Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a multifaceted endocrine and metabolic disorder, commonly characterised by a cluster of symptoms that may occur individually or in combination, including an-ovulation, infertility, obesity, insulin resistance, hirsutism, acne and the presence of polycystic ovaries.
In some cases, symptoms that seem like PCOS may be linked to a different underlying condition that needs further evaluation.
A variety of factors such as lifestyle and nutritional habits or deficiencies, exposure to environmental pollutants or hormone-disrupting chemicals, insufficient sleep, mold (mycotoxin) exposure, genetic predisposition, gut microbiota imbalances, increased intestinal permeability (leaky gut), infections, thyroid dysfunction, neuroendocrine disturbances, compromised stress response (HPA axis dysregulation), impaired detoxification pathways, and obesity can increase a woman’s risk of developing PCOS.
These factors may contribute to metabolic and reproductive complications by promoting hyperinsulinemia, oxidative stress, low-grade systemic inflammation, hyperandrogenism, disrupted follicular development, and irregular menstrual cycles.
‘You are not alone, and there is hope. Your body is never working against you...’
PCOS can feel like an emotional rollercoaster. Stress amplifies everything, creating a feedback loop where worry intensifies the cycle.
You are not alone, and there is hope. Your body is never working against you; rather, it communicates through symptoms signals that something within needs attention, guiding us toward the areas that require care.
PCOS Phenotypes – Everyone is unique
PCOS can present in various forms, known as phenotypes, which may overlap, each with distinct underlying causes. Because it manifests differently in each individual, diagnostic approaches and treatments should be personalised and targeted to the underlying causes.
Metabolic PCOS (IR)
Inflammatory PCOS
Post-Pill PCOS
Adrenal PCOS
Lean PCOS
PCOS Symptoms
Physical Symptoms: Irregular or absent periods, Excess hair (hirsutism), Acne, Weight gain, Thinning hair, Sleep issues
Mental/Emotional Symptoms: Mood swings, Anxiety, Low mood, depressive symptoms, Brain fog, Stress sensitivity
A Functional Medicine Approach to Healing from the Root
PCOS can present in different ways, and its causes vary from person to person.
That’s why diagnosis and treatment should be personalised and focused on identifying the root cause.
Addressing underlying imbalances appropriately can lead to meaningful improvements in hormone balance, overall health, and quality of life.
Your journey toward healing PCOS begins with understanding the root cause. Your body, history, and experiences matter.
Because PCOS develops over time, exploring your personal journey can help identify what may still be driving your symptoms today.
Through comprehensive health assessments, advanced functional testing, in-depth interpretation, nutritional therapy, tailored protocols (including supplements and nutraceuticals), and a deeply supportive therapeutic partnership, we work together to uncover and address the underlying causes of imbalance.
Our goal is not merely to manage symptoms, but to restore communication and balance within the body. By treating the whole system rather than isolated parts, we aim to break cycles that medication or hormonal therapies alone may not fully resolve.
At LITHE Health Clinic, we view symptoms as meaningful signals the body’s way of communicating what needs attention, support, and care.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Treatment & Care
– A Functional Medicine Approach to Healing from the Root
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