Naturopathy & PCOS
One of my favourite aspects of naturopathy is that it is such a versatile modality of healing that can assist with such a wide range of presenting complaints that people may experience. Naturopaths are able to do this through treating the whole person, rather than treating health complaints and body systems as separate variables. Everything in our body is linked, and our bodies work like these amazing, well-oiled machines when everything is in balance. Naturopathy is a wonderful modality that assists in getting our whole health back into balance, to help us feel our best in day to day life.
PCOS is one of these conditions that can be managed well with naturopathic care. PCOS is primarily a metabolic and endocrine condition and can often be associated with irregular or absence of ovulation, metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance and carrying excess weight. High stress (and therefore increased cortisol) is also linked with PCOS. Some features that may occur with PCOS include acne, hirsutism (excessive hair growth), increased androgens (particularly testosterone), irregular or absent menstrual cycles, and infertility. PCOS may also occur after ceasing use of the oral contraceptive pill.
If you think you might have PCOS, the first step is to see your doctor to discuss your concerns and so that they can run some blood tests to get more information. You may also be referred for an ultrasound. Charting your basal body temperature (BBT) first thing each morning can also be helpful to ascertain whether ovulation is occurring. Ovulation on a BBT chart will be indicated by a surge in the temperature readings following ovulation.
So how does naturopathy assist with the management of PCOS? As always with naturopathy, we consider what is happening for the whole person. We consider a number of aspects including menstrual hormone regulation, insulin resistance, liver function, addressing nervous system and adrenal function, and weight management if applicable. The above are addressed with a combination of specific herbal medicines such as licorice and peony, targeted nutritional supplements including chromium and magnesium, as well as dietary and lifestyle modification. The consumption of spearmint tea may also be beneficial. All of these factors assist with working towards the desired outcomes when managing conditions such as PCOS with naturopathy.
About Magnolia Naturopathy
Magnolia Naturopathy is owned and operated by Brisbane naturopath and herbalist Iwa Brown. At Magnolia Naturopathy, we offer online telehealth naturopathy consultations to assist our clients all over Australia to reach their health goals. Contact us here to find out more, or book your online telehealth naturopathy appointment here.
