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Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a complex endocrine and metabolic condition that affects many women worldwide between the ages of 15 to 44. PCOS is a hormonal disorder that causes an imbalance in the female reproductive hormones, leading to a variety of symptoms, including:

  • Irregular menstrual cycles – missed periods or experiencing fewer periods than 8 a year or periods that come every 21 days
  • Acne on the face, chest and upper back
  • Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
  • Excess hair growth (Hirsutism) – on the face, chin and other parts of the body where men usually have hair.
  • Thinning hair or hair loss on the scalp (male-pattern baldness)
  • Infertility and reduced ovulation rates
  • Skin tags – typically on the neck and armpits
  • Darkening of skin – along neck creases, underneath breasts on in the groin
  • Low mood and anxiety
  • Gut issues like food sensitivities and constipation

 

There is no single test to diagnose PCOS, therefore we must rely on the presence of these common symptoms.

To help diagnose PCOS and rule out other causes of your symptoms schedule an appointment with a Forum Health provider today!

Could I have PCOS?

Take this free symptoms quiz to determine whether you could have PCOS.

If you are one of the 5 million women with PCOS, you know how frustrating and painful the symptoms are and how limited the treatments can be with standard healthcare.

While there is no cure for PCOS, Forum Health functional and integrative medicine providers address the root cause of your dysregulation so that you can better manage your symptoms and find relief.

Forum Health's Treatment Approach:

  1. Diet and Exercise: One of the most effective ways to manage PCOS is through a healthy diet and consistent exercise. Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help reduce insulin resistance and regulate hormones. Exercise, on the other hand, helps reduce body fat and improve insulin sensitivity, which can lead to better control of PCOS symptoms.

  2. Supplements: Certain supplements have been found to be effective in managing PCOS symptoms. Our providers guide patients to supplements that help with insulin resistance, excess hair growth and acne.

  3. Stress Management: Stress can exacerbate PCOS symptoms, so it is important to manage stress levels. Techniques such as meditation, yoga, and deep breathing exercises can help reduce stress and improve overall wellbeing.

  4. Gut Health: Poor gut health can impair your mental health, your immune system, and your heart. Our microbiome contains bacteria that metabolize estrogen, which is especially important for managing PCOS.

Watch the video below to hear Kate’s personal story

To help diagnose PCOS and rule out other causes of your symptoms schedule an appointment with a Forum Health provider today!

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