Naturopathic PCOS Treatment — A Root-Cause Approach to Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) affects approximately 1 in 10 women of reproductive age, making it one of the most common hormonal disorders. Despite its prevalence, PCOS is frequently underdiagnosed and undertreated because it presents differently in every patient. PCOS is not simply a reproductive issue — it's a metabolic and hormonal condition that can affect nearly every system in the body. The Rotterdam criteria require two of three features for diagnosis: irregular or absent periods, clinical or biochemical signs of excess androgens, and polycystic ovaries on ultrasound. However, naturopathic medicine recognizes four distinct PCOS types: • Insulin-resistant PCOS — The most common type (~70% of cases). Elevated insulin drives the ovaries to produce excess testosterone. • Inflammatory PCOS — Chronic low-grade inflammation triggers hormonal imbalance, often presenting with fatigue, joint pain, and skin issues. • Adrenal PCOS — Elevated DHEA-S from adrenal gland overactivation, often stress-driven. • Post-pill PCOS — Temporary hormonal disruption after discontinuing oral contraceptives, typically resolving within 3-6 months with support.

Standard conventional treatment for PCOS typically involves: • Birth control pills to regulate periods and suppress androgens • Metformin for insulin resistance • Spironolactone for acne and hair growth While these medications can manage symptoms, they don't address the underlying metabolic and inflammatory drivers of PCOS. When medication is stopped, symptoms often return because the root causes haven't been treated. Naturopathic medicine takes a different approach: identify WHICH type of PCOS is present, determine the specific metabolic and hormonal drivers, and create a personalized treatment plan that addresses those root causes. This doesn't mean rejecting conventional medication — rather, it means combining pharmaceutical tools with nutrition, botanical medicine, and lifestyle changes for more comprehensive, lasting results.

Evidence-based naturopathic PCOS treatment targets the specific root causes identified through comprehensive testing: • Insulin Management — Low-glycemic nutrition, inositol (myo-inositol and D-chiro-inositol in a 40:1 ratio), and berberine have been shown in clinical trials to improve insulin sensitivity comparable to metformin, with fewer side effects. • Anti-Inflammatory Nutrition — An anti-inflammatory diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, colorful vegetables, and whole grains while reducing processed foods, refined sugars, and inflammatory oils. Turmeric (curcumin) supplementation can reduce inflammatory markers. • Hormonal Balancing Botanicals — Saw palmetto and spearmint tea have anti-androgenic properties that can reduce excess testosterone. Vitex (chaste tree berry) supports progesterone production and menstrual regularity. • Stress and Adrenal Support — Adaptogenic herbs (ashwagandha, rhodiola) and stress management techniques for adrenal PCOS. Cortisol regulation is essential for hormonal balance. • Gut Health Optimization — Emerging research links the gut microbiome to PCOS. Improving gut health can enhance estrogen metabolism, reduce inflammation, and improve insulin sensitivity. • Targeted Nutraceuticals — Vitamin D (commonly deficient in PCOS), magnesium, zinc, NAC (N-acetylcysteine), and omega-3 fatty acids to address specific metabolic imbalances.

Dr. Sanika Kshirsagar at Soma Naturopathic in Kirkland, WA (12911 120th Ave NE, Suite J-3) provides specialized naturopathic PCOS treatment. Her approach includes: • Comprehensive hormone panel (testosterone, DHEA-S, SHBG, progesterone, estrogen, LH, FSH) to identify your specific PCOS type • Fasting insulin and glucose tolerance testing to assess insulin resistance • Inflammatory markers (hs-CRP, homocysteine) to evaluate systemic inflammation • Nutrient status testing (vitamin D, zinc, magnesium, iron, B vitamins) • Personalized nutrition plan targeting your specific PCOS drivers • Custom botanical and nutraceutical protocols • Integration with Ayurvedic approaches for hormonal balance Dr. Sanika serves patients from Kirkland, Bellevue, Redmond, Bothell, Woodinville, Kenmore, Sammamish, and Issaquah. Telehealth appointments are available for Washington and California residents. New patients can start with a free 15-minute intro call.

PCOS is a lifelong condition, but it can be managed effectively with the right approach. Long-term naturopathic management focuses on: • Maintaining insulin sensitivity through consistent nutrition and movement habits • Regular monitoring of hormonal and metabolic markers (every 3-6 months initially, then annually) • Adjusting botanical and nutraceutical protocols as the body responds • Fertility support when ready to conceive — many women with PCOS achieve healthy pregnancies with proper management • Metabolic health protection — addressing PCOS root causes also reduces long-term risk of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and metabolic syndrome With comprehensive naturopathic care, most women with PCOS can achieve regular menstrual cycles, healthy androgen levels, clearer skin, and improved energy within 3-6 months of consistent treatment.