Understanding PCOS: An Endocrine and Metabolic Disorder

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a multifaceted condition that affects women worldwide, impacting their hormonal and metabolic health. As an endocrine disorder, PCOS disrupts the delicate balance of hormones such as insulin, androgens, and reproductive hormones. Additionally, it is a metabolic disorder, as it is often linked to insulin resistance, impaired glucose metabolism, and an increased risk of conditions like type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

What is PCOS?

PCOS manifests through a combination of hormonal imbalances and metabolic challenges. While its causes are not entirely understood, genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors all play a role. The key features of PCOS include:

Hormonal Imbalances: Elevated androgens ("male hormones") can lead to symptoms like acne, excessive hair growth (hirsutism), and scalp hair thinning. Imbalanced estrogen and progesterone levels can disrupt ovulation and menstrual cycles.
Insulin Resistance: A hallmark of PCOS, insulin resistance reduces the body’s ability to process glucose effectively, leading to elevated insulin levels that can drive further hormonal disruptions.
Metabolic Dysregulation: Women with PCOS often experience weight gain, difficulty losing weight, and increased fat storage, especially around the abdomen.
Polycystic Ovaries: Enlarged ovaries with multiple small cysts are a common finding, but not all women with PCOS have cysts, and not all women with cysts have PCOS.

The diagnosis of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

A typically diagnosis should follow the Rotterdam Criteria, established in 2003, which is widely used by healthcare professionals. To be diagnosed with PCOS, a patient must meet at least two of the following three criteria, after ruling out other potential causes of these symptoms:

1. Irregular Ovulation or Anovulation

Irregular menstrual cycles (less than 21 days or more than 35 days apart).
Skipped periods (oligomenorrhea) or absence of periods (amenorrhea).
This irregularity indicates that ovulation (the release of an egg) is not occurring consistently or at all.

2. Clinical or Biochemical Signs of Hyperandrogenism

Clinical Signs: Physical symptoms of elevated androgen levels, such as:
- Excessive facial or body hair growth (hirsutism), often following a male-pattern distribution.
- Severe or persistent acne.
- Scalp hair thinning or hair loss (androgenic alopecia).
Biochemical Signs: Blood tests showing elevated levels of androgens, such as testosterone or dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS).

3. Polycystic Ovaries on Ultrasound

Ovaries containing 12 or more small follicles (2-9 mm in diameter), often referred to as "cysts," or an ovarian volume greater than 10 mL.
This finding is assessed via a pelvic ultrasound and is not required for diagnosis if other criteria are met.

Additional Considerations

Exclusion of Other Disorders: Other conditions that can mimic PCOS symptoms must be ruled out, such as:
- Thyroid dysfunction.
- Hyperprolactinemia.
- Congenital adrenal hyperplasia.
- Androgen-secreting tumors.
- Cushing's syndrome.

Supporting Findings (Not Diagnostic but Common)

While not part of the diagnostic criteria, these are frequently observed in women with PCOS:

Insulin resistance or elevated fasting insulin levels.
Weight gain, especially in the abdominal area.
Mood disturbances, such as anxiety or depression.
Sleep disturbances, such as sleep apnea.

The Importance of Supporting Metabolism in PCOS Management

Focusing on metabolic health is a cornerstone of managing PCOS effectively. Insulin resistance and metabolic dysfunction often perpetuate the hormonal imbalances associated with PCOS. By improving metabolic function, women can experience better hormonal regulation, weight management, and reduced symptom severity.

Naturopathic and Natural Strategies to Manage PCOS

At Insync Naturopathy, we take a holistic approach that targets both the endocrine and metabolic aspects of PCOS.

Here are some of the strategies we use to support overall health and empower women with PCOS:

1. Supporting Metabolic Health Through Diet

A PCOS-friendly diet focuses on balancing blood sugar, improving insulin sensitivity, and reducing inflammation.

Low-Glycemic Foods: Choose slow-digesting carbohydrates like quinoa, sweet potatoes, and legumes to stabilize blood sugar levels.
Protein and Fibre: Incorporate lean proteins and fiber-rich foods to improve satiety and prevent insulin spikes.
Healthy Fats: Add omega-3 fatty acids (e.g., fatty fish, chia seeds) to reduce inflammation and improve metabolic function.
Anti-Inflammatory Foods: Include colorful vegetables, berries, turmeric, and green tea to lower systemic inflammation.

2. Herbal Medicine to Balance Hormones

Specific herbs can support both hormonal and metabolic balance:

Berberine: A natural compound shown to improve insulin sensitivity and support weight management.
Spearmint Tea: Known for its anti-androgen properties, which may help reduce acne and hirsutism.
Cinnamon: Helps regulate blood sugar and improve insulin response.
Vitex (Chaste Tree): Balances reproductive hormones and supports regular menstrual cycles.

3. Lifestyle Modifications

Lifestyle changes can significantly improve both metabolic and hormonal health:

Regular Exercise: Engage in strength training and moderate-intensity aerobic exercises to enhance insulin sensitivity and burn fat.
Stress Management: Chronic stress raises cortisol levels, which can worsen hormonal and metabolic imbalances. Mindfulness, yoga, and deep breathing are powerful tools to manage stress.
Adequate Sleep: Sleep deprivation negatively impacts insulin sensitivity and increases cravings for sugary foods. Prioritize 8-9 hours of quality sleep.

4. Nutritional Supplementation

Specific nutrients can target metabolic dysfunction in PCOS:

Inositol: A key nutrient for improving insulin sensitivity and restoring ovulatory function.
Magnesium: Regulates blood sugar levels and reduces inflammation.
Vitamin D: Plays a role in metabolic and reproductive health, as deficiencies are common in women with PCOS.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Reduces inflammation and supports hormonal health.

5. Addressing the Mind-Body Connection

PCOS management isn’t just physical—it’s emotional too. Chronic stress and negative body image can exacerbate symptoms.

Practices such as journaling, mindfulness, and working through unresolved emotional stressors help create a balanced state of well-being.

Why Choose Naturopathic Care for PCOS?

At Insync Naturopathy, we believe that treating PCOS requires addressing both the underlying causes and the whole person. By focusing on metabolic and hormonal health, as well as emotional and mental well-being, we create comprehensive, individualized care plans to help women achieve balance and thrive.

Empowering Women with PCOS

PCOS doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. By taking a holistic, natural approach to manage both the metabolic and hormonal aspects of this condition, you can reclaim control of your health and your life. At Insync Naturopathy, we’re here to support and guide you on your journey.

Contact us today to book a consultation and start your personalized wellness plan. Together, we’ll navigate the path to balance, vitality, and empowerment.

Written by Caitlyn Bosch | Insync Naturopathy

Understanding PCOS