Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome Management
Our approach to polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) management is unique because it is both comprehensive and proactive.
Our board-certified physicians and nurse practitioners, who have a strong foundation in traditional medicine, incorporate complementary medicine and lifestyle medicine into your care plan.
So, we will begin by confirming your diagnosis of PCOS, checking for other hormonal imbalances, and uncovering any additional issues that may be fueling your symptoms.
Rather than merely treating your symptoms, we will work to uncover and address the underlying root causes in a holistic way.
Medication management alone and other limited approaches are less effective because optimal treatment usually requires a significant change in lifestyle.
"Studies have shown that the body has an innate ability to heal itself. How we choose to stress, eat, move, and sleep has a profound impact on our health—for good or for ill—depending on what type of choices we are consistently making."
~ Dr. Susan Hart-Cavallo, Director of Integrative Holistic Medicine
This is why an essential part of our healing philosophy and care pathway involves empowering you through multiple opportunities for education in the areas of lifestyle medicine.
This unique approach, our years of experience, and the way we give our patients a voice in their own care allows you the potential to achieve better outcomes than traditional medicine alone.
Problems Often Associated with PCOS
PCOS is one of the most common hormonal disorders in women.
Approximately 70% of women with PCOS experience fertility challenges. Approximately 50% of women struggle with their weight. It can also be associated with:
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Unexplained fatigue
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Acne
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Unwanted facial and body hair
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Multiple small ovarian cysts
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Abnormal menstrual periods
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Belly fat/weight gain, especially through the middle
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Type 2 diabetes
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High blood pressure
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Anxiety
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Depression
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Several types of cancer
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Fatty liver
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Sleep apnea
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Heart disease
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High blood pressure in pregnancy
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Diabetes during pregnancy
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Delivering a large or small baby
We believe that PCOS runs along a continuum. Women at the early end of the continuum may have only one or two of the above features. However, if the underlying condition is not addressed, additional problems develop over time.
What to Expect
Our initial goal is to confirm the diagnosis of PCOS and check for other hormonal imbalances.
Step One: Establish Care
To begin, you will have a New Patient Visit with one of our board-certified medical providers.
At this intake visit, your provider will discuss your concerns and take a thorough history. Labs and tests will likely be ordered at the end of this initial evaluation, including an ultrasound to evaluate your uterus and ovaries.
Step Two: Make a Plan
Through a series of follow-up appointments with our PCOS care team, we will thoroughly review your labs and test results, answer your questions, provide education, and empower you to choose the treatment option that is right for you.
Together, we decide on a plan that works best for you.
Recommendations may include taking appropriate supplements and/or medications.
You will start on a path that integrates the expertise of our multi-disciplinary team of professionals, combining medical treatment with evidenced-based practices known to impact PCOS at its root causes—lifestyle practices such as improving nutrition and addressing the stress that we all experience.
Step Three: Implement the Plan
We create individualized treatment plans that undergo continuous adaptation to your medical needs and goals.
Most patients will follow-up with a provider every 3-4 months for the first year of care in order to:
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check up on the original diagnosis (or diagnoses)
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assess progress
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review new symptoms
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redraw labs if necessary
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re-direct you toward an adjusted treatment plan
Multi-Disciplinary PCOS Care Team
We have assembled a care team to support you at every phase of your care.
Call (574) 273- 3880 to learn more or schedule a New Patient Visit today!