Seeing a PCOS/PMOS naturopathic doctor: what to expect

If you’re searching for a PCOS/PMOS naturopathic doctor, you may be wondering if you have PCOS/PMOS. Or perhaps you have already been diagnosed and want to know what you can do naturally to improve it. Your ND will provide evidence-based therapies that may include diet, supplements, movement and more. This guide explains what PCOS/PMOS guidelines say, what a naturopathic visit involves, and how the two fit together.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS/PMOS) affects about 10% of women of reproductive age. It’s usually diagnosed when two of three features are present, after other causes have been ruled out: irregular or absent ovulation, signs of higher androgens (such as acne, excess facial or body hair, or scalp hair thinning) on exam or lab testing, and polycystic-looking ovaries on ultrasound.

Why PCOS/PMOS is about more than irregular periods

PCOS, now aptly renamed polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS), can affect more than your cycle: skin and hair, fertility, sleep, mood and long-term metabolic health. Increased risk of infertility, high blood pressure, insulin resistance and mood concerns underscore the importance of PCOS/PMOS care.

Is there a PCOS/PMOS diet?

There is no one diet for PCOS/PMOS. The 2023 international PCOS guideline found no evidence to support any one type of diet over another. Instead, evidence suggests sustainable, healthy eating that manages the tendency toward insulin resistance. Low-carb, anti-inflammatory, keto or paleo: none has been shown to be the PCOS/PMOS diet.

What do PCOS guidelines say about exercise?

The international guideline recommends healthy lifestyle behaviours, including physical activity, for everyone with PCOS. For adults, its targets match general public-health guidance: 150 to 300 minutes of moderate activity or 75 to 150 minutes of vigorous activity a week, plus muscle-strengthening activities on two non-consecutive days, and limiting time spent sitting.

As with food, the plan that matters is one you can maintain. Walking, cycling, swimming, dancing or a class with a friend all count, and building up gradually is fine. If you’re starting from very little activity, begin with short sessions and add time week by week.

What happens when you see a PCOS/PMOS naturopathic doctor?

A naturopathic doctor’s role is assessment, ordering testing where it’s needed, and a written plan that works for you. A first visit usually covers:

• A full history of your cycles, skin, hair, sleep, mood, digestion and family health
• A physical exam where it relates to your concerns
• Lab testing where it’s needed, and a review of any results you already have, since other causes of irregular cycles need to be ruled out before PMOS is diagnosed
• A written plan that addresses your goals
• A review of any supplements or medications you are already on, including product quality and interactions, and if necessary, a prescription for natural medicine(s)
• If you’re trying to conceive, a discussion about your fertility assessment

You can take your results and plan to your family doctor, so everyone is working from the same page.

Working with your family doctor on PCOS/PMOS

If you opt for prescription medications like hormonal birth control, metformin or anti-androgens to be part of your plan, we make sure to create a plan for you that can be combined safely with your medication.

Seeing a naturopathic doctor at Natura for PCOS/PMOS

At Natura Integrative Care Clinic in Steinbach, irregular periods and hormonal concerns are common reasons people book with a naturopathic doctor. Dr. Erin Esau, ND has a focus on fertility, and Dr. Jayden Dobson, ND, who sees patients by virtual visit only, has a focus on metabolic and preventive health.

• Initial visit: 60 to 90 minutes, $300, in person in Steinbach or by virtual visit.
• Two-part first visit: first naturopathic visits can be an accelerated two-part visit, where a registered nurse takes your case (asks you the questions about your health) before you see the ND, which usually means you can get in to see the ND sooner.
• Follow-ups: 30, 45 or 60 minutes ($100, $155 or $200).
• Lab testing: testing ordered by an ND isn’t covered by Manitoba Health, so you pay the lab directly. Our guide to lab testing with a naturopathic doctor in Manitoba explains how it works.
• Payment: Natura doesn’t bill insurers directly; you pay at the visit and submit the receipt to your extended health plan.

Lindsay Porter, B.Kin, CSEP-CEP is Natura’s clinical exercise physiologist, and nobody needs to be fit before they start. Natura also offers counselling with Cameron Plett, M.A., booked by phone or through his own website. If you’re hoping to conceive, see our preconception health checklist.