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Managing Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a complex condition that affects many women, impacting hormonal balance, metabolism, and overall health. At True North Wellness, our team of Accredited Exercise Physiologists and Dietitians specialize in providing personalized care to help women manage PCOS effectively. Whether it be tailored exercise programs or individualized nutrition support, our practitioners empower you to take control of your health, reduce symptoms, and improve your quality of life.

The Benefits of Exercise for PCOS:

  • Insulin action, reducing the risk of diabetes
  • Weight gain prevention
  • Emotional wellbeing
  • Energy levels, motivation and self-confidence
  • Period regularity
  • Fertility
  • Fitness, muscle endurance and strength

Recommended first line treatment for PCOS...

A recent position statement from Exercise and Sports Science Australia, published in the Australian Journal of Medicine and Sport, states::

  1. Lifestyle therapy, involving exercise and diet, is considered a primary early intervention therapy in PCOS.
  2. Current evidence, including mechanistic studies, shows that exercise can improve a variety of cardiometabolic health outcomes in PCOS, including insulin sensitivity, central obesity, and cardiorespiratory fitness.
  3. Thus, the exercise professional plays a unique and important role in PCOS management by conducting appropriate assessments and providing safe and effective exercise interventions, particularly amongst women with PCOS and additional comorbidities.

Read the full paper here

We understand that there is a lot of stigma around PCOS, particularly in the context of weight management, but we want to assure you that we will listen to YOUR goals and work with YOUR body to develop a health plan that is focused on the outcomes that YOU want.

 

 

Not sure where to start?

We offer a Gap Free* Assessment which allows us to gain a good understanding of your health status and history, what your goals are, and develop a plan on how we can get you there.

*No out of pocket cost for those with private health covering Exercise Physiology

Our Exercising Environment

At True North Wellness, we have a private exercise environment that allows for just about any exercise you might do in a gym, but with a different feel. This allows for a safe and welcoming experience for people with PCOS. We can also set up home (or gym or pool) based exercise programs for those who would prefer to do most of their exercise in another setting, and in these instances semi-regular reviews can be quite useful to ensure ongoing support and progression.

Why choose an Accredited Exercise Physiologist?

Exercise plays a crucial role in managing PCOS, but not all exercise is created equal. Accredited Exercise Physiologists (AEPs) are health professionals who specialize in designing personalized exercise programs that cater to your unique needs. Here's how we can help:

  • Tailored Exercise Plans: AEPs understand that women with PCOS may have different exercise needs. We can provide individualised exercise plans or advice regarding your physical activity that focus on improving insulin sensitivity, reducing inflammation, and promoting weight loss while considering any other health concerns you may have. We understand that everyone has different goals and work with you on the areas YOU want to focus on.
  • Safe and Effective Exercise Prescription: Whether you're new to exercise or an experienced athlete, AEPs ensure that your workouts are as safe and effective as possible for you. They can help you incorporate a mix of aerobic exercises, strength training, and flexibility work to maximize benefits without overexertion.
  • Support and Motivation: AEPs focus on sustainable lifestyle change and can a great source of support and accountability with your exercise and general behaviour change. We can play the role of a health coach in supporting your exercise routine and other lifestyle factors that help to manage PCOS.

Why choose an Accredited Practising Dietitian?

Nutrition plays a significant role in managing PCOS symptoms and improving overall health. Our Accredited Practising Dietitian can guide you in making dietary changes that support hormone balance and weight management (depending of course on your goals). Here's what they offer:

  • Personalized Nutrition Advice: Every woman's body responds differently to various foods, making a one-size-fits-all approach ineffective. Our Dietitians will provide individualized advice that focuses on low glycemic index (GI) foods, balanced macronutrients, and anti-inflammatory foods to help manage insulin levels and reduce symptoms.
  • Education and Guidance: Understanding how food impacts your body is crucial in managing PCOS. Dietitians educate you on making healthier food choices, reading nutrition labels, and planning meals that fit your lifestyle.
  • Long-Term Management: Dietitians work with you to create sustainable eating habits that not only alleviate PCOS symptoms but also promote long-term health. They provide ongoing support, helping you navigate challenges like cravings, emotional eating, and social situations.

Are you looking for a more specialised program?

At TNW, we are proud provider's of the evidence based Young Women's Wellness Program. This is a healthy lifestyle program to support young women achieve optimal health, with evidence based lifestyle strategies including exercise, nutrition, sleep and psychological wellbeing. We know that in our younger years it can be difficult to prioritise our own wellbeing and so this program is tailored towards the unique challenges that occur during this phase of life and is suitable for managing PCOS.

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