp groups, or my one-on-one guidance, Herbal Harmony fosters an environment of growth. Women learn to celebrate small victories, support each other through setbacks, and commit to lifelong self-love.

Conclusion

Self-love is not just a nice-to-have for women with PCOS—it’s essential. The foundation allows women to manage their symptoms, cope with the emotional toll, and find peace in their journey. While the challenges of PCOS can often make self-love seem out of reach, through tools like positive affirmations, emotional resilience, and supportive communities like HerbalHarmony, women with PCOS can learn to prioritize and cultivate self-love in meaningful ways.

By investing in self-love, women with PCOS are not only improving their mental health but also laying the groundwork for a life of strength, acceptance, and joy. Whether through affirmations, joining a community, or simply taking time to care for themselves, self-love is the key to thriving with PCOS.

The post The Power of Self-Love in Women with PCOS: A Path to Healing appeared first on Herbal Harmony.

A Supportive Community: The PCOS Cysterhood

Kendra Richards — Sat, 01 Feb 2025 03:30:15 +0000

Cyster, in short, is a play on the words “sister” and “cyst.” But the PCOS cysterhood is a movement to empower women suffering from Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and create a community for support! Women with PCOS need to have a support group as this disease does not only cause physical symptoms but also physiological symptoms.

When I was diagnosed with PCOS in mid-2008, it was still confusing at the time as to what disease I would have to live with for the rest of my life. At the time, I didn’t know of anyone in my family who had PCOS—only one Aunt who struggled with scarce menses like me. I felt like I was different from everyone. I had no support group where I could have asked all the questions I wanted.

To this day, it is still unknown as to what causes PCOS, but just that it may be from genetics or environmental factors. Ladies, my ultimate goal is to create a supportive community with no filters or shame to ask questions about our bodies. For instance, many women who may not have PCOS may, however, have cysts in their breasts! I certainly also struggle with breast cysts!

Therefore, creating a cysterhood where we can all be able to not only ask all the questions we don’t feel comfortable asking our doctors but also learn from each other will allow us women to better understand the disease and what we can do to help the symptoms.

The Power of Connection: The Emotional Impact of The PCOS Cysterhood

As I got older and began to talk about my journey with close friends and family, I realized that there are indeed millions of women all over the world suffering from PCOS and have similar symptoms as I did. My Aunt also struggles with weight fluctuations, cravings, and excessive unwanted hair growth. She mentioned that growing up, and even in her adult years, she never heard of or knew anything about PCOS until I brought it to her attention. She has never been to a doctor to get a proper diagnosis. Still, just by the irregular periods and the excessive unwanted hair growth, we knew she might also be suffering from PCOS, and more than likely, my diagnosis is related to her (genetics).

For me, it was utterly liberating to know that I had someone in my family that I could completely relate to when it came to the day-to-day struggles of living with PCOS. Some people may think or believe that the word “cyster” adds more pain to an already tricky disease, but I beg to differ. “Cyster” actually, from experience, makes me finally believe that I am not alone with my PCOS. There are other women, and unfortunately, some men, that have this disease that we have to live with for the rest of our lives.

Here are twelve values that the PCOS Cysterhood represents:

Support
Empowerment
Awareness
Wellness

Resilience
Positive affirmations
Self-love
Natural healing

Advocacy
Community
Education
Understanding

In a cysterhood support group, we can laugh, cry, and make jokes about our diagnosis with each other, as well as share what remedy worked for any of the symptoms we may have.

The Role of The PCOS Cysterhood: Supporting Women with PCOS and Beyond

It is also imperative that women with PCOS have support groups where we can discuss topics such as our sexual health or reproductive health and the mental health struggles that we may have from time to time.

In the earlier years of my PCOS diagnosis, I suffered from anxiety. It just happened out of the blue. I had no idea what I was feeling until many years later when I started learning about the symptoms of PCOS.

Age 10 was the first experience I can recall when my siblings and I were on summer break, and my mom was scheduled to travel for 2 weeks. That was the first time she went on vacation without my siblings and me, and I felt like I couldn’t eat or sleep. It was almost like I was restless and felt an empty pit in my stomach.

It was the worst feeling of my entire childhood. All I knew was that I genuinely missed my mom and wanted her to return home. My mom had to take me to the doctor, and that was when she said the doctor said, because I knew she was going to travel soon, it was probably a case of anxiety.

That was the first time I experienced that type of feeling, and the only second time I had a similar feeling was after the most heart-wrenching breakup I experienced in 2023. Honestly, thinking about it now, since I know that anxiety is also a psychological symptom of PCOS, I am not a doctor to officially diagnose the connection, but I partly believe my anxiety stems from my PCOS

The Symbolism of "Cyster": Empowerment and Unity

The term “cyster” holds deep significance for women with PCOS, symbolizing a sisterhood forged through shared experiences and challenges. It’s not just a catchy term but a powerful identifier that unites women who navigate the complexities of PCOS, from hormone imbalances to emotional and physical struggles.

Being a cyster means being part of a global support system where understanding, empathy, and empowerment are central. In the HerbalHarmony community, this connection is magnified. Founded to naturally guide women in managing PCOS, HerbalHarmony fosters a space where cysters unite to share knowledge, self-love, and holistic wellness practices.

The community represents more than just support—it’s a movement toward self-empowerment, reminding every woman that she’s not alone on this journey. Through guided herbal remedies, mindful practices, and a network of compassionate individuals, HerbalHarmony is a beacon for cysters seeking not just solutions but healing and acceptance.

To be part of HerbalHarmony is to embrace your role as a cyster with pride and to walk this path with others who understand the weight of your struggles and the beauty of your strength. Together, the sisterhood grows stronger, creating lasting bonds rooted in mutual resilience!

Cysterhood is a bond of strength and shared struggles, turning pain into power and reminding us we’re never alone.
Kendra Richards

12 Feb

"The Pill"
By Kendra Richards

My PCOS Journey Beyond the Pill

08 Feb

Healing
By Kendra Richards

The Power of Self-Love in Women with PCOS:...

01 Feb

Cysterhood
By Kendra Richards

A Supportive Community: The PCOS Cysterhood

The post A Supportive Community: The PCOS Cysterhood appeared first on Herbal Harmony.

Why Restrictive Diets Don’t Work for PCOS

Kendra Richards — Fri, 31 Jan 2025 04:00:23 +0000

Restrictive diets don’t work for women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). When I was first diagnosed with PCOS at 17, I felt like I had lost control over my body. I was never mindful of the correlation between my meals and PCOS until a few years ago (at age 31). I remember I spent days researching every diet and tip to manage my symptoms. It seemed like everywhere I turned, someone was promoting a restrictive diet that promised to be the cure-all for PCOS, from the Mediterranean diet to keto and even the most extreme calorie-cutting meal plans.

It was too much for me, so I tried my meal plan technique. But instead of feeling better, I was left hungry, frustrated, and still struggling with my symptoms. It took me about two years later to understand that restrictive diets for managing PCOS don’t work for women—and they may even make your symptoms worse.

Are Restrictive Diets Recommended for PCOS?

I knew restrictive diet plans were not for me. Therefore, I decided to reduce my portion size and have a meal routine instead. For instance, for breakfast, I will have some protein included in my meal, whether it is turkey sausage or bacon. In addition, I make a delicious protein shake if I do not want to eat a big meal.

Also, growing up in Belize, Central America, rice is one of our main food staples. So, I do not entirely restrict myself from rice but alternate between white or brown rice, depending on the meal. Don’t get me wrong, restrictive diets marketed for PCOS are tempting. They claim to offer a simple solution to a complex problem: cut out certain foods, and everything will be fine. But if you’ve tried this approach, you know that it’s not that simple or easy to do.

The Importance of Protein and Healthy Fats for PCOS

The truth is that women with PCOS have unique needs that a one-size-fits-all diet can’t meet. Our bodies need nutrients to support energy levels, hormone balance, and well-being. When women with PCOS severely restrict calories or eliminate entire food groups, they’re depriving their bodies of the very things they need to function optimally.

As women, we need to realize that our bodies are brilliant. When we restrict or deprive our bodies of food intake, especially women with PCOS, our bodies automatically go into survival mode and hold on to every calorie, making it even harder to lose weight or feel energized. Also, remember that restrictive diets may lead to nutrient deficiencies, which ultimately can aggravate PCOS symptoms like hair loss, irregular periods, and fatigue.

The good news is you don’t have to live this way. You can manage your PCOS and still enjoy the foods you love. Finding a balance between healthy, hormone-supportive foods and the occasional indulgence is the key to long-term success. I also recommend working with a registered dietitian who will be able to create a meal plan that meets the needs of your type of PCOS.

For example, incorporating healthy fats like avocado, nuts, and olive oil into my meals made a huge difference. These fats are essential for hormone production and help keep you feeling full and satisfied. Also, women with PCOS must eat protein-rich meals, which may include, eggs, beans, and lean meats such as ground turkey.

Moreover, since I struggled with carb cravings, I also started paying attention to the quantity of carbohydrates I was eating. Instead of avoiding carbs altogether, I chose whole grains, sweet potatoes, and legumes, which provided sustained energy without spiking my blood sugar.

Here’s a suggested list of healthy fats and protein for women with PCOS:

Healthy Fats:

Avocados – Rich in monounsaturated fats, they help regulate hormones and support heart health.
Olive Oil – A great source of anti-inflammatory fats that support hormone balance.
Chia Seeds – Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce inflammation.
Nuts (Almonds, Walnuts) – High in healthy fats and fiber, they help keep you full and support blood sugar control.
Fatty Fish (Salmon, Mackerel) – Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce inflammation and support hormonal health.

Protein Foods:

Lean Poultry (Chicken, Turkey) – Great sources of lean protein that help stabilize blood sugar levels.
Eggs – Full of protein and essential nutrients like vitamin D, important for hormone regulation.
Greek Yogurt – High in protein and probiotics, supporting gut health and hormone balance.
Lentils and Beans – Plant-based proteins that also provide fiber and help regulate blood sugar.
Quinoa – A complete protein containing all nine essential amino acids, perfect for balancing hormones and providing sustained energy.

Embracing Food and Breaking Free from Restrictive Dieting for PCOS

When I finally broke free from the cycle of restrictive dieting, I started focusing on nourishing my body with foods that supported my hormone health. I discovered that simple, delicious meals could be satisfying and beneficial for managing my PCOS symptoms. Instead of focusing on what I couldn’t eat, I started to explore all the foods I could enjoy—foods that were good for my hormones and tasted fantastic.

Another game-changer was adding more protein to my diet. Protein is crucial for stabilizing blood sugar levels and keeping you full longer. I began experimenting with different protein sources, from lean meats like chicken and turkey to plant-based options like quinoa and lentils. Not only did this help balance my hormones, but it also made my meals more enjoyable and satisfying.

Restrictive diets for PCOS may promise quick fixes, but true balance comes from nourishing your body, not depriving it.

Kendra Richards

Shifting My Mindset: Food as Nourishment, Not the Enemy

But the most significant change I made was shifting my mindset around food. Instead of viewing food as the enemy, I started seeing it as a way to nourish and support my body. I learned to listen to my body’s signals—eating when hungry and stopping when I was full. Also, I allowed myself to enjoy the occasional treat without guilt. I realized that one indulgence wouldn’t derail my progress, whether it was some ice cream or fried chicken wings. It helped me stick to my healthy eating habits in the long run.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the idea of managing your PCOS without resorting to a restrictive diet, I want to reassure you that it’s possible. Start by adding more hormone-supportive foods to your diet rather than taking things away. Simple swaps, like choosing whole grains over refined ones or adding a handful of nuts to your salad, can make a big difference. Remember, it’s not about perfection—it’s about progress. Your journey with PCOS is unique, and finding what works for you may take some time. But the more you listen to and nourish your body with the foods it needs, the better you’ll feel.

One of the most empowering things I’ve learned on this journey is that you don’t have to suffer to manage your PCOS. You can create a lifestyle supporting your hormone health while enjoying the foods you love. It’s about finding balance and making choices that feel good to you—both physically and emotionally.

So go ahead, indulge in that piece of cake, savor that slice of pizza, and know that you’re still on the path to conquering your PCOS. It’s time to break free from the chains of restrictive dieting and embrace a more balanced, nourishing approach to eating. You deserve to enjoy your food and feel your best!

The post Why Restrictive Diets Don’t Work for PCOS appeared first on Herbal Harmony.