PCOS
5-10% of people who menstruate and are of reproductive age have PCOS, which can be diagnosed at any time during their reproductive years. Contrary to what the name suggests, ovarian cysts or enlarged ovaries are not always required for a PCOS diagnosis. PCOS is a syndrome, which means it consists of a group of symptoms and signs that define the condition.
Symptoms associated with PCOS
obesity
long menstrual cycles
acne
oily skin
polycystic or enlarge ovaries
hirsutism (thickened and coarse hair)
glucose intolerance
acanthosis nigricans (darkened skin, typically in the neck, groin, arm pit)
anxiety, depression
sleep apnea, or other sleep disorders
the role of naturopathic doctors
The treatment of PCOS, relies on lifestyle recommendations to address insulin resistance, weight management, and menstrual irregularities. Holistic management is crucial, and while lifestyle and nutraceutical treatment can be an important part, if pharmaceutical intervention is required, naturopathic medicine can be used alongside it to work on addressing the possible causes of PCOS.
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PMS/PMDD
those living with PMS can often feel unheard, and receive varying degrees of support depending on the practitioner they see. integrative practitioners have a unique position in discovering proper diagnosis, providing education on lifestyle management, supplements, and dietary recommendations to ease and reduce symptoms of PMS.
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endometriosis
endometriosis can often go undiagnosed for an average of 7 years. naturopathic doctors are in a position to help reduce diagnostic delay so treatment can begin earlier. in turn, this will improve pain to reduce both acute and chronic pain. through a holistic approach ND’s also address comorbidities that can worsen pelvic pain, such as IBS.
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PCOS
accurate assessment and diagnosis, especially on different types of reflux is important in the management of symptoms and tissue healing. there is opportunity to support you with natural therapies, lifestyle recommendations, and optimization of PPI usage and its appropriateness for diagnosis, including when to stop using it.
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heavy menstrual bleeding
defined as greater than 80 mL of blood lost in one menstrual cycle, causes can include structural, hormonal, or hematological. naturopathic doctors have time to do thorough investigation to understand the cause and treat accordingly. both acute management and long term strategies are valuable in the overall treatment.
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urinary tract health
from urinary tract infections, overactive bladder, night time incontinence, or painful bladder syndrome. the correct diagnosis and assessment of these conditions is challenging. what’s the deal with cranberry supplementation or d-mannose? what about behavioural recommendations?
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gestational diabetes (GDM)
a comprehensive integrative approach to managing gestational diabetes is important in supporting the health of parent and baby. the treatment of GDM happens both before and after pregnancy, and a holistic approach through diagnosis, monitoring, and follow-up care is important.
