The Functional Medicine Approach to PCOS

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common hormone conditions affecting women of reproductive age. It is often described by irregular periods, ovarian cysts, acne, excess hair growth, and difficulty with fertility. But PCOS is far more than a reproductive disorder. It’s a whole-body condition, deeply tied to metabolism, hormones, and inflammation.

At Sheen Vein (Aesthetics and Functional Medicine) here in St. Louis, we take a functional medicine approach to PCOS—looking beyond symptoms to uncover root causes. For many women, this approach is life-changing because it addresses not only fertility but also energy, weight, and long-term health.

Why PCOS Is More Than Hormones

Most conventional treatment for PCOS focuses on symptom management: birth control pills to regulate cycles, medications for acne, or fertility drugs when trying to conceive. While these tools have their place, they often don’t address why PCOS happens in the first place.

PCOS is not just about the ovaries—it’s about:

  • Insulin resistance: High insulin levels drive excess androgen production, worsening symptoms.
  • Chronic inflammation: Low-grade inflammation increases the risk of weight gain and metabolic issues.
  • Nutrient deficiencies: Deficiencies in vitamin D, magnesium, and omega-3s can worsen hormone imbalances.
  • Gut health imbalances: Dysbiosis in the gut microbiome can affect hormones, inflammation, and metabolism.
  • Stress and cortisol dysregulation: High stress hormones can throw off ovulation and worsen PCOS symptoms.

By addressing these interconnected systems, functional medicine seeks to restore balance at the root level.

The Functional Medicine Evaluation

At Sheen Vein, the evaluation for PCOS goes deeper than a surface diagnosis. We look at the whole picture:

  • Comprehensive lab testing: Glucose, insulin, hemoglobin A1c, fasting lipids, thyroid function, sex hormones, and inflammatory markers.
  • Nutrient analysis: Checking for deficiencies in vitamin D, B vitamins, magnesium, and omega-3s.
  • Gut health evaluation: Identifying microbiome imbalances that may worsen inflammation and insulin resistance.
  • Lifestyle and history review: Stress levels, sleep quality, diet, and exercise habits are all considered part of the root-cause equation.

This thorough approach allows us to customize treatment for each woman—because no two cases of PCOS are exactly the same.

Functional Medicine Strategies for PCOS

1. Balancing Insulin and Blood Sugar

Since insulin resistance drives many PCOS symptoms, stabilizing blood sugar is a key first step.

  • Low-glycemic, whole-food eating plans help prevent sugar spikes.
  • Regular strength training improves insulin sensitivity.
  • Supplements such as inositol, magnesium, and omega-3s can help restore balance.

2. Reducing Inflammation

Chronic inflammation worsens PCOS symptoms and raises long-term health risks.

  • Anti-inflammatory nutrition, including colorful vegetables, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants, helps calm inflammation.
  • Addressing gut health reduces inflammatory triggers.
  • Targeted therapies such as vitamin D supplementation play a role in lowering inflammation markers.

3. Supporting Hormone Balance

Instead of masking hormone problems, functional medicine works to restore balance.

  • Bioidentical hormone support may help regulate cycles.
  • Stress management strategies (yoga, meditation, breathwork) improve cortisol levels, which indirectly support reproductive hormones.
  • Herbal therapies like spearmint tea or chaste tree berry can help regulate androgens in some women.

4. Optimizing Gut and Nutrient Health

The gut microbiome influences estrogen metabolism, inflammation, and insulin sensitivity. Healing the gut through probiotics, prebiotics, and tailored nutrition supports PCOS management. Replenishing key nutrients—vitamin D, zinc, and B vitamins—also improves symptoms and metabolic function.

5. Personalized Lifestyle Medicine

Instead of one-size-fits-all prescriptions, functional medicine emphasizes individual goals and preferences. For one woman, improving fertility may be the top priority; for another, it may be weight management, acne relief, or energy. Each plan is unique.

Why This Matters for Long-Term Health

PCOS is not just a fertility issue—it is also linked to serious long-term health risks, including:

  • Type 2 diabetes
  • High cholesterol
  • Heart disease
  • Sleep apnea
  • Endometrial cancer

By addressing insulin resistance, inflammation, and hormone balance early, we can not only improve daily quality of life but also protect long-term health.

PCOS Care at Sheen Vein in St. Louis

At Sheen Vein (Aesthetics and Functional Medicine), we combine medical expertise with a functional medicine approach to help women with PCOS find real solutions. Our care includes:

  • Comprehensive diagnostic testing
  • Personalized nutrition and lifestyle planning
  • Functional medicine protocols for insulin resistance and hormone balance
  • Advanced therapies, including bioidentical hormones and nutrient support

We don’t just treat the symptoms of PCOS—we work to transform your overall health.

Final Thoughts

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is more than a hormone problem—it’s a systemic condition tied to insulin resistance, inflammation, nutrient deficiencies, and stress. The functional medicine approach looks beyond prescriptions to uncover root causes and restore balance.

If you’re living with PCOS in the St. Louis area, know that there are solutions beyond symptom management. At Sheen Vein (Aesthetics and Functional Medicine), we are here to help you reclaim your energy, balance your hormones, and restore your health—inside and out.

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