PCOS

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex and common hormonal condition that affects women of reproductive age. It can cause hormonal imbalances, cysts in the ovaries, and excess androgen levels. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and can change at different life stages, but often include:

Irregular or absent periods

Excessive hair on the face or body, including the chest, stomach, and back

Skin conditions such as acne and skin tags

Hair loss (alopecia)

Weight gain, especially around the belly

Reduced fertility and absent ovulation

PCOS can have multiple contributing factors. At Wisdom, our team is trained in the dynamic interplay between hormonal and digestive health which can provide clarity and relief from nagging symptoms of PCOS.

Here are some of the key ways that Wisdom practitioners take a unique approach to analyzing and supporting members struggling with PCOS:

✔ Root-Cause Based Care:

While some Wisdom members will be prescribed the common conventional interventions for PCOS, our practitioners typically lean into nutritional supplements, herbs, and dietary changes for the most effective results with PCOS. The conventional interventions, while often impactful, can have uncomfortable side effects and tend to only mask the symptoms temporarily. That is why Wisdom practitioners will use natural medicine first to address the root cause of PCOS symptoms.

✔ Hormonal Imbalance: 

PCOS is primarily characterized by hormonal imbalance, particularly elevated levels of androgens (male hormones) such as testosterone. This imbalance disrupts the normal function of the ovaries and leads to symptoms like irregular menstrual cycles and the formation of ovarian cysts. Thorough hormonal testing allows our providers to understand why testosterone levels are rising making it possible to create an action plan for relief.

✔ Insulin Resistance: 

Many women with PCOS also have insulin resistance, where their cells do not respond effectively to insulin. This results in higher insulin levels in the blood, which can stimulate the ovaries to produce more androgens. Using tools like continuous glucose monitors and specific supplement formulas designed for your body, help our providers uncover the cause of insulin dysregulation.

✔ Genetics: 

There is evidence to suggest that genetics may contribute to the development of PCOS. Women with PCOS are more likely to have a family history of the condition, suggesting a genetic predisposition. At Wisdom, we understand that hormonal issues often have a hereditary component but knowledge is power when it comes to changing how genes develop over time.

✔ Inflammation: 

Chronic low-grade inflammation may be involved in the development of PCOS and could contribute to insulin resistance and other metabolic abnormalities seen in the condition. Understanding what is behind this hidden inflammation is key to getting the most out of your Wisdom experience.

✔ Lifestyle Factors: 

Obesity and sedentary lifestyle are associated with an increased risk of PCOS and can exacerbate symptoms. Excess weight can worsen insulin resistance and hormonal imbalance. But we know, weight isn’t everything and appropriate support is needed to unlock the patterns of PCOS.