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Physical, Mental and Spiritual Causes of PCOS

Women experiencing pain from PCOS
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As Holistic Mind-Body-Soul Therapists, we look for the root causes of health on the physical, mental and spiritual levels. Using our own unique healing methodology, we assist our clients back to health and wellbeing.

Our goal for this article is to provide an overview of the physical, mental and spiritual causes of PCOS that go beyond conventional thinking. Our hope is that it will help you understand the condition better, ultimately with the objective of getting to the root cause of the issue(s). 

Whether you are someone diagnosed with PCOS, a supportive parent, friend or relative, or a curious seeker of holistic wellbeing and health, this information is designed to provide a thoughtful exploration and our hope is that it will help connect the dots to the different areas that require support when dealing with PCOS. 

 

Introduction to PCOS

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder that affects individuals with ovaries, typically during their reproductive years. It is characterised by a combination of symptoms that can vary significantly from person to person. The exact cause of PCOS remains unclear from a conventional perspective, and from a physical level it is believed to involve a complex interplay of genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors.

PCOS presents a range of signs and symptoms, which may include:

  • Irregular Menstrual Cycles: Individuals may experience infrequent, irregular, or prolonged menstrual periods due to disrupted ovulation.
  • Excess Androgen Levels: Elevated levels of male hormones can lead to physical manifestations such as hirsutism (excessive hair growth on the face and body), acne, and oily skin.
  • Polycystic Ovaries: Ultrasound examinations may reveal enlarged ovaries with multiple small cysts, although not everyone with PCOS has these cysts.
  • Weight Gain: Many individuals with PCOS struggle with weight management, often developing insulin resistance, which can lead to further complications.
  • Thinning Hair: Some may experience hair thinning or male-pattern baldness due to hormonal imbalances.
  • Infertility: PCOS is one of the leading causes of infertility in women, as it can disrupt normal ovulation.
  • Skin Issues: Conditions like dark patches of skin (acanthosis nigricans) may occur, often in areas such as the neck, armpits, or groin.
  • Mood Changes: Individuals with PCOS may experience mood swings, anxiety, or depression, potentially linked to hormonal fluctuations and challenges with body image.
 

Physical Causes of PCOS

Insulin Resistance

One of the primary physical causes of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is insulin resistance. In this condition, the body’s cells become less responsive to insulin, a hormone responsible for regulating blood sugar levels. To compensate, the body produces more insulin, which can lead to increased production of androgens (male hormones) in the ovaries. Elevated androgen levels disrupt the normal menstrual cycle, leading to irregular periods, difficulty ovulating, and the development of ovarian cysts. Insulin resistance also contributes to weight gain, which can further exacerbate PCOS symptoms.

 

Hormonal Imbalances

PCOS is characterised by an imbalance of reproductive hormones, particularly an excess of androgens, such as testosterone. While women naturally produce small amounts of androgens, elevated levels can interfere with the normal function of the ovaries, preventing ovulation and causing symptoms like acne, excessive hair growth (hirsutism), and male-pattern hair loss. This hormonal imbalance also contributes to the development of the small cysts on the ovaries that are a hallmark of PCOS.

When the body experiences oestrogen dominance, which is often due to environmental influences like xenoestrogens found in food and surroundings, progesterone struggles to counteract the effects of oestrogen. This imbalance can result in irregular menstrual cycles, weight gain, and mood fluctuations.

Elevated levels of luteinising hormone (LH) has been seen with PCOS, which stimulates the ovaries to release more male hormones. This can lead to irregular periods, excessive hair growth, thinning hair and even acne.

 

Low levels of Key Vitamins and Minerals

Deficiencies in essential vitamins and minerals can play a role in the development and worsening of PCOS symptoms. Nutrients such as vitamin D, magnesium, and B vitamins are crucial for hormone regulation, insulin sensitivity, and overall metabolic health. Low levels of vitamin D, in particular, have been linked to increased insulin resistance, higher androgen levels, and more severe symptoms in women with PCOS. Similarly, deficiencies in magnesium and B vitamins can impact energy levels, glucose metabolism, and stress responses, all of which are important in managing PCOS. Ensuring adequate intake of these key nutrients may help improve insulin sensitivity and hormonal balance, potentially alleviating some PCOS symptoms.

 

Poor Diet – High Refined Sugars, Processed Foods

A poor diet, particularly one high in processed foods, refined sugars, and unhealthy fats, can worsen the symptoms of PCOS. Diets that cause frequent spikes in blood sugar and insulin levels can increase insulin resistance, a core issue in many women with PCOS. High insulin levels, in turn, lead to increased production of androgens, worsening symptoms such as irregular periods, weight gain, and excessive hair growth. Additionally, a diet lacking in fibre, healthy fats, and essential nutrients can contribute to inflammation and hormonal imbalances. Shifting towards a balanced diet rich in whole foods, including vegetables, lean proteins, healthy fats, and low-glycaemic carbohydrates, can help manage insulin resistance and improve PCOS symptoms.

 

Low-Grade Inflammation

Chronic low-grade inflammation is another physical cause of PCOS. Inflammation triggers the production of excess androgens in the ovaries, contributing to the hormonal imbalance that underlies the condition. Women with PCOS often have higher levels of markers for inflammation, such as C-reactive protein (CRP). This ongoing inflammation can also contribute to insulin resistance, worsening symptoms like weight gain, fatigue, and difficulty in managing blood sugar levels.

 

Genetic Factors

There is a strong genetic component to PCOS, as it tends to run in families. If a woman has a mother or sister with PCOS, she is more likely to develop the condition herself. While specific genes associated with PCOS have not been fully identified, genetic factors are believed to influence how the body regulates hormones and responds to insulin. This genetic predisposition, combined with environmental and lifestyle factors, increases the likelihood of developing PCOS.

 

Excess Body Weight

Excess body weight, particularly around the abdomen, can exacerbate the symptoms of PCOS. Fat cells, especially in visceral fat, contribute to insulin resistance and the production of androgens, which worsen the hormonal imbalances seen in PCOS. While not all women with PCOS are overweight, weight gain and difficulty losing weight are common challenges. Excess weight also increases the risk of other complications associated with PCOS, such as Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and metabolic syndrome. Managing weight through a healthy diet and regular exercise can help improve PCOS symptoms.

 

Emotional Causes and Themes of PCOS

If you are new to understanding the mind-body-soul connection and how our thoughts and emotions impact our physical health, then please read the following article we have created: Understanding the Mind-Body-Soul Connection and how it impacts health

To provide a quick summary, the mental wellbeing of an individual plays a crucial role in the manifestation and progression of physical symptoms as the mind cannot be separated from the body. Mind, body and soul are one and the same system. 

Understanding the emotional themes associated with heartburn is vital for getting to the deeper holistic root cause of the issue. This can often be due to significant life events at any life stage, even going all the way back to being in the womb. These experiences are stored energetically in the body and subconscious mind. 

Understanding the emotional causes and themes associated with PCOS is vital for getting to the deeper root cause of the issue. 

Here’s a general overview of the themes:

 

Loss 

This occurs when an individual experiences a deep emotional or psychological shock related to the sudden or unexpected loss of someone or something significant in their life. This type of conflict often arises when the loss disrupts a person’s sense of security, identity, or purpose, creating a profound sense of grief and internal struggle. It may involve the death of a loved one, the end of a significant relationship, the loss of a job, or even the loss of one’s health or identity. The emotional impact of such a loss can be overwhelming, triggering intense feelings of sadness, guilt, anger, or confusion.

Traumatic-loss conflicts can lead to unresolved grief, where the individual struggles to accept the loss and move forward. This internal conflict can manifest as anxiety, depression, or even physical symptoms like fatigue and chronic pain. The person may feel torn between wanting to cling to the past and knowing they must adapt to a new reality without the lost person or thing. Healing from a traumatic-loss conflict often involves processing the pain through grief work, therapy, and finding new meaning or purpose beyond the loss. It can be a transformative experience, but one that requires time, support, and self-compassion.

 

Fear of Loss

A fear of loss conflict is an emotional and psychological struggle driven by the anxiety or anticipation of losing someone or something important. Unlike a traumatic-loss conflict, where the loss has already occurred, this conflict is rooted in the fear of potential loss—whether it be a loved one, a relationship, financial stability, health, or even a cherished life role. The fear of loss can become overwhelming, causing persistent worry, emotional distress, and even obsessive thoughts about preventing or delaying the anticipated loss.

 

Location of Cysts

If the cysts are presenting more on one ovary versus the other, it has significant meaning from a body-mind perspective. This is beyond the scope of this article as each individual presents differently and will have varied themes, work with us to find out more.

 

Spiritual Causes and Themes of PCOS

(If you are coming directly to this section of the blog looking for the emotional themes connected to PCOS, please read the previous section)

Embracing spirituality or connecting with your higher self can be the most powerful healer of all. From a spiritual perspective, feeling disconnected to a higher power whether that be God, the Universe, All That Is, the Divine, or to your higher self, is considered to be at the root of ill-health. 

Connecting to the high vibrational energy of your spiritual truth can immediately start the healing process within an individual and often be transformative in many situations. 

 

Gaining a deeper sense of connection

From a spiritual perspective, loss is often viewed not as an end, but as a transformative experience that holds deeper meaning and potential for growth. Many spiritual traditions see loss as a part of the soul’s journey, offering opportunities for personal evolution, self-awareness, and a deeper connection to the divine. Rather than focusing solely on the material or physical aspect of what has been lost—whether a loved one, a relationship, or a life circumstance—spirituality encourages us to see the loss as part of the natural cycle of life, where endings lead to new beginnings.

In this view, loss is an invitation to reconnect with the eternal aspects of life, such as love, consciousness, and the soul, which are believed to transcend physical existence. It is through loss that individuals may be called to explore deeper truths, such as impermanence, the nature of attachment, and the importance of surrendering to the flow of life. This perspective can bring a sense of peace, as it suggests that even in moments of profound grief or sorrow, there is a greater purpose at work, guiding the individual toward healing, spiritual awakening, or a new path.

Spiritually, loss is also seen as a way to deepen one’s relationship with the self and the divine. It can serve as a catalyst for inner reflection, helping individuals let go of superficial attachments and embrace a more authentic, soul-centred way of living.

 

Illness as a Teacher – Developing Virtues

Viewing PCOS as a potential teacher, individuals may find spiritual meaning in the lessons and opportunities for why this health condition arose. Based on the emotional themes of PCOS, this mostly likely revolves around aspects such as discovering a deeper sense of connection, developing inner-strength, transcending physical loss, harnessing forgiveness,  developing self-confidence and self-worth.

Remember, there is no separation between the body, mind and the soul, they are all connected, and are reflections of each other. As a perspective shift, try to think of the body as simply the densest reflection of the soul. 

Adopting the perspective that considers the body as a messenger, conveying insights and reflections from the spiritual realm helps you to discover your own inner truth which is incredibly powerful and healing. 

 

Embracing a Holistic Approach to deal with PCOS

From reading the information in this article, we hope you can appreciate the emotional and spiritual themes that are intertwined with physical aspects of health. Therefore, a holistic approach to health that integrates emotional strategies with naturopathic treatments, nutritional recommendations, and spiritual practices is always our recommendation.

This triad of well-being forms the foundation for navigating the challenges of PCOS and getting to the true root cause.

We encourage all individuals who have been suffering with PCOS, who are struggling to get better or who haven’t discovered the root cause of their condition to really consider and embrace a holistic approach to their health. 

It not only can transform your health but can transform your life too. 

 

About Higher Healing and How We Can Help You

As holistic body-mind-soul therapists, we understand the powerful connection between your mind, body, and soul. 

Nutritional deficiencies, unresolved negative emotions and limiting beliefs often rooted in childhood experiences, a disconnection to a higher power, may have built up in your being, and they are now affecting your health and happiness.

Your soul is your inner truth and strength, and it flows through your mind and body. When you disconnect from your truth or ignore its messages, it can manifest as pain, discomfort, or ill health. It’s your soul’s way of getting your attention! It’s sending you a message. 

With years of experience, in Naturopathy, Nutritional Therapy, Medical Intuition and Mental and Spiritual Wellbeing Modalities, we’ve developed a unique approach, Higher Healing, that focuses on healing all aspects of your being: 

  • Addressing nutritional deficiencies and imbalances within the body through impactful natural therapies and recommendations. 
  • Clearing any stagnant energy being held onto and transforming  limiting negative belief systems to promote healing. 
  • Helping you to connect, identify and activate your true soul potential to promote a higher level of healing. 

Through this approach, we’ll work together to uncover the holistic root cause(s) of your health,  specific to you and your life story, clearing any blockages hindering your wellbeing. We help awaken the incredible healing power within you. 

Ready to learn more about aligning your mind, body, and soul? Book a Discovery Call so we can have a friendly conversation on how we can support you.  

Let’s work together to unlock the innate healing power within you to lead a healthier, happier, more empowered life!

About Higher Healing and How We Can Help You

Naturopathic Practitioners in NatureAs holistic mind-body-soul therapists, we understand the powerful connection between your mind, body, and soul. 

Nutritional deficiencies, unresolved negative emotions and limiting beliefs often rooted in childhood experiences, a disconnection to a higher power, may have built up in your being, and they are now affecting your health and happiness.

Your soul is your inner truth and strength, and it flows through your mind and body. When you disconnect from your truth or ignore its messages, it can manifest as pain, discomfort, or ill health. It’s your soul’s way of getting your attention! It’s sending you a message. 

With years of experience, in Naturopathy, Nutritional Therapy, Medical Intuition and Mental and Spiritual Wellbeing Modalities, we’ve developed a unique approach, Higher Healing, that focuses on healing all aspects of your being: 

  • Addressing nutritional deficiencies and imbalances within the body through impactful natural therapies and recommendations. 
  • Clearing any stagnant energy being held onto and transforming  limiting negative belief systems to promote healing. 
  • Helping you to connect, identify and activate your true soul potential to promote a higher level of healing. 

Through this approach, we’ll work together to uncover the holistic root cause(s) of your health,  specific to you and your life story, clearing any blockages hindering your wellbeing. We help awaken the incredible healing power within you. 

Ready to learn more about aligning your mind, body, and soul? Book a Discovery Call so we can have a friendly conversation on how we can support you.  

Let’s work together to unlock the innate healing power within you to lead a healthier, happier, more empowered life!

HEALTH DISCLAIMER – While energy-based healing is not intended to substitute conventional medical treatment, it frequently serves as a supportive adjunct. Holistic body-mind therapy has demonstrated efficacy for numerous individuals, who haven’t found success through other modalities. It is, however, imperative to seek guidance from a qualified healthcare professional regarding any physical or mental health concerns. Please read the MEDICAL DISCLAIMER at the bottom of this page.

Image Credit: Image by diana.grytsku on Freepik

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