What is it?

Polycystic ovarian syndrome, or PCOS, is a condition in which the ovaries produce an abnormal amount of androgens (ie. testosterone) which are typically only present in females in small amounts. This hormonal imbalance can lead to cysts on the ovaries and cause menstrual irregularities and anovulation (no ovulation). There are different types of PCOS, and surprisingly not all types include the presence of cysts. The diagnosis of PCOS can be devastating for women hoping to conceive, as having PCOS can make fertility a struggle, but not impossible. Naturopathic medicine can make big changes in restoring hormonal balance.

Common symptoms of PCOS include:

• Weight gain

• Unwanted hair growth (facial or body hair)

• Scalp hair loss (male pattern baldness)

• Acne

• Menstrual irregularities or skipped/no periods

• Infertility

Approach to treatment

Comprehensive intake and relevant lab testing
We always start by gathering your complete health history, assessing not only the symptoms specific to PCOS, but also those which relate to the foundations of health, including stress and energy levels, sleep and digestive health. Relevant lab testing is always discussed. By obtaining lab results - specifically bloodwork - we get a clearer insight into the function of your body’s physiology. These insights are a great tool for guiding treatment. Naturopathic doctors are trained to look for lab results to be within optimal ranges, not just what may be considered conventionally “normal”. This is because you may be within all the normal lab parameters but still experience very real symptoms.

Lab tests commonly run to assess for PCOS may include:

• Blood insulin and glucose markers

• Cholesterol panel

• Female hormone panel

• Inflammatory markers

• Thyroid panel

• Nutrient status

• Ultrasound (run by your medical doctor/nurse practitioner)
  

Supporting the foundations of health
With any health concern, supporting the foundations of health is essential, and always where treatment starts. This includes assessing and addressing stress levels, sleep quality, energy levels, inflammation, digestion, insulin regulation, digestive function and nutrient deficiencies.

Customized treatment plan
Once lab results have been interpreted, a customized treatment plan will be created just for YOU. This is not a one-size-fits-all approach, but rather one that is specific to your individual health concerns that addresses your body’s unique physiology. You will leave your appointment with your written treatment plan, as well as any relevant handouts, so that you feel equipped to start your treatments when you get home.

Treatment often includes a combination of dietary recommendations as well as nutraceutical supplements, including vitamins, minerals and herbs.

Common treatments used to support PCOS include:

• Insulin resistant diet

• Antioxidants

• Management of blood sugar levels

• Herbs to manage stress levels

• Hormone balancing herbs

We understand that starting on a new regime of supplements and implementing lifestyle and dietary changes can be overwhelming. If you need support along the way, know that we are here for you. Additional check-in appointments can be made to support you on your journey to optimal health.

Follow up testing and treatment adjustments
Typically we set up a follow up appointment 3 months and 6 month after starting your treatment plan so we can assess symptoms and retest necessary labs. It is our goal and our hope that after treatment has begun you will start to feel noticeable improvements. In some cases it’s not that simple and further assessment is required. Know that if you’re not seeing improvements, we can always reassess, do further testing and make adjustments to your plan along the way. The goal is to get you not only feeling better, but feeling like YOU again!

Maintenance - addressing any new concerns
While we are here for you at any time along your health journey, it is not our goal for you to need regular appointments. Once you’ve started to have success with your treatment plan you may only require annual, bi-annual or as-needed appointments. In these appointments, we assess the original concerns you presented with, as well as any new symptoms or concerns you are experiencing.