What Is PCOS?

PCOS is best defined as high levels of androgens (male hormones) in the body, which can lead to rather unpleasant symptoms such as:

• Weight gain
• Oily skin and/or acne
• Irregular or absent periods
• Hair loss or thinning hair on the head
• Unwanted body hair growth
• Difficulty falling pregnant

It doesn’t actually have a whole lot to do with cysts on the ovaries. PCOS has roots in metabolic health, inflammation, and adrenal function. The good news? PCOS can be reversed and healed with the right lifestyle, diet, and support.

What About the Cysts on My Ovaries?!

Despite the name, these ‘cysts’ are actually an increased number of follicles, which may also occur in women without PCOS. PCOS cannot be diagnosed by ultrasound alone—if it has, please get a second opinion.

Types of PCOS

1. Insulin-Resistant PCOS

This is the most common type. Caused by sugar, smoking, pollution, and trans fats. Symptoms include being overweight, high insulin levels, or borderline diabetes. What to do: Cut out sugar, try inositol supplements, and give it 6–9 months for improvement.

2. Pill-Induced PCOS

Caused by birth control pills that suppress ovulation. Most women resume ovulating afterward, but some don’t. Clue: You had normal periods before taking the pill, and now you don't. LH levels might be elevated.

3. Inflammatory PCOS

Inflammation prevents ovulation and increases androgens. Caused by stress, toxins, gluten, etc. Symptoms: Headaches, infections, allergies, low vitamin D. What to do: Avoid inflammatory foods (sugar, dairy, wheat), reduce stress, take magnesium.

4. Hidden PCOS

Triggered by thyroid issues, iodine/zinc deficiency, vegetarian diet, or artificial sweeteners. What to do: Address the root cause. Recovery takes 3–4 months.

Diagnosing PCOS

• Pelvic exam
• Blood tests to measure hormones, glucose tolerance, cholesterol, etc.
• Ultrasound (not enough on its own!)
• Mean platelet volume (MPV)
• Checks for depression, anxiety, sleep apnea

Important: Ultrasound alone is not sufficient for PCOS diagnosis. Always seek a specialist’s opinion before starting medications.

Treatment for PCOS

• Maintain a healthy weight
• Limit carbohydrates and sugar
• Stay active
• Regulate menstrual cycle with contraceptives (as prescribed)
• Stimulate ovulation with medications (under supervision)
• Manage excess hair with anti-androgens or topical creams

Who Should I Be Talking To?

Speak with a gynecologist or an endocrinologist for accurate diagnosis and treatment. Don’t settle for a one-size-fits-all solution.

Questions to Ask Your Doctor:

• What tests do you recommend?
• How does PCOS affect my fertility?
• What medications do I need?
• Can I see a dietitian?
• What are the side effects of my meds?
• Is this a definite diagnosis?
• What lifestyle changes should I start?