Understanding Your PCOS Diagnosis

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a common condition that impacts millions of American women of reproductive age. PCOS is a hormone disorder and imbalance that causes a range of symptoms and health complications. With PCOS, the ovaries produce an abnormal amount of androgens, male sex hormones that are present in women in small amounts. The excess androgens disrupt ovulation, specifically the growth and release of eggs. PCOS treatment may include the use of bioidentical hormones, especially if initial strategies fail to improve the condition.

Symptoms you can’t ignore

The name stems from the fluid-filled follicles that form on the ovaries as a result, leading to fertility challenges. These follicles are common in PCOS individuals and are visible on an ultrasound. Women with PCOS experience irregular or heavy periods and difficulty getting pregnant. Many have androgen-related symptoms, as these hormones act like testosterone in men. Common examples include hirsutism, severe acne, and hair loss. Some women struggle with weight gain, skin tags, skin darkening, and sleep disturbances. Over time, PCOS can lead to insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, elevated blood pressure, and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

Treatment options for PCOS

If doctors detect PCOS early, the traditional treatment options include managing or reversing symptoms. Lifestyle changes, such as diet changes and regular exercise, can help optimize hormones and improve hormone sensitivity. Metformin, an insulin-sensitizing drug, can help with insulin resistance in severe cases. Perhaps the most effective treatment involved hormone replacement therapy (HRT), which supplements or replaces the impacted hormones. HRT can be used for various hormonal imbalances, with the medical team customizing treatment for each patient. Doctors can prescribe medication such as birth control pills to regulate menstrual cycles and reduce excess androgen. Some patients can benefit from progestin, which helps regulate hormones without adding estrogen. Increasing or optimizing these hormones helps to regulate androgens, hence improving PCOS symptoms.

The rise of bioidentical hormones

HRT is seen as the go-to solution for PCOS, but there has been a recent rise in the use of bioidentical hormones. These are man-made hormones chemically identical to those produced by the human body. Most bioidentical hormones come from plant sources and are designed to match the molecular structure of natural hormones. Doctors can request bioidentical hormones in various forms, including pills, patches, creams, gels, and injections. Common examples of hormones that can be bioidentical include progesterone, testosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), and estradiol.

HRT vs. bioidentical hormones

Why should PCOS patients choose bioidentical hormones? Conventional HRT often uses synthetic hormones that are similar, but not identical, to human hormones. Patients may prefer a more natural approach as there may be fewer side effects or adverse reactions. HRT comes in standard doses, but bioidentical hormones can be customized. Using compounding, pharmacists can create formulations that are closer to the needs of the patient. Compounding pharmacists can fine-tune the solution, dramatically improving PCOS symptoms over time. While customizable and natural, all bioidentical hormones are not regulated for safety and efficacy. Patients also need regular testing to adjust doses accordingly. Weigh the risks and benefits, then speak with a compounding team with a strong track record of bioidentical hormone therapy.

Do bioidentical hormones make a difference?

Bioidentical hormones can provide similar results in the right doses as conventional HRT. The treatment increases or optimizes essential hormones, bringing balance to the body. HRT is especially useful for women struggling with infertility as a result of PCOS. Bioidentical hormones are appealing due to customization and the natural approach to treatment, which the modern patient may prefer. The decision to use bioidentical hormones must be made in consultation with specialists in hormone health and compounding. The medical team can assess the patient and the severity of the condition and then provide the best course of action for PCOS.