Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that affects the ovaries and can result in a range of symptoms, including irregular menstrual cycles, hormonal imbalances, insulin resistance, weight gain, acne, and excess hair growth. PCOS is a complex condition with multiple underlying factors, including genetic, hormonal, metabolic, and lifestyle influences.
Functional medicine can offer a holistic approach to managing PCOS by addressing the underlying root causes of the condition and promoting overall wellness. Here are some key principles of managing PCOS with functional medicine:
- Comprehensive evaluation: A functional medicine practitioner will conduct a thorough evaluation of the patient’s medical history, family history, lifestyle, diet, and other relevant factors to understand the unique factors contributing to their PCOS. This may include hormone level testing, blood sugar monitoring, and other assessments to gather information about the patient’s hormonal balance, insulin sensitivity, and other relevant markers.
- Lifestyle modifications: Lifestyle factors play a crucial role in managing PCOS. Functional medicine may involve recommendations for healthy diet and regular physical activity to support weight management, insulin sensitivity, and hormonal balance. This may include a low-glycemic, anti-inflammatory diet that focuses on whole foods, adequate protein, healthy fats, and fiber, while minimizing refined carbohydrates, added sugars, and processed foods. Regular physical activity can help improve insulin sensitivity, support weight management, and promote overall health.
- Nutritional interventions: Nutrition is a key component of functional medicine, and a functional medicine practitioner may provide specific recommendations for dietary modifications tailored to the patient’s individual needs. This may include addressing insulin resistance, supporting hormonal balance, and managing inflammation through targeted nutrient interventions, such as using supplements like inositol, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants.
- Hormonal balance: Hormonal imbalances are often a hallmark of PCOS, and functional medicine may involve strategies to support hormonal balance. This may include managing insulin resistance, optimizing thyroid function, supporting adrenal health, and balancing sex hormones through targeted interventions, such as lifestyle modifications, nutritional supplements, and herbal remedies.
- Stress management: Chronic stress can exacerbate PCOS symptoms, and stress management techniques, such as mindfulness, relaxation techniques, and adequate sleep, may be recommended as part of a functional medicine approach to managing PCOS. Reducing stress can help balance hormones, improve insulin sensitivity, and promote overall wellness.
- Detoxification: Functional medicine may involve supporting the body’s natural detoxification pathways to reduce toxic burden and promote hormonal balance. This may include strategies to reduce exposure to environmental toxins, support liver health, and promote efficient elimination of toxins from the body.
- Monitoring and follow-up: Managing PCOS with functional medicine typically involves ongoing monitoring and follow-up to assess progress and make adjustments to the treatment plan as needed. This may involve regular check-ups, hormone level testing, and reassessment of lifestyle factors and treatment strategies to ensure optimal results.
It’s important to note that PCOS is a complex condition and requires an individualized approach to management. Working with a qualified functional medicine practitioner can help develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses the unique needs and goals of the patient with PCOS. It’s also important to collaborate with other healthcare providers, such as endocrinologists, gynecologists, and registered dietitians, to provide comprehensive care for PCOS management.
Do you think functional medicine might be the right approach for you? Click here to book a wellness consultation call with me and get started on your wellness journey!
Take a look at my fullscript formulary, where you can check out my PCOS and ovarian wellness protocol as well.