pcos
What We Treat
PCOS Treatment
in St. Louis
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) affects millions of women worldwide, causing many uncomfortable symptoms. PCOS can lead to a vicious cycle involving hormone balance. Hormone imbalances can lead to cyst development while the presence of cysts can lead to further hormone imbalances.
While the exact cause of PCOS remains unknown, research shows that managing hormones is key to reversing the condition.
Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) has emerged as a promising treatment option for PCOS, offering women a way to restore hormonal balance and alleviate symptoms. At biolifebalance, we’ve been serving women in the St. Louis area for years. With a personalized BHRT protocol, we can effectively treat PCOS and provide women with the relief they deserve.
If you need PCOS treatment in St. Louis, consider bioidentical hormone replacement therapy. Schedule a free consultation to learn more.
Understanding PCOS and Hormonal Imbalances
PCOS is a complex endocrine disorder characterized by an imbalance of reproductive hormones in a woman’s body. The condition is typically marked by elevated levels of androgens (such as testosterone) and insulin, along with lower levels of progesterone. These hormonal disruptions disrupt normal ovulation, leading to the formation of small cysts on the ovaries and a range of distressing symptoms.
- Menstrual Irregularities: Women with PCOS often experience irregular menstrual cycles, which may involve infrequent periods, prolonged periods, or heavy bleeding.
- Ovarian Cysts: PCOS is characterized by the presence of multiple small cysts on the ovaries. However, not all women with PCOS develop cysts, and the presence of cysts alone is not sufficient for diagnosis.
- Hyperandrogenism: Elevated levels of androgens (male hormones) are often observed in women with PCOS. This can lead to symptoms such as excessive hair growth (hirsutism), particularly on the face, chest, or back. Other signs of hyperandrogenism include acne and male-pattern baldness.
- Insulin Resistance: Many women with PCOS have insulin resistance, which means their cells are less responsive to the effects of insulin. This can result in elevated insulin levels, which may lead to weight gain, difficulty losing weight, and an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
- Weight Gain: PCOS is commonly associated with weight gain or difficulty losing weight. Women with PCOS often struggle with obesity or have a higher body mass index (BMI) compared to women without the condition.
- Fertility Issues: Hormonal imbalances and irregular ovulation can make it more challenging for women with PCOS to conceive. PCOS is one of the leading causes of female infertility.
- Mood Changes: Some women with PCOS may experience mood swings, depression, or anxiety, which can be attributed to hormonal fluctuations and the emotional impact of dealing with the symptoms and challenges associated with the condition.
- Skin Problems: In addition to acne caused by increased androgen levels, women with PCOS may also experience skin conditions such as oily skin, skin tags, or darkening of certain areas of the skin (acanthosis nigricans).
The Role of Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy in Treating PCOS
Bioidentical hormones are created from natural sources and are structurally identical to the hormones produced by the human body. BHRT aims to restore hormonal balance by supplementing the body with these hormones, such as progesterone and estrogen, in a form that is easily processed by the body.
Unlike synthetic hormones, bioidentical hormones closely mimic the body’s natural hormone levels, allowing for more targeted treatment with fewer side effects.
Benefits of bioidentical hormone replacement therapy for PCOS:
- Restoring Hormonal Balance: BHRT can help normalize the levels of androgens, insulin, and other hormones in women with PCOS. By addressing the root cause of the condition, BHRT assists in regulating the menstrual cycle and reducing the formation of ovarian cysts.
- Improved Fertility: Hormonal imbalances often contribute to fertility challenges in women with PCOS. Bioidentical hormones, such as progesterone, can support regular ovulation and create a more conducive environment for conception.
- Symptom Relief: PCOS can manifest through various symptoms, including irregular periods, excessive hair growth, acne, weight gain, and mood swings. BHRT can help alleviate these symptoms by rebalancing hormone levels, leading to improved overall well-being and quality of life.
- Individualized Treatment: One of the key advantages of BHRT is the ability to customize treatment based on a woman's specific hormone profile. Hormone levels can be measured through blood tests, enabling healthcare professionals to tailor the therapy to address each woman's unique needs.
Relieve Symptoms Sooner with Functional Medicine
Biolifebalance’s functional medicine treatment plans support BHRT with natural lifestyle recommendations. These recommendations address the underlying factors contributing to the condition that can’t be addressed by hormone therapy. Unlike traditional medicine, which often focuses on symptom management, functional medicine aims to identify and treat the root causes of PCOS.
By considering a person’s unique genetic makeup, lifestyle, environment, and overall health, functional medicine practitioners develop personalized treatment plans. These plans may include dietary changes, targeted nutritional supplements, stress management techniques, exercise programs, and hormone-balancing strategies.
Let’s Discuss Your PCOS Treatment in St. Louis
Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy offers a compelling approach to treating PCOS by addressing the underlying hormonal imbalances that contribute to the condition’s symptoms. By providing women with customized hormone supplementation derived from natural sources, BHRT helps restore hormonal balance, regulate the menstrual cycle, and alleviate PCOS-related symptoms.
Biolifebalance is now inviting prospective patients to schedule free consultations with Dr. Thatch. Let’s see how BHRT can support your health goals!
