Last Updated on July 7, 2025
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common endocrine disorders affecting individuals of reproductive age. Despite how common it is—impacting an estimated 1 in 10 women globally—PCOS is frequently underdiagnosed and misunderstood. At Inner Gate Health & Wellness in Portland, our integrative approach helps uncover the unique drivers behind each person’s symptoms to create an individualized treatment plan.
What Is PCOS?
PCOS is a complex hormonal condition characterized by irregular ovulation, androgen excess (elevated male hormones), and polycystic ovaries seen on ultrasound. However, you don’t need to have ovarian cysts to be diagnosed with PCOS.
According to the Rotterdam Criteria (the most commonly used diagnostic guidelines), a person must meet two of the following three criteria for a PCOS diagnosis:
- Irregular or absent ovulation (oligo- or anovulation)
- Elevated androgen levels (via bloodwork or symptoms like acne or hirsutism)
- Polycystic-appearing ovaries on ultrasound
Source:PubMed
The 4 Types of PCOS
Source: PubMed
Not all PCOS is the same. Understanding the subtypes can help target treatment more effectively. The following types are not formally recognized in diagnostic manuals but are commonly used in functional and integrative medicine:
- Insulin-Resistant PCOS
- Most common type
- Driven by high insulin levels, often associated with weight gain, fatigue, and sugar cravings
- May improve with blood sugar regulation strategies
- Research: Insulin resistance is a key feature in up to 75% of individuals with PCOS
(PubMed)
- Post-Pill PCOS
- Occurs after discontinuing hormonal birth control
- Periods may stop or become irregular
- Usually temporary (can resolve within 6–12 months)
- Inflammatory PCOS
- Characterized by chronic low-grade inflammation
- May present with fatigue, joint pain, skin conditions (like eczema), or digestive issues
- Elevated inflammatory markers like CRP may be present
(PubMed)
- Adrenal PCOS
- Driven by stress and overproduction of adrenal androgens like DHEA-S
- Bloodwork may show normal testosterone but elevated DHEA-S
- More common in lean individuals
(PubMed)
Common Symptoms of PCOS
PCOS symptoms vary, but may include:
- Irregular or absent periods
- Cystic acne
- Unwanted facial or body hair (hirsutism)
- Thinning hair or hair loss on the scalp
- Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
- Mood changes or anxiety
- Infertility or trouble ovulating
- Fatigue or blood sugar imbalances
It’s important to note that PCOS can affect people of all body sizes—you do not need to be overweight to have PCOS.
The Role of Naturopathic Medicine in PCOS
Naturopathic medicine looks beyond symptom management to identify and address root causes of hormone imbalance. We may evaluate:
- Blood sugar and insulin levels (fasting insulin, HOMA-IR, glucose tolerance test)
- Inflammatory markers (CRP, ESR)
- Adrenal function (DHEA-S, cortisol patterns)
- Nutrient deficiencies (e.g., magnesium, B vitamins, vitamin D, inositol)
- Gut health and microbiome imbalances, which have been linked to PCOS in recent research
(PubMed)
Emerging Research: What’s New in PCOS?
- Gut Microbiome & PCOS: Studies suggest that people with PCOS may have reduced gut microbial diversity, which can impact inflammation, insulin sensitivity, and hormone metabolism. Probiotics and dietary fiber may help improve symptoms.
(PubMed) - Inositol Supplements: A growing body of evidence supports the use of myo-inositol and D-chiro-inositol to improve insulin sensitivity, ovulation, and fertility outcomes.
(PubMed) - Anti-inflammatory and Mediterranean diets: Diets rich in anti-inflammatory foods—like leafy greens, berries, fatty fish, and olive oil—have shown promise in reducing symptoms, especially in inflammatory and insulin-resistant PCOS.
(PubMed)
How We Treat PCOS at Inner Gate
At Inner Gate Health & Wellness, we create a personalized treatment plan based on your PCOS type and symptoms. Our integrative approach may include:
- Nutrition counseling with a focus on blood sugar balance and anti-inflammatory foods
- Herbal medicine and supplements like inositol, berberine, NAC (evidence-based)
- Hormonal testing to better understand your pattern
- Stress support including adaptogens, acupuncture, and mindfulness practices
- Lifestyle support around movement, sleep, and sustainable routines
PCOS Is Manageable—You’re Not Alone
PCOS can be overwhelming, but with the right diagnosis and targeted care, symptoms can improve significantly. Whether you’re trying to regulate cycles, improve skin health, support fertility, or simply feel better, you deserve a team that listens and empowers you.
Want to learn more about how we can help with PCOS?
Contact Inner Gate Health & Wellness in Portland today.