In most cases, dealing with PCOS can be tough. Many women with PCOS end up frustrated with treatments that only address the symptoms, not the root causes. That’s where a comprehensive functional medicine plan can make a real difference.
Unlike traditional approaches that tend to focus on managing individual symptoms, functional medicine takes a deeper, more holistic look at your overall health. It’s all about understanding the underlying factors contributing to PCOS and working to restore balance in the body. With the help of practices like fertility acupuncture and other natural therapies, functional medicine can help you tackle PCOS. Let’s see how!
What causes PCOS?
PCOS stems from a mix of hormonal imbalances, genetics, and lifestyle factors. Insulin resistance—a key driver—causes the body to overproduce insulin, which can trigger excess androgens (male hormones). This disrupts ovulation, leading to ovarian cysts and symptoms like acne and unwanted hair growth.
Genetics also play a role, as certain hormone-regulating genes and a family history of PCOS may increase your risk. Lifestyle factors like obesity, poor diet, and a sedentary routine can worsen insulin resistance and hormone disruption. High stress, lack of sleep, and exposure to hormone-disrupting chemicals further stack the odds, making it vital to address PCOS holistically.
What is the holistic approach to PCOS?
Conventional medicine often relies on pharmaceutical medications to manage the symptoms of PCOS. While these can be effective for symptom relief, they don’t always address the underlying causes of the condition. That’s where functional medicine offers an alternative:
Balanced diet
Diet plays a key role in supporting ovarian health, fertility, and metabolism, which is why dietary guidance is often part of managing PCOS. A 2022 review found that low-carb diets may help balance hormones, with positive effects including increased SHBG, and decreased AMH, free androgen index, and total testosterone. This diet may also improve clinical outcomes like higher pregnancy rates, regular ovulation, fewer miscarriages, and reduced symptoms of hyperandrogenism. The review also highlighted that better results are linked to greater dietary adherence. Additionally, meal timing and distribution—such as a high-calorie breakfast and lower-calorie dinner—can improve insulin sensitivity and ovulation.
Supplements
By incorporating proper supplements into your routine, you may find improvements in symptoms related to PCOS, such as insulin resistance, inflammation, and hormonal fluctuations. As always, it’s important to consult with a Functional Medicine specialist before adding them to ensure they align with your individual health needs.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D plays a key role in regulating immune and inflammatory pathways, blood sugar, and ovarian function. Deficiency in vitamin D has been linked to insulin resistance, inflammation, and various hormonal conditions in women. The appropriate dosage and duration depend on individual lab values, but typical maintenance doses range from 2,000 to 5,000 IU daily.
Fertility acupuncture & meditative practices
Fertility acupuncture and meditative practices are essential for fertility, especially when managing conditions like PCOS, because they support both the body and mind. Acupuncture helps improve blood flow to the ovaries and uterus, balance hormones, and reduce stress, all of which can boost ovulation and overall reproductive health. Meditative practices, like mindfulness and yoga, help lower stress by calming the nervous system and reducing cortisol levels, which is important since high stress can interfere with fertility. When used together, these holistic approaches can enhance traditional treatments for PCOS by addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of fertility, creating a healthier, more supportive environment for conception.
Where can I find acupuncture for fertility and other holistic treatments nearby?
Where can I find acupuncture for fertility and other holistic treatments nearby?If you’re tired of just managing your PCOS symptoms and want a solution that truly works for you, Oasis Healing Arts is the place to be. Our holistic approach focuses on restoring balance and improving your overall health, addressing the root causes of PCOS rather than just masking the symptoms. Get in touch with us today and let us help you take the next step toward feeling like your best self. Together, we can create a plan that works for your unique needs and helps you live a more balanced life.