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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 dybiosis, 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.
Symptoms
- 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
Elevated androgens and disrupted luteinizing hormone (LH) levels impair ovulation.
Insulin Resistance
Excess insulin stimulates androgen production, disrupting hormonal balance.
Gut Dysbiosis
Imbalances in gut bacteria can increase inflammation, impair insulin sensitivity, and disrupt hormone regulation, contributing to PCOS symptoms.
Chronic Inflammation
Persistent low-grade inflammation exacerbates metabolic and hormonal imbalances.
Genetics
A family history of PCOS or related conditions raises susceptibility.
Lifestyle Factors
Poor diet, lack of exercise, chronic stress, and sleep disturbances.
Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Ovarian Axis Dysfunction
Disrupted communication between the brain and ovaries impacts hormone production.
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, which can worsen PCOS symptoms.
Gut Health Support
Focusing on gut healing (e.g., through probiotics or eliminating food sensitivities) as 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) are recommended to 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
Indole 3 Carbinol/DIM: Helps improve estrogen detoxification to bring down high levels of estrogen. Vitamin Bs: Supports energy production, proper methylation, and hormonal imbalances. Vitamin D: Low levels are common in women with PCOS and may help with insulin resistance and hormonal regulation. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Help reduce inflammation and improve insulin sensitivity. Magnesium: Can help reduce symptoms like fatigue, anxiety, and insulin resistance. Zinc: May help with hormonal balance and reduce acne or excess hair growth.
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, which can improve symptoms like irregular periods and infertility.