What is PCOS?

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder affecting millions of women worldwide. But what is PCOS really and how does it impact your health? If you've recently been diagnosed with PCOS or suspect you might have it, understanding how it impacts your health, fertility, pregnancy, and long-term life goals is important. PCOS is not just a reproductive disorder—it has wide-ranging implications that require a comprehensive, integrative approach to manage it effectively.

PCOS and Fertility: What You Need to Know

PCOS is one of the leading causes of infertility in women, primarily due to its effects on ovulation. Women with PCOS often have irregular menstrual cycles, which means they may not ovulate regularly, making it more difficult to conceive. Elevated levels of androgens (male hormones) and insulin resistance further complicate fertility, contributing to issues like anovulation (lack of ovulation) and poor egg quality.

The Role of Myo-Inositol: A Well-Researched Supplement

Myo-inositol is one of the best-researched supplements for managing PCOS, particularly for improving fertility. Research shows that myo-inositol can help regulate menstrual cycles, improve ovulation, and lower androgen levels, which are often elevated in women with PCOS. A study published in Gynecological Endocrinology highlighted that myo-inositol supplementation significantly improved insulin sensitivity (as measured by HOMA-IR) and reduced androgen levels, leading to better menstrual regularity and a reduction in symptoms like hirsutism (excessive hair growth) .

The latest research on inositol also explores its effectiveness in unique populations, such as adolescents with PCOS, and investigates combinations with other treatments, like Metformin as well as IVF medications, that may offer additional benefits. This evolving understanding underscores the importance of personalized treatment plans, especially when trying to conceive.

Now, before you go adding myo-inositol to your cart, please note that the dose, type and duration of treatment has a severe impact on its efficacy which is why working with a trained naturopathic doctor board certified in naturopathic endocrinology (like the doctors at NMD Wellness of Scottsdale) can be an important addition to your healthcare team.

PCOS and Pregnancy: Understanding the Risks

If you have PCOS and are planning to become pregnant, it's important to be aware of the associated risks. Women with PCOS are at a higher risk for several pregnancy-related complications:

Gestational Diabetes: Women with PCOS are three times more likely to develop gestational diabetes, a condition that can affect both mother and baby during pregnancy and may increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.
Hypertension and Preeclampsia: PCOS increases the risk of hypertensive disorders in pregnancy, including a 3.5 times higher likelihood of developing preeclampsia, a serious condition characterized by high blood pressure and damage to other organs.
Preterm Birth and Neonatal Complications: The chances of preterm birth are 1.75 times higher in women with PCOS. Additionally, babies born to mothers with PCOS are twice as likely to be admitted to the NICU and three times more likely to experience neonatal loss.

These statistics highlight the critical need for an integrative, whole-body approach to managing PCOS, especially during pregnancy. Working with a healthcare provider who understands the complexities of PCOS and its impact on fertility and pregnancy is essential for ensuring the best possible outcomes for both mother and baby.

Long-Term Health Implications of PCOS

PCOS is not just a reproductive disorder; it has long-term health implications that extend well beyond fertility and pregnancy. Women with PCOS are at increased risk for several chronic conditions, including:

Type 2 Diabetes: Due to insulin resistance, women with PCOS are at a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes, particularly as they age.
Cardiovascular Disease: The risk of developing cardiovascular issues, including hypertension and heart disease, is elevated in women with PCOS.
Mental Health: Anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues are more common in women with PCOS, often exacerbated by the physical symptoms of the disorder.

Why You Need a Trained Specialist

Given the complex nature of PCOS, it's crucial to work with a healthcare provider who is trained in integrative medicine and endocrinology, like the doctors at NMD Wellness of Scottsdale. These specialists are equipped to create personalized treatment plans that address the underlying causes of PCOS and its wide-ranging effects on your health.

They can guide you in the safe and effective use of supplements like myo-inositol, ensuring that the correct type, dosage, and combination of therapies are used to achieve the best outcomes. This professional oversight is essential—simply taking a supplement over the counter because it's "natural" can lead to ineffective or even harmful results if not properly managed.

An Integrative Approach: Your Best Path Forward

Managing PCOS requires a comprehensive, integrative approach that addresses the whole body. This includes lifestyle changes, dietary adjustments, targeted supplementation, and, when necessary, medical interventions. The team at NMD Wellness of Scottsdale is dedicated to helping you navigate this journey, providing the expertise and support you need to manage PCOS effectively, optimize your fertility, and protect your long-term health.

If you suspect you have PCOS or have recently been diagnosed, reach out to a trained naturopathic doctor specializing in endocrinology. With the right care, you too can take control of your health and improve your health outcomes.

Naturopathic Endocrinology - NMD Wellness of Scottsdale

References:

Unfer V, et al. Effects of myo-inositol on insulin resistance and hyperandrogenism in polycystic ovary syndrome: a systematic review. Gynecol Endocrinol. 2017;33(9):668-674.
Boomsma CM, Eijkemans MJ, Hughes EG, Visser GH, Fauser BC, Macklon NS. A meta-analysis of pregnancy outcomes in women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Hum Reprod Update. 2006 Nov-Dec;12(6):673-83. doi: 10.1093/humupd/dml036. Epub 2006 Aug 4. PMID: 16891296.