AMH, or Anti-Mullerian Hormone, can be a useful marker in evaluating those with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and fertility. While it does have utility, it also has limitations. But what is AMH and why might your doctor order it? The quick and simple answer is, AMH can give you information about the number of eggs you have. Low levels can …
Nettle root1 is an herb with a long history of use in traditional medicine, and it’s one of my favorite potent botanicals for hormone balance. Let’s dig into how nettle root can help with PCOS symptoms by managing androgens (and a few other supplements to try that only add to its effectiveness). Public awareness about polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) continues …
You’re not alone if you feel like your weight loss journey comes with an extra burden of guilt—from every angle, someone is telling you you’re doing something wrong. You’re eating too much. You’re not eating enough of the right foods. You’re not exercising enough. You must not be motivated enough. The list goes on. And while there are a million …
Prolactin is one of the less talked about hormones, but it’s critical for both men and women. Prolactin is produced by the pituitary gland and helps with sexual function, fertility, and lactation. While prolactin levels can fluctuate, they should generally be lower in women who are not pregnant or breastfeeding. Elevated prolactin levels can cause several issues, including problems with …
Inositol is one of my favorite supplements for fertility. It’s a nutrient closely related to the B vitamins, and it’s especially helpful for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) because it helps regulate insulin levels. Nearly one in ten women of childbearing age has PCOS, and it’s one of the most common causes of fertility problems. PCOS is characterized by insulin resistance, …
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common reason for anovulatory infertility1 (when an egg isn’t released from the ovaries). But having PCOS doesn’t mean that you can’t get pregnant. PCOS could make it harder to conceive because lack of ovulation is at the core of this condition. Without any egg for sperm to fertilize, there can be no pregnancy, …
Millions of women are affected by polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)—up to 20 percent worldwide1. And often I hear from patients and readers looking for options in managing their PCOS. This is one reason why supplements like inositol are growing in popularity. Inositol, often called vitamin B8 (although it’s actually not a vitamin because the body can make it), is found …
Inositol is a vitamin-like compound found throughout the body, where it plays a significant role in cellular signaling. It’s also used as a supplement to improve fertility, help with PCOS symptoms, support thyroid health, and more. I’ve seen inositol work wonders for my patients when used in combination with other lifestyle changes. The problem is that not all supplements are …
We all have varying amounts of hair on our bodies. What’s considered so-called normal or acceptable can depend on ethnicity, where you live, your own individual genes, and even your own personal preference. But there are cases where extra hair growth indicates something could be out of balance with your hormones and should be investigated by your provider. Hirsutism is …