POLYCYSTIC OVARIAN SYNDROME

Naturopath for PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome)

PCOS is an endocrine disorder associated with hormonal and cardiometabolic complications. It has become highly prevalent in Western countries, in Australia affecting up to 26% of women. While half of all PCOS patients present with insulin resistance and obesity, all patients share a primary defect in androgen production. The majority of PCOS patients tend to remain undiagnosed until later in life, with treatment only sought when reduced fertility is experienced. Working with a PCOS Naturopath can help address the wide-ranging consequences of PCOS, which extend far beyond elevated androgen levels, hirsutism, male pattern baldness and hair thinning, acne, infertility and growth of cysts. It has also been linked with conditions such as metabolic syndrome and certain cardiovascular risk factors including obesity, elevated blood pressure and dyslipidaemia. Unfortunately, insulin resistance can cause low-grade inflammation and increase cortisol levels. This can contribute to an overactive stress response and the symptoms of anxiety and depression, which are often increased in patients with PCOS.

Major causes and risk factors

Risk factors that contribute to the incidence of PCOS include:

Insulin resistance
Obesity
Family history of PCOS
Stress
Nutritional deficiencies
Diet high in processed foods (high glycaemic load)
Sedentary lifestyle

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal condition affecting many women. As an experienced Adelaide PCOS naturopath, Merridy takes a holistic approach to supporting hormone balance and addressing the underlying causes of PCOS. For those looking for a naturopath for PCOS, treatment focuses on improving symptoms through targeted nutrition, lifestyle changes, and natural therapies.

Common signs and symptoms of PCOS

Enlarged ovaries, resulting from multiple cysts
Irregular menstrual cycles (eg. amenorrhoea)
Hirsuitism (especially facial hair)
Central obesity – ‘apple-shaped’ obesity centred around the lower half of the torso
Infertility, resulting from a lack of ovulation
Elevated androgens, specifically testosterone and DHEA, causing hirsuitism
Androgenic alopecia (male-pattern baldness)
Jaw-line acne, oily skin, seborrhoea
Prolonged periods of PMS-like symptoms
Sleep apnoea
Chronic pelvic pain
Blood sugar dysregulation – eg. hypoglycaemic episodes, diabetes
Hypothyroidism

PCOS and endometriosis are often linked to broader hormonal imbalances and inflammation within the body. As an Adelaide PCOS and endometriosis naturopath, Merridy works to identify root causes and provide personalised support. This includes natural treatment strategies designed to regulate hormones, support the reproductive system, and improve overall wellbeing.

Naturopath for PCOS treatment

A PCOS Naturopath may recommend the following:

A balanced anti-inflammatory diet aimed at improving insulin sensitivity.
Avoid refined and processed carbohydrates, including sugar, sweets, fruit juices, soft drinks, bread, pasta, biscuits, cereals, etc.
Avoid smoking.
Regular exercise including cardio and weight bearing to promote glucose transport into the cells and increase insulin sensitivity.

Working with a PCOS Naturopath to find the right anti-inflammatory diet, herbs that support clearance of excess testosterone and nutrients to support deficiencies can optimise the health of a woman with PCOS. This improves the fertility and ability to fall pregnant.

Get in touch

If you are searching for a naturopath for PCOS in Adelaide, Merridy provides personalised care focused on long-term hormone health. Through a combination of nutrition, herbal medicine and lifestyle support, treatment plans are designed to restore balance and support lasting results.