Overview Causes Symptoms Treatment
What is polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)?
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that affects how a woman’s ovaries function. It is one of the most common causes of infertility and hormonal imbalance in women of reproductive age. In PCOS, the ovaries may develop multiple small fluid-filled sacs (cysts) and fail to regularly release eggs during ovulation.
Common Related Conditions
Causes of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)
The exact cause of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is not fully understood, but several factors contribute to its development. Hormonal imbalance plays a central role, particularly elevated androgens (male hormones), which interfere with normal ovulation. Insulin resistance is another major factor, as high insulin levels can stimulate the ovaries to produce more androgens, worsening symptoms. Genetics also appears to play a role, since PCOS often runs in families. Other contributing factors include inflammation, stress, and lifestyle influences such as poor diet or lack of physical activity. These elements can disrupt the delicate balance of reproductive hormones, leading to irregular menstrual cycles and ovulation problems.
PCOS is a major cause of female infertility, affecting between 8% and 20% of women worldwide. Most women learn they have PCOS in their 20s or 30s when they consult their doctor about problems getting pregnant. PCOS can happen at any age after puberty. Women of all races and ethnicities are at risk of PCOS, but the frequency is higher in women who have obesity or have a mother, sister, or aunt with PCOS. As well as problems with fertility, women with PCOS can experience irregular menstrual cycles, changes in physical appearance (acne, weight gain, excessive hair growth), heart problems, and increased risk for diabetes.
Symptoms of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)
- Irregular or missed menstrual cycles
- Difficulty conceiving due to a lack of ovulation
- Excess hair growth on the face, chest, or abdomen (hirsutism)
- Acne or oily skin
- Thinning hair or hair loss on the scalp
- Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
- Darkened skin patches (acanthosis nigricans), often on the neck or underarms
- Mood changes or depression
- Pelvic pain or bloating (in some cases)
- Infertility
Treatment for polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)
Although PCOS is widely recognized as a hormonal disorder, some women also experience a mechanical component. In certain cases, the ovaries may become surrounded by collagen-rich fibrous tissue—the same material that forms adhesions. The pituitary gland, an area we treat via the dura and its surrounding tissues the pituitary gland. That gland is involved in PCOS because it regulates hormones, including luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which are crucial for ovulation. Because our therapy addresses both structural (mechanical) restrictions and hormonal influences in the pelvis and within the cranium, we believe this dual approach is beneficial for some patients with PCOS-related infertility.
Healthy reproductive function depends on effective communication between the ovaries in the pelvis and the pituitary and hypothalamus (PH) glands deep within the skull. The pituitary gland, often called the “master gland” of female reproduction, sits within a protected cavity of the sphenoid bone and plays a central role in producing and regulating reproductive hormones. Physicians recognize the critical communication loop between the pituitary/hypothalamus and the ovaries, known as the hypothalamic pituitary-ovarian (HPO) axis, though its exact biological mechanisms are not fully understood. This HPO axis helps determine whether a woman’s eggs can mature properly.
Our success with hormone-related infertility is rooted in our whole-body approach. We treat structures throughout the pelvis, along the spinal cord and dura, and up into the cranium. This pathway mirrors the HPO axis that reproductive specialists consider essential for proper hormonal signaling.
A key structure along this route is the dura, a tough, fascial sheath that surrounds the spinal cord from the coccyx upward to the base of the skull. It travels through the foramen magnum into the cranium, where it envelops the brain and all intracranial structures, including the sphenoid bone and the pituitary hypothalamus complex. Therefore, throughout treatment, we address the entire continuum of reproductive and supportive structures from the ovaries and tailbone into the cranium.
Other Treatment Options (Surgery, Drugs)
PCOS may be treated with pharmaceuticals or surgery. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages. Surgery generally involves drilling holes in the ovary or ovarian wedging, cutting a pie-shaped wedge out of the ovary. Either technique carries the risk of post-surgical adhesions on the delicate surface and within the ovary. There are many treatment choices for PCOS, please consult your physician to discuss pharmaceutical treatment pertinent to you.
Condition Specific Disclaimer:
Clear Passage® Therapy is a non-surgical, manual physical therapy designed to address adhesions and restricted soft tissue mobility. While many patients report improved pelvic mobility, pain reduction, and enhanced reproductive function following therapy, results vary for each individual.
The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Clear Passage® Therapy does not diagnose PCOS, infertility, or any underlying hormonal or metabolic disorder, and it should not replace evaluation or treatment by a licensed physician. We encourage every patient to seek evaluation from their physician.
Testimonials:
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