PCOS Remedies NYC - Dr. Alicia Armitstead

Untreated PCOS can lead to significant health complications over time. Prolonged menstrual irregularity raises the risk of endometrial cancer. Insulin resistance may progress to Type 2 diabetes or heart-related issues, while continued hormonal imbalances can exacerbate weight gain, fertility challenges, or mental health issues like anxiety and depression.

-Dr. Alicia Armitstead

Natural Remedies for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome at the Healing Arts NYC Health and Wellness Center in Manhattan NY 10017 and Connecticut

What Is PCOS?

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder that affects women of reproductive age. It disrupts normal ovary function, leading to irregular menstrual cycles, excess androgen (male hormone) production, and sometimes small cysts on the ovaries. This condition can have far-reaching effects, influencing both reproductive health and metabolic and mental well-being.

Common Symptoms of PCOS

PCOS manifests with a range of symptoms, which can vary in severity from one woman to another. Below are some of the most common symptoms, along with detailed descriptions:

• Irregular Periods - PCOS often causes infrequent or prolonged menstrual cycles, making it challenging to predict ovulation. Some women may have fewer than eight periods per year or none at all. 

• Excess Androgen - Elevated male hormone levels can lead to physical signs such as excessive facial and body hair (hirsutism), acne, and thinning scalp hair resembling male-pattern baldness. 

• Weight Gain - Many women with PCOS report difficulty maintaining a healthy weight due to insulin resistance, a common complication of the condition. 

• Ovarian Cysts - Small fluid-filled sacs may form on the ovaries, visible on ultrasound, although not all women with PCOS develop them. 

• Fertility Struggles - The lack of ovulation makes it harder for women with PCOS to conceive, making this a leading cause of infertility for many.

Common Causes of PCOS

The exact cause of PCOS is unknown, but several factors are believed to contribute to its development. Below are some key contributors, along with descriptions:

• Hormonal Imbalances - An overproduction of androgens interferes with ovulation and contributes to many of the symptoms, such as acne and excess hair growth. 

• Insulin Resistance - Many women with PCOS experience insulin resistance, where the body struggles to use insulin effectively. This can lead to high blood sugar levels and weight gain. PCOS is known as diabetes of the ovaries. I always find blood sugar issues with PCOS patients. When we remedy PCOS, we prevent diabetes.

• Inflammation - Chronic low-grade inflammation is linked to higher androgen levels in women with PCOS, further exacerbating the condition. 

• Genetics - PCOS often runs in families. Your risk may be higher if your mother or sister has the condition. 
  

Possible Side Effects of Traditional Treatments

Though traditional treatments can provide symptom relief, they are not without drawbacks. Hormonal birth control pills may lead to side effects such as mood changes, headaches, and increased blood pressure. Medications targeting insulin resistance, like Metformin, can cause gastrointestinal upset, including nausea and diarrhea. Anti-androgen medications may not be safe for women trying to conceive, limiting their compatibility with family-planning goals.

How Dr. Alicia Armitstead Uses Treats PCOS Remedies NYC Naturally

At Healing Arts NYC, Dr. Alicia Armitstead takes a holistic, individualized approach to PCOS management, addressing the root cause rather than merely treating symptoms. With her expertise in muscle testing, a combination of nutrition response testing, and applied kinesiology, Dr. Armitstead offers natural, non-invasive solutions. 

• Applied Kinesiology is a non-invasive modality that helps to understand a patient's unique biochemical imbalances. These methods assess the body's energy and reflex points, allowing Dr. Armitstead to pinpoint hormonal imbalances, food intolerances, or nutrient deficiencies that contribute to PCOS. 

• Nutrition Response Testing is a method where Dr. Armitstead uses subtle muscle resistance tests to determine exactly what nutrition the body needs. This non-invasive technique helps customize a protocol of nutritional supplements like herbs, vitamins, or homeopathic remedies that support hormonal regulation and overall health. Dr. Armitstead is one of the few Nutrition Response Testing Master Practitioners in the country.

Natural Holistic Approach

Dr. Armitstead's approach focuses on restoring the body's natural healing abilities. Here's what her treatments may include:

• Customized Nutrition Plans - Tailored dietary recommendations help stabilize insulin levels, reduce inflammation, and support hormonal balance. 

• Herbal Remedies and Supplements - Natural remedies such as Vitex or omega-3 fatty acids may be suggested to regulate menstrual cycles and reduce androgen levels. 

• Lifestyle Adjustments - Recommendations include stress management techniques like yoga or meditation, as stress contributes to inflammation and hormonal imbalance. 

Dr. Armitstead's methods aim to not only resolve PCOS symptoms but also improve long-term health and well-being.

What Can Happen if PCOS Is Left Untreated?

Untreated PCOS can lead to significant health complications over time. Prolonged menstrual irregularity raises the risk of endometrial cancer. Insulin resistance may progress to Type 2 diabetes or heart-related issues, while continued hormonal imbalances can exacerbate weight gain, fertility challenges, or mental health issues like anxiety and depression.

Case Study of Dr. Armitstead Treating a Patient with PCOS 

One of Dr. Armitstead's patients, Sarah, was a 29-year-old woman diagnosed with PCOS after struggling with severe acne, irregular periods, and difficulty conceiving. Traditional treatments left her frustrated due to side effects from hormonal birth control and no significant improvement in her fertility. Seeking a natural alternative, Sarah visited Healing Arts NYC. 

Dr. Armitstead identified Sarah's key imbalances, including chronic inflammation and insulin resistance, using Nutrition Response Testing and Applied Kinesiology. Sarah was placed on a customized plan that included a low-glycemic diet, omega-3 supplements, and herbal remedies like Vitex.

Stress-reducing practices such as guided meditation were also introduced into her routine. Within six months, Sarah reported regular menstrual cycles, a significant reduction in acne, and, most excitingly, she became pregnant a year into treatment. 

This transformation highlights the power of addressing PCOS holistically and targeting the underlying contributors to the condition.

Additional References

• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) - National Institute of Child Health and Human Development