PCOS affects 6-12% of women. Symptoms may include unwanted facial hair growth, weight gain, and irregular menstrual cycles.
Diagnosis of PCOS requires two out of these three criteria:
There are other conditions that can look like PCOS. It is important to work with a licensed healthcare practitioner such as Kamloops Naturopath Dr. Kayla who will take the time to do a thorough health history and choose appropriate testing.
What are the main features of PCOS?
Testing
If your doctor suspects PCOS, they may begin by referring you for a ultrasound. They may also recommend lab work, which will likely include testing hormones and metabolic markers.
Hormone testing may include estrogen, progesterone, free and total testosterone, DHEA-S, prolactin, and FSH and LH. When it comes to testing hormones, timing is important. Most of the hormones listed are best tested on Day 3 of the menstrual cycle, while progesterone is best tested 7 days before an expected period. My testing approach is comprehensive and specific for each person, with clear instructions on when to go to the lab.
Metabolic testing may include testing HbA1C and/or fasting insulin and glucose. Women with PCOS are more likely to have insulin resistance and are at greater risk of developing Type II diabetes. Naturopathic medicine is uniquely situated to address insulin resistance early on with a multifaceted approach with a focus on prevention, patient education, and emphasis on diet and lifestyle changes.
There are many complexities with PCOS. The presentation of symptoms, lab values, and treatments can look different for each patient. As we gain more information about PCOS from the research, I aim to integrate this into my assessment and treatment while covering the foundations. For example, individuals with PCOS are more likely to be deficient in melatonin, B12 and Vitamin D. The complexity of PCOS and the complexity of each individual gives all the more reason to take a thorough health history, assess comprehensively, and individualize treatment. I always aim to put my patient's goals at the forefront, whether that be fertility, weight loss, increased energy, balanced mood, or any other primary concern.
Treatment
Naturopathic Treatment approaches include restoring hormone balance, supporting ovulation, increasing insulin sensitivity and reducing inflammation. Specific diet and lifestyle changes are effective for all of these goals and are backed by research. There are several nutraceutical and herbal supplements that are also supported by research to improve insulin sensitivity, improve fertility, lower androgens, and decrease inflammation -- all relevant outcomes for people with PCOS.
If you reside in BC, suspect you may have PCOS and are looking for a comprehensive, patient-centred approach, feel free to book an initial visit with Kamloops Naturopath Dr. Kayla ND.
