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Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

PCOS is one of the most frequent encountered endocrine disorders occurring in as many as 10 percent of women of reproductive age. A patient usually presents clinically with concerns regarding menstrual irregularities, infertility and hirsutism. This syndrome is also associated with improper utilization of essential fatty acids, a.k.a. dyslipidemia. If not properly diagnosed and treated a patient is at a higher risk for type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and hyper-estrogen related cancers. One of the hallmarks of this endocrine disorder is hyperinsulinism, a.k.a. excessive insulin that is secreted from the pancreas. Additionally, there seems to be a defect in the hypo-thalimic pituitary axis, i.e. improper hormonal signaling. Most patients will have altered waist to hip ratios. There is also evidence of a link between chronic stress situations and multiple hormonal imbalances. Research consistently demonstrates that the first line of therapy for this condition is weight reduction. During a conference for Bariatric Physicians, which I am a member of, we discussed relevant testing and beneficial therapeutics.

It is important to test for the following: Total and Free testosterone, DHEA-S, and progesterone measurements. Also, thyroid testing and ovarian functions may be indicated. Normally I will run a PCO panel on my patients, which is comprehensive to cover all organ systems. When treating PCOS, I like to use a combination approach. If we decide to utilize pharmaceutical medications, we always will integrate these with our botanicals and nutraceuticals. Some of the most promising treatments for PCOS are enteric-coated EFA's, i.e. EPA-DHA (www.drsadilek.meta-ehealth.com). This will help regulate the inflammatory pathway. Dietary fiber is crucial. It is important to find a fiber that provides soluble and insoluble properties. For metabolic balancing/weight control and glucose control, I find the following to be effective. We utilize the Metabolic Weight Management System. This system is easy and it allows patients to quickly regain better insulin glucose ratios. Additionally, adding something as simple as RX BioCitrin 2 capsules, three times daily, will greatly reduce the dysglycemia. Several botanicals may be effective; Vitex, commonly used to treat menstrual irregularities and Urtica Dioica is proven to have positive effect on some of the steroid hormones.