PCOS & Infertility
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a complex hormonal condition that affects millions of women, often leading to symptoms like irregular periods, weight gain, acne, hair loss, and fertility challenges.
PCOS & Infertility
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a complex hormonal condition that affects millions of women, often leading to symptoms like irregular periods, weight gain, acne, hair loss, and fertility challenges. Functional medicine takes a root-cause approach to PCOS, addressing the underlying imbalances such as insulin resistance, inflammation, gut dysbiosis, and hormonal dysregulation. By focusing on personalized nutrition, stress management, lifestyle modifications, and targeted supplementation, functional medicine empowers women to restore hormonal harmony and improve overall health. This holistic approach not only alleviates symptoms but also supports long-term well-being and vitality for those navigating PCOS.s
Symptoms of PCOS & Infertility
- Irregular or missed periods
- Painful periods
- Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
- Excess facial or body hair
- Hormone imbalance
- Acne or oily skin
- Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
- Thinning hair
- Sleep disturbances or sleep apnea
- Increased cravings for carbohydrates or sugar
- Difficulty concentrating or "brain fog"
- Breast tenderness
- Ovarian cysts
- Pelvic pain
- Endometriosis
- Fatigue
- Mood swings, depression, or anxiety
- Anovulation
- Irregular or absent menstrual cycles, indicating ovulation issues
- Recurrent miscarriages
Causes
Hormonal Imbalances
Insulin Resistance
Gut Dysbiosis
Chronic Inflammation
Genetics
Lifestyle Factors
Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Ovarian Axis Dysfunction
Environmental Toxins
Chronic Stress
Treatments can include
Dietary Changes
A whole-food, anti-inflammatory diet focused on balanced macronutrients (protein, fats, and carbohydrates) and rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to regulate hormones and support insulin sensitivity.
Stress Management
Techniques like meditation, yoga, deep breathing exercises, and acupuncture to reduce cortisol levels.
Gut Health Support
Focusing on gut healing (e.g., through probiotics or eliminating food sensitivities) because there is a strong connection between gut health and hormone balance.
Blood Sugar Management
Using a low-glycemic diet, metformin, and supplements like inositol (often myo-inositol and D-chiro inositol) improve insulin sensitivity and reduce the effects of insulin resistance.
Exercise
Regular physical activity, including strength training and aerobic exercises, to improve insulin sensitivity, balance hormones, and support weight management.
Supplements
Such as: Inositol, Indole 3 Carbinol/DIM, Vitamin B, Vitamin D, Omega-3 Fatty Acids, Magnesium, Zinc, and Berberine
Bioidentical Hormone Therapy
In some cases, natural hormones (like progesterone) may be used to help balance menstrual cycles and regulate estrogen levels.
Liver Detox
Supporting liver function to help process and remove excess hormones like estrogen and androgens that may exacerbate PCOS symptoms.
Weight Management
Aiming for a healthy weight to reduce insulin resistance and hormone imbalances can improve symptoms like irregular periods and infertility.