Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormone disorder that affects many women, causing symptoms like irregular periods, weight gain, acne, and excessive hair growth. PCOS happens when the body produces too many androgens, or “male hormones,” which can disrupt the balance of estrogen and progesterone. It is also closely linked to insulin resistance, making it harder for the body to regulate blood sugar and metabolism.
How Functional Medicine Helps PCOS
Traditional treatments for PCOS often focus on symptom management, but functional medicine looks for the root cause. Instead of just prescribing medication, functional medicine takes a whole-body approach by balancing hormones, improving insulin sensitivity, and reducing inflammation.
• Balancing Hormones: PCOS often causes estrogen dominance and low progesterone. This imbalance can lead to irregular cycles, mood swings, and fertility struggles. Functional medicine works to support natural hormone production by improving gut health, reducing stress, and using targeted supplements.
• Improving Insulin Sensitivity: Many women with PCOS have insulin resistance, which makes it harder for the body to use glucose properly. This can lead to stubborn weight gain and sugar cravings. A functional medicine approach focuses on stabilizing blood sugar with a high-protein, low-sugar diet, along with key nutrients like magnesium and inositol to improve insulin function.
• Reducing Inflammation: Chronic inflammation can make PCOS symptoms worse. Processed foods, stress, and environmental toxins all contribute to inflammation. Functional medicine helps by removing inflammatory triggers and adding anti-inflammatory foods like leafy greens, wild-caught fish, and healthy fats.
Finding the Right Doctor for Care
PCOS is not a one-size-fits-all condition, and every woman’s body responds differently. A doctor trained in functional medicine will run the right tests to check hormone levels, blood sugar balance, and gut health. This allows for a personalized treatment plan that addresses the specific causes of PCOS symptoms.
PCOS can feel frustrating, but there is hope for relief. With the right support, hormone balance can be restored, metabolism can improve, and symptoms can become easier to manage. Functional medicine offers a natural and effective way to take control of PCOS and feel better long-term.