Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) affects millions of women worldwide, and is one of the most common causes of infertility among women. While conventional treatments focus primarily on masking symptoms, such as through the use of hormonal birth control to suppress ovulation, a holistic approach to PCOS addresses the root cause imbalances underlying the condition while also supporting whole body health.
Understanding PCOS
PCOS is a hormonal disorder that affects approximately 1 in 9 women, characterised by irregular menstrual cycles, ovarian cysts, elevated levels of androgens (male hormones) in the body, and imbalances in oestrogen and progesterone. Symptoms can vary widely and may include irregular periods, anovulatory cycles, acne, weight gain, hirsuitism, thinning hair on the head, PMS as a result of relative oestrogen excess, weight gain, and fertility issues. While the exact cause of PCOS is not yet fully understood, factors such as genetic predisposition, insulin resistance, inflammation, gut dysbiosis and blood sugar regulation are believed to play a role.
An Integrated Strategy
An integrative approach to managing PCOS focuses on using the best of conventional and holistic medicine to address the underlying factors contributing to the condition, rather than just suppressing symptoms. Here are a few key principles of a holistic approach for PCOS management:
Nutrition
Dietary choices play a crucial role in managing PCOS symptoms and promoting hormonal balance. Make sure you are emphasising unprocessed, antioxidant-rich and nutrient-dense foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole food proteins, and healthy fats, while minimising processed foods, sugar, and refined carbohydrates. Incorporating anti-inflammatory foods and supporting blood sugar regulation can help improve insulin sensitivity and reduce inflammation associated with PCOS.
Lifestyle Modifications
Lifestyle factors such as stress management, exercise, and adequate rest are essential components of PCOS management. And because women with PCOS have higher rates of mental issues like depression and anxiety, caring for your mental wellbeing is paramount. Stress can exacerbate hormonal imbalances, so incorporating techniques that calm the nervous system such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing can be beneficial. Regular physical activity, and specifically resistance training, can also help improve insulin sensitivity, regulate menstrual cycles, and support weight management in women with PCOS.
Supplementation
Certain supplements may help the body to rebalance and renew, and may offer additional support for women with PCOS. For example, omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce inflammation and improve lipid profiles, while probiotics can help with gut flora, and supplements such as inositol and chromium may help improve insulin sensitivity and regulate menstrual cycles.
Toxins
Environmental toxins, pesticides, and other endocrine disrupting chemicals in our water, air, food, soil and consumer products can disorient the endocrine system by mimicking your body’s own natural hormones. For instance xenoestrogens, including BPA and phthalates, have oestrogenic-like effects on living organisms. These compounds may lead to hormonal imbalances that can worsen symptoms of PCOS.
Personalised Support
Every woman with PCOS is unique, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach to management. An integrative health practitioner can work with you to develop a personalised wellness plan tailored to your individual needs, goals, and preferences.
If necessary or appropriate, your integrative health practitioner may recommend you purchase functional medicine lab testing to get a more in-depth overview of your condition. They may also collaborate with complementary health practitioners such as acupuncturists, herbalists, massage therapists and other holistic medicine providers to bring you the most comprehensive care plan.
Navigating PCOS can be challenging, but with the right support and guidance, women can take proactive steps to reduce symptoms, improve their quality of life, and reclaim their health. As an integrative health practitioner, I will listen to your concerns, taking into consideration your lifestyle and preferences to tailor a personalised wellness plan that supports hormonal balance, and works for you.
Want to learn more about how we can support you on your wellness journey? Contact us today.
You can also send health coaching enquiries directly to shannon@glowlifewellness.co.uk – please include your name, contact details, and a brief description of the area you need help with.
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