Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)
Creating balance. Restoring function.​​
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​​Comprehensive insight into PCOS​
Experience a holistic approach to PCOS management with personalized care to restore balance. We identify and address the root causes of PCOS symptoms, ensuring long-lasting health and well-being.
What is it?
Gaining insight into your condition
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal condition which affects up to 5 - 10% of women of reproductive age in the United States.
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PCOS stems from hormonal imbalance – an excess of male hormones – and can cause infertility.
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Finding a permanent treatment
Research has identified several consistent factors among those with PCOS, including family history, genetics, hormone levels, and lifestyle choices such as diet, activity levels, smoking, and alcohol consumption.
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This why our practitioners adopt a holistic, whole-body approach to treating PCOS, addressing its root causes for a more permanent. Our patients are achieving results they have sought for years with conventional medicine.
Symptoms of PCOS
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PCOS arises from hormonal imbalances and elevated levels of androgens, which are male hormones. Individuals with PCOS often have increased levels of androgens and insulin, leading to various symptoms such as acne, persistent weight gain, and excess facial hair.
Women with PCOS may also experience irregular ovulation, resulting in unpredictable menstrual cycles. An ultrasound may show numerous follicles with underdeveloped eggs on the ovaries.
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Signs and Symptoms of PCOS:
- Depression and anxiety
- Acne
- Sleep apnea
- Weight gain
- Excessive facial hair
- Thinning head hair
- Insulin resistance
- Elevated blood sugar
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Irregular periods
- Infertility
- Ovarian follicles
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PCOS manifests differently for each individual, and not everyone will experience all these symptoms, which also change over time. The term "polycystic ovary syndrome" can be misleading; the dark spots seen on ultrasound are follicles or underdeveloped eggs, not cysts.
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It's important to note that some women diagnosed with PCOS may actually have hypothalamic amenorrhea, a condition where menstruation ceases due to dysfunctional signaling in the brain. This misdiagnosis often occurs because of the absence of menstruation, although the ovarian appearance on ultrasound can be similar; treatment approaches differ for both conditions.
Causes of PCOS​
The exact causes of PCOS remain unclear, but several common factors have been identified individuals with the condition.
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Approximately 95% of those with PCOS also face insulin resistance, hindering insulin's ability to transport glucose from the bloodstream into the cells for energy use. This leads to increased insulin and glucose levels in the blood, with excess glucose being stored fat. Over half of individuals with PCOS are likely develop type 2 diabetes by the age of 40.
Those who have a mother, aunt, or sister with PCOS have a 50% higher chance of developing the condition.
Functional medicine for PCOS
​​The functional medicine approach to PCOS is comprehensive and focuses on addressing the root rather than just alleviating symptoms. At Balance Functional Medicine we begin with functional testing to identify various contributing, such as hormone levels, thyroid and adrenal function, and liver health, before creating a tailored protocol to assist you in:
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Hormone Balance
Restoring hormonal balance can enable the ovaries to function normally, leading to regulated menstrual cycles, improved skin health, and reduced body hair growth. Our practitioners may utilize anti-androgen herbal remedies like liquorice and white peony, which convert testosterone to estrogen. Additionally, inositol combined with folate can help lower testosterone-related acne and hair growth, while Vitamin D can normalize elevated Anti-Mullerian Hormone (H) levels often seen in PCOS.
Healthy Weight Loss
Weight loss can enhance insulin sensitivity, lower blood glucose levels, and promote hormonal balance. Current guidelines 150-250 minutes of moderate activity or at least 75 of vigorous exercise weekly, including strength training twice a week. A low glycemic diet rich in whole foods, while minimizing inflammatory foods like gluten, dairy, and sugar, can further support healthy weight loss.
Improving Thyroid Function
An underactive thyroid can heighten risk of PCOS. Interestingly, some conventional treatments like Metformin may negatively impact thyroid function. iodine intake through supplements or iodine-rich such as seaweed and saltwater fish can be beneficial for both thyroid and ovarian health.​
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Balancing Blood Sugar
Alongside dietary and lifestyle adjustments, various supplements such as cinnamon, chromium, magnesium, berberine, probiotics can help lower blood glucose levels.
Stress Reduction
Chronic stress can impair adrenal function leading to increased production of stress hormones and androgens. This cycle can contribute to mood disorders, weight gain, acne, and unwanted hair growth, while also causing fatigue that hampers exercise. Our functional medicine physician can help personalize a protocol focused on reducing stress, boosting energy, and enhancing mood through a combination of herbal remedies and lifestyle modifications, including improved sleep and relaxation techniques.
Ready for a personalized, natural functional medicine treatment?
Our unique model of care was designed with you in mind. Find out how, then book a call today.
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