Have you been dealing with erratic periods… sometimes missing periods altogether, sometimes experiencing prolonged periods?
Maybe you have noticed mood changes, pelvic pain, or unexplained weight gain?
Perhaps you’ve experienced acne, hair loss, or unusual hair growth on your face, chest, or back?
Well, you’re not alone… in fact, approximately 5 million women of child-bearing age suffer from PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome) and are either not getting the correct treatment or haven’t been diagnosed.
PCOS is a condition characterized by hormonal imbalances and metabolism problems that affect women’s overall health and appearance... and is a common and treatable cause of infertility.
The hormonal imbalances seen in PCOS alter the healthy menstrual cycle, where the egg may not develop as it should or it may not be released during ovulation as it should be – giving rise to the condition’s name.
This is one of the many reasons why there is still confusion around this condition. In fact, the “cysts” aren’t your standard cysts that need removal. They are actually small follicles (a normal part of the ovulating ovary), each containing an egg. The buildup in the ovary due to eggs not being released (or fertilized) over time impacts the ovaries’ ability to produce important female hormones to regulate your cycle.
Here are some of the more common symptoms of PCOS:
When patients present with hormonal imbalances or conditions like PCOS, most traditionally-trained clinicians focus on a diagnosis along with a synthetic drug protocol to treat the symptoms. PCOS is typically treated with oral birth control, which may lessen the symptoms but can be a real concern for several reasons.
Unfortunately, this can bring on more unwanted side effects (especially for women who are estrogen-dominant) and increase their breast cancer risk.
Taking additional estrogen without receiving the proper, in-depth hormonal testing, may put you at serious risk, yet does not deal with the root causes of PCOS which typically has multi-faceted causes.
One of the reasons why many conventional health practitioners are at a loss to treat PCOS, is that it’s a complex condition that is brought on by a combo of hormonal imbalances and gut issues that they are not trained to diagnose and treat.
It is estimated that 1 in 10 women suffer from PCOS, and sadly, over half of those go undiagnosed.
As already mentioned, PCOS is also the leading cause of why women have such a hard time getting pregnant.
The really sad part is… some of these women have been diagnosed with PCOS only to be told that they just have to manage the symptoms and nothing can be done.
And as a result, their doctors often place them on medications that don’t even begin to deal with the root cause of this imbalance.
The functional medicine approach is to not only understand the root cause of any imbalance but also how other systems in your body may be impacted or connected to the imbalance.
Whenever I begin working with a new client, I begin with a comprehensive look at the hormone levels impacted by PCOS.
This gives me a clearer picture of where you may need the most support in the areas of insulin, gut, and hormone imbalances that are typically part of PCOS.
In functional medicine, I treat the body as a whole – that's why I approach PCOS from a holistic viewpoint and first see if the imbalance can be adjusted through natural means and lifestyle changes.
The goal is to allow your body to re-establish normal function so your hormonal health can rebalance naturally.
As part of my program, I devise a full body-balancing protocol that not only resolves your PCOS but also addresses other areas that may be causing havoc with your hormones – including diet, gut health, lifestyle, and stress factors, sleep habits and more.
If you have been experiencing symptoms that may be connected with PCOS and are looking for answers, schedule a discovery consult today so you can see what your best next steps are.
My goal is to help your hormones, metabolism, and cycle work together again so day-to-day life feels easier. As I improve sleep, meals, movement, and stress – and support nutrients – many people notice more regular cycles, fewer skin flares, less bloating, and steadier energy. Mood usually feels calmer, and cravings are easier to manage. Over time, these simple steps can also support fertility and long-term health.
Your safety comes first. If you have severe pelvic pain, heavy bleeding that soaks through a pad or tampon every hour for several hours, fainting, chest pain, trouble breathing, or a new severe headache with vision changes or weakness, seek urgent care. If you might be pregnant, take a test and contact your clinician. If you’re on medications (including birth control, metformin, or others), I’ll coordinate with your prescribing clinician so your plan is safe and tailored to you.
Not exactly. Many people with PCOS have small follicles on the ovaries, but PCOS is really about hormone and metabolic imbalance – irregular ovulation, higher androgens, and related symptoms.
Yes. PCOS is linked with a higher chance of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes over time, so steadying blood sugar early is important.
No. Birth control can help some symptoms, but many people improve with nutrition, sleep, movement, stress tools, and targeted support. Care is individualized, and medicines are one option among many.
Often yes. PCOS is a common cause of ovulation-related infertility, but many people conceive with cycle support and, when needed, medical treatment.
Some notice steadier energy, fewer cravings, or clearer skin within a few weeks. Cycle changes usually take a few months as habits settle and the body finds a new rhythm.
No. I focus on balance and timing: regular meals with protein, fiber-rich carbs, healthy fats, and colorful plants. Extreme rules usually backfire; simple, steady steps win.
PCOS can change across your lifespan – often showing up in the teens and shifting through your 20s–40s. Symptoms are manageable, and long-term risks can be lowered with consistent care.
Telehealth is available after your first in-person visit at Pristine Hormones & Weight.
I'll review your goals and history and outline smart first steps. I can go over specific tests, treatments, and services as part of that call.
You may also want to read about Insulin Resistance, Medical Weight Loss, Thyroid Imbalances, PCOS, Functional Medicine since these areas often connect with PCOS and can influence how you feel day to day.
Pristine Hormones & Weight is located in Reno, Nevada, and serves patients throughout the Greater Reno Area.