Asheville Treatment for PCOS Symptoms
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal imbalance that disrupts a woman’s reproductive health. It is characterized by a combination of symptoms, including irregular or missed menstrual periods, elevated levels of male hormones (androgens), and the presence of multiple small cysts on the ovaries. Despite the name, not all women with PCOS develop ovarian cysts.
PCOS affects approximately 1 in 10 women of reproductive age, making it one of the most prevalent endocrine disorders in the United States. Unfortunately, it often goes undiagnosed for years, leaving many women struggling with confusing symptoms and few answers.
Common PCOS Symptoms
Women with PCOS may experience a wide range of symptoms that affect not just their reproductive health, but their entire body. These symptoms may include:
- Irregular or absent menstrual cycles
- Infertility or difficulty conceiving
- Acne or oily skin
- Excess hair growth (hirsutism) on the face, chest, or back
- Thinning hair or hair loss on the scalp
- Weight gain or difficulty losing weight, especially around the abdomen
- Mood changes, including anxiety and depression
- Fatigue or low energy
- Cravings and blood sugar instability
Because these symptoms vary greatly from person to person, PCOS is often misdiagnosed or overlooked—especially in women who don’t present with the “classic” signs.
Root Causes Addressed in Functional Medicine for PCOS
At Caring for the Body, PLLC, we understand that PCOS is not just a hormonal condition—it’s a complex metabolic and inflammatory syndrome with many contributing factors. Instead of relying on a one-size-fits-all protocol, our functional medicine approach investigates the root causes of your symptoms to support lasting, whole-body healing. Below are the primary imbalances we assess and address in our care model.
Insulin Resistance & Blood Sugar Imbalances
One of the most common drivers of PCOS is insulin resistance, which disrupts blood sugar regulation and contributes to weight gain, fatigue, and increased androgen levels. By improving insulin sensitivity through targeted nutrition, lifestyle changes, and supplementation, we can help restore hormonal balance and reduce many PCOS symptoms.
Chronic Inflammation
PCOS is often linked to low-grade chronic inflammation, which affects hormone signaling and can exacerbate symptoms like acne, fatigue, and irregular cycles. We work to identify hidden sources of inflammation—such as poor diet, infections, or toxic exposures—and introduce anti-inflammatory strategies to calm the immune system and support overall health.
Hormonal Dysregulation
Women with PCOS often experience multiple hormonal imbalances, including:
- Estrogen dominance
- Low progesterone
- Excess androgens (like testosterone)
These imbalances affect the menstrual cycle, fertility, mood, and metabolism. Functional medicine focuses on rebalancing hormones naturally by supporting liver detoxification, adrenal health, and nutrient status, and using bioidentical hormones or herbal support when appropriate.
Gut Microbiome Dysfunction
Gut health plays a central role in hormone metabolism and immune balance. Many women with PCOS struggle with SIBO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth), leaky gut, or dysbiosis. Addressing these conditions helps improve nutrient absorption, reduce inflammation, and promote hormone clearance—essential for restoring balance.
Environmental Toxin Exposure
Exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals in personal care products, plastics, pesticides, and household cleaners can interfere with hormone signaling. These toxins may contribute to the development or worsening of PCOS. We provide guidance on reducing toxic exposures and support the body’s detox pathways using safe, science-based strategies.
Thyroid Health and Adrenal Function
Thyroid disorders and adrenal dysfunction often go hand in hand with PCOS. An underactive thyroid can contribute to weight gain, fatigue, and irregular periods, while chronic stress and poor adrenal regulation can impair ovulation and worsen insulin resistance. We evaluate and support these systems as part of a holistic PCOS treatment plan.
Diagnostic Testing and Advanced Lab Work for PCOS
A core component of the functional medicine approach at Caring for the Body, PLLC is the use of advanced, data-driven diagnostics. Rather than relying on surface-level lab work, we take a deep dive into your hormonal, metabolic, and gut health to uncover the true drivers of your PCOS symptoms. Our testing methods are comprehensive, precise, and tailored to your unique needs.
Salivary and Dried Urine Hormone Testing (DUTCH)
We utilize the DUTCH Test (by Precision Analytical) to measure sex hormones and adrenal hormones through dried urine samples. This advanced test gives a detailed picture of estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, DHEA, and cortisol patterns throughout the day—offering critical insights into hormonal imbalances contributing to PCOS symptoms like irregular cycles, acne, or mood issues.
Blood Panels via Quest Diagnostics
Routine and specialty blood testing is an essential part of our assessment. We evaluate insulin, fasting glucose, hemoglobin A1c, vitamin D, inflammatory markers, lipid profiles, and other key metrics to assess metabolic function, nutrient status, and overall health.
Functional Thyroid Panel
Thyroid dysfunction is often overlooked in conventional care but plays a significant role in many PCOS cases. We conduct a comprehensive thyroid panel that includes TSH, Free T3, Free T4, Reverse T3, and thyroid antibodies to fully understand how your thyroid may be impacting your cycle, metabolism, and energy.
Gut Microbiome Analysis (GI-MAP)
Digestive health is directly linked to hormone metabolism and inflammation. We use the GI-MAP™ test by Diagnostic Solutions to evaluate your gut microbiome, detect pathogens, and assess gut barrier integrity. Addressing gut imbalances can improve nutrient absorption, reduce inflammation, and support hormone detoxification.
Insulin and Glucose Response Testing
PCOS is strongly associated with insulin resistance, even in women who appear lean. We assess blood sugar regulation through fasting glucose, insulin, and post-meal response testing to detect early metabolic issues and guide personalized nutrition and supplementation strategies.
Toxic Burden and Detox Pathway Evaluation
Environmental toxins can interfere with hormone function and metabolic health. Using tests from Quicksilver Scientific and Mosaic Diagnostics, we evaluate your toxic load and how well your body is processing and eliminating harmful substances. We then support detoxification pathways through targeted therapies to reduce your body’s burden and restore balance.
Personalized PCOS Treatment Plans in Asheville
No two women with PCOS are alike—which is why cookie-cutter treatment approaches often fall short. At Caring for the Body, PLLC, we design highly personalized treatment plans that address your unique root causes, goals, and lifestyle. Dr. Cynthia Libert and her clinical team in Asheville use a comprehensive, whole-person model to restore hormonal harmony and support long-term health.
Anti-Inflammatory, Hormone-Balancing Nutrition Plan
Food is a powerful tool for healing. We create a customized nutrition strategy that supports blood sugar balance, reduces inflammation, and promotes optimal hormone production. This includes guidance on anti-inflammatory foods, personalized macronutrient ratios, and meal timing to regulate insulin and support cycle health.
Bioidentical Hormone Therapy (When Appropriate)
When needed, we offer bioidentical hormone therapy to restore natural levels of estrogen, progesterone, or other hormones. This can be especially helpful for women experiencing severe cycle disruption, perimenopausal PCOS, or persistent low progesterone. Hormone therapy is tailored to lab results and monitored closely for safety and effectiveness.
Targeted Supplementation
Nutritional deficiencies and metabolic imbalances often contribute to PCOS symptoms. We use evidence-based supplements to correct these imbalances, including:
- Inositol for ovulation and insulin sensitivity
- NAC (N-acetyl cysteine) for antioxidant support and hormone balance
- Magnesium for blood sugar regulation and menstrual health
- Vitamin D for immune and endocrine support
Supplement protocols are always tailored to your test results and health goals.
Herbal Protocols for Menstrual Cycle Regulation
Botanical medicine can be a gentle, effective way to support hormonal rhythms and reduce symptoms like cramps, PMS, and cycle irregularity. We incorporate safe, clinically supported herbs to promote ovulation, support progesterone, and ease inflammation.
Stress Reduction and Adrenal Support
Chronic stress disrupts the delicate balance of the endocrine system, worsening PCOS symptoms. We provide practical strategies to support adrenal health—such as lifestyle modifications, adaptogenic herbs, breathing practices, and sleep optimization—to help your body recover and thrive.
Detox Strategies for a Cleaner Internal Environment
Environmental toxins can interfere with hormone receptors and burden detox pathways. We offer customized detoxification support, including:
- Sauna therapy
- Nutrient-rich binders to eliminate toxins
- Lifestyle guidance to reduce exposure in your home and daily life
These strategies help reduce the toxic load and support more efficient hormone metabolism.
Mind-Body Techniques and Spiritual Wellness
True healing goes beyond the physical. At Caring for the Body, we incorporate faith-informed and holistic practices to nourish mental and emotional well-being. Mindfulness, prayer, journaling, and nervous system regulation techniques are integrated to help you manage stress and create lasting resilience.
Take the First Step Toward Healing from PCOS
Living with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome can feel overwhelming. Many women are told they just have to “manage it” or accept ongoing symptoms as part of their normal. But at Caring for the Body, PLLC, we believe that PCOS does not define you—and it certainly does not have to dictate your quality of life.
If you’ve been struggling with irregular periods, stubborn weight gain, fatigue, skin issues, fertility challenges, or mood swings, know that you are not alone—and there is a better path forward. The symptoms of PCOS are not random or isolated; they are signs of deeper imbalances in the body that can be identified, understood, and treated at the root.
Whether you’re newly diagnosed or have been dealing with PCOS for years, it’s never too late to pursue healing. The body is capable of incredible transformation when given the right tools, support, and nourishment.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
Caring for the Body, PLLC – Center for Functional Medicine
📍 1998 Hendersonville Rd, Suite #24, Asheville, NC 28803
📞 (828) 490-1545
📠 Fax: (828) 202-8752
🌐 caringforthebody.org
📧 Secure Email: help@caringforthebody.org