Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common, yet often misunderstood condition

that affects millions of women worldwide. It’s a complex hormonal disorder that can

impact various aspects of a woman's health, including menstrual cycles, fertility, and

even mental health. At Harmony Integrative Healthcare, we believe that understanding

the nuances of PCOS is the first step toward finding a treatment plan that works best for

you.

How is PCOS Diagnosed?

Diagnosing PCOS can be challenging due to its varied symptoms, which may include

irregular periods, excess androgen levels (which can cause symptoms like excessive

facial or body hair), and polycystic ovaries visible on ultrasound (however this is not

always the case). The diagnosis typically involves a combination of the following:

1. Medical History and Symptom Review: Your healthcare provider will take a thorough

health history which includes menstrual history, weight changes, digestion, energy and

stress assessment, and other symptoms you may be experiencing.

2. Physical Examination: includes checking for signs of excess hair growth, acne, and

other physical manifestations of high androgen levels.

3. Blood Tests: These help to measure hormone levels, including testosterone, DHEA-s,

luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), insulin/blood sugar levels,

thyroid function, and other indicated labs.

4. Ultrasound: A pelvic ultrasound may be performed to check for the presence of

multiple small cysts on the ovaries, which is one of the hallmark signs of PCOS.

However, these are not always present in patients with PCOS.

A diagnosis of PCOS is typically confirmed if at least two of the following are present:

irregular periods, excess androgen levels, and/or polycystic ovaries.

Conventional Treatment Approaches:

Conventional medicine primarily focuses on managing the symptoms of PCOS, as there

is no cure for the condition. Treatments often include:

1. Hormonal Birth Control: To regulate menstrual cycles, reduce androgen levels, and

help with acne and excessive hair growth.

2. Anti-Androgen Medications: These can help reduce the effects of excess androgen,

such as hair growth and acne.

3. Metformin: This is commonly used to manage insulin resistance, which is often

associated with PCOS, and can also help with weight management and ovulation.

4. Fertility Medications: For women trying to conceive, medications like Clomiphene or

Letrozole may be prescribed to stimulate ovulation.

Naturopathic Approaches to Treating PCOS:

At Harmony Integrative Healthcare, we take a holistic approach to treating PCOS,

focusing on the root causes of your symptoms and creating a personalized treatment

plan. Our naturopathic treatments may include:

1. Dietary Modifications: We focus on a balanced diet with nutrient-dense whole foods,

healthy fats, and lean proteins. We help you develop a sustainable nutritional plan

that addresses your symptoms and deficiencies.

2. Lifestyle Changes: A healthy diet and regular exercise are often recommended to

help manage weight and improve insulin sensitivity.

3. Herbal Medicine: Herbal supplements, such as Vitex (Chaste Tree Berry), Inositol,

and Saw Palmetto, may be used to support hormonal balance and improve

symptoms naturally.

4. Acupuncture: There is plenty of research that shows that acupuncture can help

regulate menstrual cycles, reduce stress, and improve fertility.

5. Nutritional Supplements: Depending on your specific needs, supplements like

Omega-3 fatty acids, Magnesium, and Vitamin D may be recommended to support

overall health and hormone balance.

6. Stress Management: Since stress can exacerbate PCOS symptoms, we incorporate

stress-reducing techniques like mindfulness, yoga, and breathing exercises into your

treatment plan.

7. Personalized Care: Every woman’s experience with PCOS is unique, which is why

we take the time to understand your individual needs and concerns. We work

alongside you to create a sustainable plan that addresses the root causes of your

symptoms.

Why Choose Harmony Integrative Healthcare?

At Harmony Integrative Healthcare, we’re committed to providing you with the care and

support you need to manage your PCOS effectively. We believe that true health comes

from addressing the root causes of your symptoms, not just masking them with

medication. Our integrative approach combines the best of conventional and

naturopathic medicine, offering you a comprehensive and personalized treatment plan

that aligns with your unique needs.

Take the First Step Towards Better Health

If you're struggling with PCOS and are looking for a more natural, holistic approach to

managing your symptoms, we’re here to help. Schedule a discovery call with us today,

and let’s work together to create a treatment plan that works for you. At Harmony

Integrative Healthcare, we’re dedicated to helping you achieve optimal health and

balance

Dr Danielle Lewis, NMD