Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) was long ignored and underdiagnosed in women of all ages. It is also a somewhat misleading term. We now prefer to think of PCOS as a manifestation of hyperandrogenism and possibly metabolic imbalances. What does that mean?

Hyperandrogenism refers to an inappropriate ratio in your reproductive hormones, which often interferes with your ability to ovulate and have regular menstrual cycles. It can also be the cause of other changes in your body affecting hair growth and loss, weight gain, and diminished stress resilience. Metabolic imbalances are often linked to insulin resistance and put you at higher risk for metabolic syndrome, diabetes, and other chronic diseases.

The effect of this condition on your ovaries can lead to the appearance of “strings of pearls” on ultrasound, which is commonly observed but by itself not diagnostic and also not present in all women with PCOS.

In our work together, we leverage a PCOS-focused nutrition strategy that improves insulin response and helps bring your hormones into better balance. This can also improve your digestion and mood, not to mention increase your chances of conceiving naturally, if that’s what you are pursuing. Several botanical medicines and nutritional supplements have shown great promise in supporting women with PCOS, and we will advise and guide you on their use.

Many women with PCOS experience increased stress in their lives and find that acupuncture not only alleviates their symptoms but also helps them cope.