Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder affecting 4-8% of women of reproductive age. PCOS does not have a definitive cause at this time in medical literature however in alternative medicine the disorder is approached differently.  Patients  with PCO S have a steady state of relatively high estrogen, androgen, and LH levels rather than the fluctuating condition seen in ovulating women. PCOS patients can exhibit an abnormal growth of hair on the face or body, obesity, and virilization. Fifty percent of patients do not have a menstrual cycle and thirty percent may have abnormal menses. Additionally, many show insulin resistance so they may exhibit early signs of type II diabetes mellitus. Some of the patients have problems with fertility although they may ovulate occasionally.  PCOS patients have an increased risk of breast and endometrium cancer due to the unopposed estrogen secretion.

If you or someone you know has been given a diagnosis of PCOS realize many treatments exist for polycystic ovary disease. Every PCOS patient is not the same so the treatments vary depending on the symptoms the person expresses. In traditional American medicine, if the patient desires to become pregnant clomiphene or other drugs can be prescribed for ovulatory stimulation.  Other patients are prescribed metformin to help regulate blood sugar. Other patients have been given oral conception pills to help control hirsutism (hair distribution over the lips, chin etc.) Other patients have tried epilation and electrolysis to control hair growth.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome can be diagnosed with medical history intake from a physician and a combination of laboratory test. A physician may order a glucose tolerance test to check to see if you have any blood sugar issues. A hormonal panel may be ordered as well to look at your hormones. A transvaginal ultrasound or pelvic laparoscopy may be done to look at the ovaries for cysts.

At Global Integrative Medicine for PCOS is treated more with an emphasis on natural treatments for the symptoms and cause of PCOS. We use herbal combinations specific to the patient symptoms. All PCOS patients aren’t given the same formula, because every patient isn’t identical. The medical director spends an hour with each patient to gather detailed information on that patient. Depending on the information provided by the patient and whether or not the patient desires to become pregnant a unique herbal compound is developed for the patient to assist with balancing the hormones in the person’s body thereby decrease the risk of developing cancer.  If the patient has elevated blood sugar it can be treated as well with herbal formulations and a few lifestyle modifications like diet changes and exercise.

Wishing you lots of health and happiness!

Dr. Matesa Pringle is a naturopathic physician who practices in Mesa, Arizona. She practices alternative medicine as well as traditional medicine and serves the East Valley cities of Gilbert, Chandler, Scottsdale, Tempe, Apache Junction, Queen Creek, Phoenix, and even has some patients who travel from West Valley!

Disclaimer: The information on this site regarding medical conditions is presented for general informational purposes only. It should not be considered exhaustive and doesn’t contain all available treatments. The information here should not be used as a substitute for the advice provided by your own physician. Global Integrative Medicine, PLLC or Dr. M. Pringle assumes no liability for anyone using information on this site but is not under the care of a medical professional. By using this site you agree not to rely solely on any of the information contained herein for medical treatment. It is strongly encouraged you see a licensed physician, like Dr. M. Pringle or a physician of your choosing and adhere to that protocol first and foremost.