Let’s talk about PCOS
PCOS, Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome is thought to affect up to 1 in 10 women in the UK. PCOS is associated with increased long-term risks such as metabolic diseases; diabetes, fatty liver, obesity, and osteoporosis.
Symptoms present differently in each individual and may include:
Irregular bleeding
Heavy bleeding
Acne
Excess body and facial hair
Weight gain, or difficulty losing weight
Difficulty conceiving
Symptoms of oestrogen excess eg PMS, tender breast, fibrocystic breasts
A criteria called the Rotterdam Criteria is still used to aid diagnosis. This requires two out of the three findings:
Irregular periods
Biochemical markers such as raised androgens or altered FSH: LH ration
Multiple follicles on transvaginal ultrasound… not follicles NOT CYSTS!
PCOS is actually a condition with far more complexity than this. The diagnostic criteria are essentially the demonstration, or symptoms of a complex web of hormonal and biochemical interconnections involving the brain, ovaries, insulin, adrenal, thyroid, liver, and gut.
An Individualised approach, is needed to treat PCOS to ensure that we use appropriate testing to identify the type of PCOS and contributing root causes for each individual.
In conventional medicine, PCOS is seen as a single diagnosis. From an Integrative or Functional perspective we have come to understand that there are actually 4 different types of PCOS and under each of these there are even more contributing, but again interconnecting root causes.
In short, we can say that PCOS is a description of the collection of symptoms a woman experiences as a result of interconnected underlying root causes involving a web of hormones, environmental and epigenetics factors, and inflammation.
Conventionally PCOS is often treated with some form of contraceptive to mask the symptoms. This works by switching off the interconnection between the brain and the ovaries so that a hormonal cycle is switched off by artificial or synthetic hormones.
Hopefully with a greater understanding that there is much more below the surface than the symptoms, one can appreciate the need and importance for future health to address the issue from the root upwards. That is how we treat PCOS through an Individualised approach, which is the hallmark of functional medicine, to ensure that we use appropriate testing to identify the type of PCOS and contributing root causes for each individual.
To summaries, PCOS is a multi-faceted, multi-system syndrome that for many can be reversible. By instigating simple changes, marked long-lasting life-enhancing benefits can be achieved. An individualised approach to understanding each person's driver behind the PCOS symptoms is the key to facilitating hormonal balance, reduced symptoms, and greater long-term health.
So talk to us if you are suffering from PCOS and would like further information about our approach and how we can support you.