Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome: Misunderstood, Misdiagnosed, and Management

 

At least 10% of women, that is over 5,000,000 women in the United States are affected by PCOS, with at least 50% of women suffering being misdiagnosed or undiagnosed altogether. The true number of women living with pain is far larger than any research has been able to detect. 

If you are diagnosed, the treatment is limited, at best, and most women are told they will have symptoms and ailments throughout their lives. Considered to be the most common endocrine disorder among fertile-aged women, it is no wonder that infertility is on the rise. 

A condition in which a woman over-produces the male sex hormones, PCOS means there is an imbalance of estrogen and androgens within the body. This can be noted by:

  • Facial Hair

  • Weight Gain

  • Ovarian Cysts

  • Irregular/Absent Menstrual Cycle

  • Acne

  • Hair Loss

  • Extreme Cramping and Pain

  • Infertility

  • Fatigue

  • Mood Swings

  • Pelvic Pain

  • Headaches

  • Sleep Problems 

  • Type II Diabetes

  • Eating Disorders

  • Cardiovascular Disease

  • Other Health Issues

PCOS is not only genetic, but it can be triggered through environmental factors, too. New research explores the high possibility that PCOS gene mutations can take place within the womb. This leads to environmental triggers bringing about symptoms if puberty does not. Obesity, chronic inflammation, poor diet/lifestyle choices, and exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals all play a role in the development of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome. 

Every PCOS case should be looked at independently, and treatment should be discussed and planned according to each woman. However, the best place to start is with a diet that restores insulin sensitivity to the body.

Dietary Changes

Fill your plate with high-quality protein (about 4 ounces worth):

  • Wild-caught fish

  • Organic Chicken

  • Grass-fed beef

  • Free-range eggs

  • Pasture-based dairy

Cut sugar: This means no processed or fast food items enter the body. Skip boxed foods and stick with whole foods. 

Healthy Fats (Remember to cook with fats that are good for your body):

  • Pasture-based butter

  • Organic Olive, Coconut, or Avocado Oil

Lifestyle Changes

Exercising daily improves metabolism and insulin sensitivity.

Avoiding endocrine-disruptive chemicals can lessen symptoms and improve fertility/pain experiences. Avoid the following:

  • BPA  (Found in food containers, liners, and cans)

  • Phthalates (Found in beauty products, plastic wraps, plastic containers)

  • Pesticides

  • PFCs (Found in non-stick cookware and fabrics)

  • Chemical Sunscreens (Any including oxybenzone)

Supplements

While working with a doctor, herbalist, homeopath, or team of your choice, you will find the right supplement combination for you. There are, however, several supplements that have been found to work individually or (as a powerhouse) altogether. You can find the following packaged together, but remember to find a high-quality supplement.

Maca: An estrogen balancing herb that increases energy, libido, and decreases stress, Maca can be looked at as an all-around bonus to your day. 

Calcium-D-Glucarate: At 25 mg daily, C-D-G has been shown to help the body eliminate excess hormones before they re absorbed, aiding in a positive balance.

Cinnamon: At 75 mg daily, cinnamon has been shown to help balance glucose levels.

Vitamin D: Low VitD levels are linked to almost every disease or illness known. PCOS is no exception. Vitamin D paired with calcium has been shown to normalize menstrual cycles.

Omega-3: The liver and cardiovascular health are both benefitted by taking the anti-inflammatory Omega-3’s.

D-Chiro Inositol: The most promising instill compound for PCOS. It can improve insulin sensitivity and ovulation.

 
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