Understanding PCOS: A Naturopathic Perspective
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common hormonal conditions I see in clinic, yet it’s often misunderstood, misdiagnosed, or managed in a way that doesn’t address the root cause. If you’ve been struggling with irregular periods, acne, weight gain, or mood changes, this may give you some clarity—and most importantly, hope.
What is PCOS?
PCOS is a hormonal and metabolic condition that affects how the ovaries function. Despite the name, it’s not just about “cysts” on the ovaries. It’s a whole-body condition that involves hormone imbalance, blood sugar dysregulation, and often inflammation.
In PCOS, we commonly see:
Elevated androgens (male hormones like testosterone)
Irregular or absent ovulation
Changes in insulin sensitivity (how your body handles blood sugar)
This combination can lead to symptoms such as:
Irregular or missing periods
Acne (especially along the jawline)
Excess facial or body hair
Thinning hair on the scalp
Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
Fatigue and cravings
How is PCOS Diagnosed?
Diagnosis typically follows the Rotterdam Criteria, where two out of three of the following are present:
Irregular or absent ovulation
Signs of elevated androgens (blood tests or symptoms like acne/hair growth)
Polycystic ovaries seen on ultrasound
From a naturopathic perspective, I always like to go deeper than just a diagnosis. Functional testing can help us understand why PCOS is happening in your body and what is driving and worsening your symptoms.
I often use blood tests looking at:
Hormone blood tests (testosterone, SHBG, LH, FSH)
Fasting insulin and glucose
HbA1c (longer-term blood sugar marker)
Thyroid function
Inflammatory markers
Nutrient levels (iron, B12, vitamin D, zinc)
Because no two cases of PCOS are the same, your treatment should never be one-size-fits-all. My PCOS testing and treatment package covers all of this for you.
The Importance of Blood Sugar Regulation
If there’s one key driver of PCOS that I focus on most in clinic, it’s blood sugar balance.
Many women with PCOS have some level of insulin resistance—even if their blood sugar appears “normal” on standard tests.
When insulin is elevated:
It stimulates the ovaries to produce more androgens
It disrupts ovulation
It increases fat storage, especially around the abdomen
It drives cravings and energy crashes
This creates a cycle that keeps symptoms going.
Supporting blood sugar regulation can:
Improve cycle regularity
Reduce acne and androgen symptoms
Support weight balance
Improve energy and mood
Naturopathic Treatment for PCOS
My approach to PCOS is always holistic and tailored to the individual. We’re not just managing symptoms—we’re addressing the underlying drivers.
1. Nutrition for Hormone Balance
Food is foundational.
I focus on:
Protein-rich meals (especially breakfast)
Fibre to support gut and hormone detoxification
Healthy fats for hormone production
Low glycaemic, whole-food carbohydrates
Simple changes like pairing carbs with protein, eating regularly, and avoiding blood sugar spikes can make a huge difference.
2. Herbal Medicine
Herbal support can be incredibly effective in PCOS, depending on your presentation. I use herbs that help with cycle regulation, promote ovulation, balance blood sugar, reduce androgens and balance oestrogen and progesterone.
3. Nutritional Supplementation
Targeted nutrients can support metabolic and hormonal pathways, my favourites for PCOS are:
Inositol (for insulin sensitivity and ovulation)
Magnesium (for stress and blood sugar regulation)
Zinc (for skin and hormone balance)
Omega-3 fatty acids (for inflammation)
Vitamin D (often low in PCOS)
4. Gut and Liver Support
Your gut and liver play a major role in hormone metabolism.
Supporting these systems can:
Improve oestrogen clearance
Reduce inflammation
Support skin health
Improve gut function
5. Stress and Nervous System Support
Chronic stress increases cortisol, which can worsen insulin resistance and hormonal imbalance by increasing androgens.
This is where lifestyle strategies come in:
Gentle movement (walking, strength training, yoga)
Nervous system regulation
Adequate sleep and ways to achieve this
A Note on Weight and PCOS
Weight gain can be a symptom of PCOS—not the cause.
Focusing purely on weight loss often misses the bigger picture. When we support hormones and metabolism properly, weight tends to regulate naturally. Plus crash dieting will only make your hormone imbalance worse.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can PCOS be cured?
PCOS is considered a long-term condition, but symptoms can absolutely be managed—and significantly improved—with the right support.
Do I need to cut out carbs?
No. Carbohydrates are not the enemy. The key is choosing the right types and balancing them with protein and fats to stabilise blood sugar.
Is the pill the only treatment option?
No. The oral contraceptive pill can help symptoms (by shutting off your hormones), but it doesn’t address the root cause and your symptoms will be there (or worse) when you come off the pill. The side effects of the pill are also to be considered.
Can I still get pregnant with PCOS?
Yes. Many women with PCOS conceive successfully, especially when ovulation is supported and underlying imbalances are addressed.
How long does it take to see improvements?
This varies, but many women notice changes in energy, cravings, and cycles within 8–12 weeks of consistent support.
What’s the first step I should take?
Start with your foundations:
Eat balanced meals
Prioritise protein
Support blood sugar stability (sign up to my mailing list for a free ebook on tips to balance blood sugar).
From there, working with me allows for a personalised plan based on your body and individual health. Book your 1:1 with me
Ready to commit? check out my PCOS package
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or stuck with your symptoms, you don’t have to figure it out alone. PCOS is complex—but with the right approach, your body can come back into balance and you can live symptom free.