Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

What is PCOS?

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is characterized by a hormonal imbalance that can lead to a variety of symptoms. It gets its name from the numerous small cysts that can form on the ovaries, though not all women with PCOS will have these cysts. The key players in this condition are hormones, particularly androgens, which are often elevated in women with PCOS. This imbalance can disrupt the menstrual cycle and lead to issues like fertility challenges. 

​

Symptoms of PCOS 

The symptoms of PCOS can vary widely among women, making it a complex condition. 
Some common symptoms include:

• Irregular Menstrual Cycles: When androgens are elevated, ovulation may become irregular or absent. This can manifest as infrequent or prolonged periods, sometimes leading to missed cycles altogether. The lack of regular ovulation also means your body might not be producing enough progesterone, which is crucial for a healthy menstrual cycle. 

• Weight Gain: Many women with PCOS have trouble maintaining a healthy weight, largely due to insulin resistance - a condition where the body becomes less responsive to insulin. When your insulin levels rise, they can trigger the ovaries to produce even more androgens, perpetuating the cycle of hormonal imbalance and weight gain.

• Acne & Oily Skin: An increase in androgens often stimulates oil production in the skin, leading to acne breakouts and excessively oily skin. The hormonal imbalance can cause changes in your skin's microbiome, further exacerbating these issues. 

• Excess Hair Growth (Hirsutism): Elevated androgen levels can cause hair to grow in places typically associated with male-pattern hair growth, such as the face, chest, and back. This can be particularly distressing and affect self-esteem. 

• Thinning Hair: Hormonal imbalances can also lead to thinning hair on the scalp, resembling male-pattern baldness. This occurs when androgens affect hair follicle growth cycles, resulting in weaker and thinner hair strands. 

• Fertility Issues: Ovulatory dysfunction is a hallmark of PCOS, making it challenging to conceive. The hormonal imbalances can prevent the regular release of eggs, leading to irregular ovulation and impacting fertility. 

​

The Naturopathic Approach to PCOS 

Medicine is fluid, and there are many different paths to healing. Every individual is unique, and what works best for one person may differ for another. This is why I believe in a comprehensive and integrative approach to health - combining the best of naturopathic care with other evidence-based treatments to create a personalized plan that addresses your unique needs.

PCOS revolves around treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. Here is how we can tackle PCOS naturally, with a focus on specific treatments and their effects on hormonal balance:​​

Hormone Balancing

We'll focus on restoring hormonal balance using herbal medicine, nutritional counseling, and acupuncture. Certain herbs like spearmint and Vitex (Chaste Tree) have been shown to help regular hormones and reduce symptoms. 

Nutrition

A balanced diet is crucial for managing PCOS and insulin resistance. I emphasize the importance of whole, nutrient-dense foods and healthy fats while minimizing processed sugars and carbohydrates. Think of foods like leafy greens, lean proteins, and healthy fats as your allies!

Lifestyle Modifications

Stress plays a huge role in hormone imbalance. Together, we will explore stress reduction techniques, including mindfulness practices and exercise tailored to your lifestyle. Gentle activities like yoga and Tai Chi can be particularly effective in calming the mind and body. 
Acupuncture 

This ancient practice is fantastic for promoting hormonal balance and improving ovulatory function. By stimulating specific points, we can help regular your menstrual cycle and reduce symptoms, all while enjoying a little "me time"! 

Emotional Support

PCOS can take a toll on mental health. I encourage open discussions about emotional well-being, exploring therapies like counseling, journaling, or support groups to help you process feelings and build resilience. 

​

While PCOS can feel overwhelming, remember that you are not alone, and there are effective natural strategies to help you thrive. The journey to balance and well-being is a partnership between us, and I am here to guide you every step of the way. Whether it is rebalancing hormones, exploring dietary changes, or embracing acupuncture, we'll work together to navigate this journey with joy and empowerment. 

​

Let's take that first step toward managing your PCOS and restoring harmony to your body! If you are ready to dive deeper or have any questions, read my blog post about PCOS and feel free to book a free discovery call. Together, we can turn challenges into triumphs on your path to optimal health.