Understanding PCOS: A Functional Medicine Approach

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a complex hormonal condition affecting millions of women. It’s frustrating, often misunderstood, and can leave you feeling like there’s no real solution. At Alternative Family Medicine & Chiropractic, we take a holistic, functional medicine approach to PCOS—focusing not just on managing symptoms, but on uncovering and addressing the root causes.

If you’ve been dealing with PCOS, you’ve probably encountered some of its most common symptoms:

Symptoms of PCOS

  • Weight struggles: Gaining weight easily and finding it challenging to lose.
  • Skin changes: Acne and unwanted hair growth in places like your face, chest, arms, or feet (hirsutism).
  • Hair loss: Thinning hair on your scalp, often mistaken for typical hair thinning.
  • Fertility issues: Trouble conceiving, and in some cases, repeated miscarriages.
  • Mood swings and fatigue: Anxiety, depression, and irritability are common companions.
  • Pelvic pain: Pain during your menstrual cycle or even at other times.

These symptoms can feel overwhelming, but they’re only part of the picture. PCOS doesn’t just affect your physical health, it can take a toll on your emotional well-being, self-esteem, and relationships.

What Makes PCOS So Complex?

PCOS is unique because it affects multiple systems in the body. It’s tied to:

  • Endocrine function: Hormonal imbalances, particularly elevated androgens (male hormones), disrupt normal body processes.
  • Metabolism: Insulin resistance is often a driving force behind PCOS, affecting up to 70% of women with the condition.
  • Inflammation: Low-grade inflammation caused by infections, food sensitivities, or other factors can worsen symptoms.

Mainstream Treatments for PCOS

Most traditional treatments focus on managing individual symptoms rather than addressing the root cause. Common mainstream options include:

  • Metformin: A medication originally designed for Type II Diabetes, which helps regulate blood sugar and insulin sensitivity.
  • Birth control pills: Often prescribed to balance hormones and regulate menstrual cycles.

Our Functional Medicine Approach to PCOS

At Alternative Family Medicine & Chiropractic, we believe that true healing comes from understanding the whole person. Our approach focuses on finding the root causes of your PCOS and helping your body heal naturally.

Step 1: Comprehensive Testing

We start by gathering a detailed picture of your health. This includes reviewing your medical history and conducting blood work to assess:

  • Inflammation markers: Detecting hidden infections or yeast overgrowth.
  • Food sensitivities: Identifying potential triggers like gluten or dairy.
  • Hormonal imbalances: Understanding how your hormones are interacting with your metabolism.
  • Insulin resistance: Determining if blood sugar dysregulation is a key factor in your symptoms.

By uncovering these underlying issues, we can create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Step 2: Resetting Insulin Resistance

Research has shown a strong link between insulin resistance and PCOS. In fact, many women with PCOS have difficulty processing insulin, leading to hormonal disruptions.

We focus on naturally resetting your body’s insulin sensitivity through:

  • Dietary adjustments: Recommending a nutrient-rich, low-glycemic diet.
  • Exercise routines: Incorporating movement to stabilize blood sugar levels.

Step 3: Reducing Inflammation

Chronic, low-grade inflammation can make PCOS symptoms worse. We help you address this by identifying and eliminating triggers, such as:

  • Hidden infections.
  • Food intolerances.
  • Environmental factors.

Our goal is to calm your body’s inflammatory response, allowing your systems to function more efficiently.

Step 4: Balancing Hormones Naturally

Instead of using synthetic hormones or medications, we take a natural approach to restore balance. This includes:

  • Supporting your adrenal health.
  • Encouraging healthy ovulation.
  • Reducing excess androgens (male hormones).

By addressing these areas, we aim to bring your body into harmony and alleviate the symptoms of PCOS.

Why Functional Medicine Works for PCOS

Functional medicine treats PCOS as a systemic issue rather than isolating it to just one area of the body. By focusing on the interplay between your metabolism, hormones, and lifestyle, we can achieve results that are:

  • Long-lasting: No more temporary fixes—our approach is designed to help you maintain better health for life.
  • Comprehensive: We address the root causes, not just the symptoms.

Empowering: You’ll gain the knowledge and tools to take control of your health.

Your Journey to Better Health Starts Here

At Alternative Family Medicine & Chiropractic, we’re passionate about helping women with PCOS reclaim their health and vitality. Here’s what sets us apart:

  • Personalized Care: No two women experience PCOS the same way, so we create customized treatment plans just for you.
  • Whole-Body Focus: We don’t just treat symptoms; we work to bring your entire body into balance.
  • Natural Solutions: Our treatments prioritize your long-term health and well-being.

Real Stories, Real Results

“Dr. Barter is a very gifted healer! After just a few sessions, I felt a complete turnaround in my physical, mental, and emotional well-being. She is incredibly intuitive, highly knowledgeable, and uses techniques that truly work. I can always count on feeling tremendously better after seeing her. HIGHLY RECOMMEND!”

Take the First Step Today

PCOS can feel like a lifelong battle, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right approach, you can reduce or even eliminate your symptoms and live the life you deserve.Your journey to better health starts here.

Ready to take control of your health? Book an appointment today with Alternative Family Medicine & Chiropractic, and let’s work together to create a plan that works for you.

FAQs

PCOS is a hormonal disorder affecting women, characterized by irregular periods, ovarian cysts, and excess androgen levels.

Symptoms include irregular menstrual cycles, weight gain, acne, hair loss, excessive hair growth, and fertility issues.

The exact cause is unknown, but insulin resistance, hormonal imbalances, and genetics play a role.

Diagnosis is based on symptoms, blood tests (hormone levels, insulin resistance), and ultrasound imaging.

There is no cure, but symptoms can be managed with lifestyle changes, diet, exercise, and medical treatments.

PCOS can lead to irregular ovulation, making it harder to conceive, but treatments like lifestyle changes and fertility medications can help.

A low-carb, anti-inflammatory diet rich in whole foods, fiber, and healthy fats can help regulate blood sugar and hormones.

Yes, regular exercise improves insulin sensitivity, aids weight management, and balances hormones.

Yes, functional medicine focuses on root causes, offering personalized approaches like hormone balancing, gut health support, and detoxification.

Supplements like inositol, omega-3s, and vitamin D, along with stress management and quality sleep, can support PCOS management.

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AltFammed logo featuring dark text with a transparent background.