What is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)?

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a condition affecting hormone production[i]. The ovaries produce eggs (a process known as ovulation). In PCOS, the ovaries will typically present with multiple cysts forming over time. In many cases, this prevents ovulation and leads to missed periods or no periods at all. However, not all women with PCOS will present with cysts.

Causes for PCOS can be genetic or environmental[ii][iii]. Women with PCOS usually produce higher-than-normal amounts of male hormones. As well as having excess androgens (testosterone), insulin sensitivity and low levels of progesterone are also common drivers of PCOS symptoms[iv].

Testosterone is produced in the ovaries and adrenal glands, which means that stress (both physical and emotional) can also play a part in PCOS.

Many women have PCOS but don’t know it. Up to 70% of women with PCOS may be undiagnosed [v].

Common symptoms of PCOS are:

Irregular or missing periods

Painful periods

Excessive hair growth (especially on the face)

Weight gain

Painful cystic acne (especially around the jawline)

Acne: Male hormones can make the skin oilier than usual and cause breakouts in areas like the face, chest, and upper back.

Male pattern balding in the hairline.

Dark patches of skin can form in body creases like those on the neck[vi].

Common causes of PCOS

Genetics: PCOS runs in families[vii]

Insulin resistance[viii] (meaning that the cells can’t use insulin properly)

Being overweight [ix]

Increased levels of inflammation: studies have linked excess inflammation to higher androgen hormone levels [x]

Nutritional support for PCOS

Diet should be focused on healthy sources of protein and moderate portions of healthy fats and complex carbohydrates[xi]. Weight loss and reducing inflammation are often the focus for addressing symptoms of PCOS as obesity is a driver for the condition[xii]. This should be addressed by balancing blood sugars.

Our team of Nutritional Therapists can all help and offer one-to-one consultations. These can be done in person in our clinic, or remotely.

Supplement suggestions for PCOS

Try: Myo-Inositol and Folic acid (120g): Myo-Inositol is commonly used for PCOS in a nutrition consultation as it seems to reduce symptoms such as insulin resistance and weight gain[xiii]. Inositol appears to help reduce insulin sensitivity by improving the insulin receptors, therefore supporting the proper uptake of insulin to the cell. It also seems to reduce testosterone levels and improve ovulation. Myo-inositol combined with folic acid may improve insulin function even more[xiv].

O.N.E. Multivitamin (ONE Multi) (60 Caps): Nutrients which can be helpful in PCOS are vitamin B6 and vitamin B12, magnesium, zinc, calcium and vitamin D[xvii][xviii]. Also check out: Balance Multi Nutrient (60 caps) and Womankind Premenstrual: a combination of naturally balancing herbs and B vitamins such as Vitamin B6 to promote energy and support the nervous system as well as regulating hormonal activity, Vitamin B2 protecting cells from oxidative stress and helping to maintain normal skin and Shatavari a herb known in Ayurveda for its ability to nourish and regulate the reproductive system.

Life & Soul Omega 3 Fish Oil Liquid (150ml): Essential fatty acids such as a high-quality fish oil supplement are a useful consideration for controlling inflammation[xix].

Clear Skin Tincture (50ml): This tincture helps to keep skin clear and balance hormones such as high androgen levels seen in PCOS. The herb agnus castus can bring about hormonal balance and address some of the symptoms of PCOS naturally[xv].

DIM Ultra (60 Caps): DIM with phytonutrients, milk thistle and amino acids to support liver clearance of hormones and help restore balance[xvi].

The importance of nutritional therapy for PCOS

For hormonal conditions, we always recommend a Nutritional Consultation with one of our Nutrition Team. We will aim to find the root cause, taking into account your unique medical history and explore all the body systems to create a tailor-made plan.

Testing options for PCOS

DUTCH test: this dried urine test looks at your hormone levels and their metabolites. This would be the go-to for working out hormonal issues. It includes sex hormones, cortisol and DHEA which helps to evaluate stress levels felt throughout the day which may be contributing to your symptoms.

Female Hormone Cycle Mapping: This test can provide an insight over a full female cycle to assess oestrogen and progesterone fluctuations throughout the cycle. This ‘mapping’ test provides a clear insight into the cycle so any fluctuations from the normal pattern can be easily identified. This provides a useful tool in situations of hormonal imbalances, fertility issues and PCOS.