Importance of Hormonal Balance in Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is on the rise, and is diagnosed in approximately 12-21% of Australian Women. 

However, the actual prevalence of PCOS is likely much higher, as it is estimated that 70% of women with PCOS are undiagnosed.

Common symptoms of PCOS include:

• Irregular or missing periods 

• Abdominal weight gain  

• Weight loss resistance 

• Acne

• Unusual hair growth on the face, chest and nipples

• Blood sugar issues 

• Hair loss or thinning hair 

• Anxiety and depression

• Impaired fertility

You are at risk of PCOS if you:

• Have a family history of PCOS or type two diabetes 

• Experience insulin resistance or blood sugar issues 

• Are overweight 

• Eat a high refined carbohydrate diet 

What is PCOS?

PCOS is a complex condition characterised by high androgen levels and menstrual irregularities.

Androgens are hormones that are typically found in higher amounts in males, the most typical of which is testosterone.

An inappropriate increase of testosterone production in females throws our natural hormonal rhythm out of balance, causing changes throughout the whole body.

‘Polycystic ovaries’ is a typical finding in women with PCOS, which is characterised by having a higher number of small eggs developing in the ovaries at one time compared to usual.

However, it is important to note that polycystic ovaries on ultrasound can be observed in women with healthy menstrual cycles and normal androgen levels. This is why it is important to also test for hormones before a diagnosis of PCOS is made. 

Why do I have PCOS?

PCOS is a complex condition that is associated with various risk factors:

• Insulin resistance -Insulin is a chemical messenger which shuttles sugar from our blood stream into our cells. When we have high blood sugar, we release more insulin to help push sugar from the blood into the cells. High insulin levels can increase ovarian testosterone production.

• Being overweight - being overweight increases the risk of blood sugar issues and insulin resistance.However, it is important to note that women in a healthy weight range can still experience PCOS.

• High refined sugar diet - having a diet high in refined sugars like pasta, white rice, white bread, bottled sauces, cakes and lollies increase blood sugar and insulin levels. 

• Genetics - PCOS is more common in women with family members with this condition, indicating its genetic link.

• Post oral contraceptive pill - some women will experience a temporary surge in androgens after coming off the pill, contributing to a transient PCOS state.

Image retrieved from: https://hudabeauty.com/us/en_US/blog/polycystic-ovaries-61614.html

How do I know if I have PCOS?

A diagnosis of PCOS should be made with a medical specialist, such as a gynaecologist. 

A PCOS diagnosis is usually made upon ultrasound of the ovaries, where more than the usual number of follicles - sacs containing eggs - are observed.

An ovarian ultrasound must be followed with testing for hormonal levels (such as testosterone), blood sugar and insulin. In a typical PCOS diagnosis, these parameters will be elevated.

If hormonal and blood sugar parameters are within the normal range, PCOS is unlikely. Polycystic ovaries can be normal for women with a healthy menstrual cycle.

Importantly, women without polycystic ovaries on ultrasound can still have PCOS. In this case, symptoms together with elevated testosterone, and insulin or blood sugar are suggestive. 

What can I do? 

The medical treatment for PCOS is usually the pill. The pill simply masks PCOS, and does not fix this condition.

In some cases, medications to lower insulin levels are prescribed. However, these medications do not address the root cause of high insulin - which is usually related to diet and weight. 

At FLOW naturopathy, we get to the core of your PCOS by identifying and addressing the underlying factors.

We then create a treatment plan for long term results, focusing on life changing dietary and lifestyle modifications, and gentle herbs and nutrients that have the potential to put your PCOS into remission.

The goals of Naturopathic care for PCOS include:

• Lower blood sugar and insulin levels

• Reduce testerone levels and balance other hormones

• Weight management 

• Regulate the period 

• Support a balanced mood.

At FLOW, we acknowledge that all females with PCOS are on a different journey, and we are here for each and every one of you.