PCOS: Understanding, Managing, and Supporting Women’s Health

PCOS: Understanding, Managing, and Supporting Women’s Health

Holistic support for managing PCOS and women’s wellbeing

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal condition that affects many women of reproductive age. Understanding what is PCOS, its causes, symptoms, and management options is essential to maintain overall wellbeing. At City Osteopathy & Physiotherapy, we take a holistic approach, combining lifestyle guidance, nutrition, and professional support to help women navigate the challenges of PCOS.

What is PCOS (Polycystic ovary syndrome)?

PCOS is a hormonal disorder characterised by an imbalance of reproductive hormones, which can affect menstrual cycles, fertility, and overall health. Women with PCOS may develop cysts on their ovaries, experience irregular periods, or have symptoms related to elevated androgens (male hormones).

Early awareness and proactive management can help reduce long-term risks such as insulin resistance, weight gain, and fertility challenges.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal condition that affects many women of reproductive age. Understanding what is PCOS, its causes, symptoms, and management options is essential to maintain overall wellbeing. At City Osteopathy & Physiotherapy, we take a holistic approach, combining lifestyle guidance, nutrition, and professional support to help women navigate the challenges of PCOS.

PCOS Causes: Why Does It Happen?

The exact PCOS causes are still not fully understood, but research shows that PCOS develops through a combination of hormonal, metabolic, genetic, and lifestyle influences. Instead of one single trigger, PCOS results from several interconnected factors affecting how the ovaries function and how the body regulates hormones.

These are the key factors that commonly contribute to the development of PCOS and influence how your hormones and ovaries function:

Many women with PCOS have elevated androgen levels (such as testosterone). When these hormones rise, they can interfere with the normal ovulation process, causing irregular or absent periods. This imbalance also contributes to symptoms like acne, excess hair growth, and hair thinning.

Many women with PCOS have elevated androgen levels (such as testosterone). When these hormones rise, they can interfere with the normal ovulation process, causing irregular or absent periods. This imbalance also contributes to symptoms like acne, excess hair growth, and hair thinning.

PCOS often runs in families. If a mother, sister, or aunt has PCOS or related conditions such as type 2 diabetes, you may have an increased likelihood of developing it. Genetics influence how your body processes insulin, responds to hormones, and regulates the menstrual cycle.

While lifestyle does not cause PCOS, factors like a highly processed diet, chronic stress, poor sleep, and low physical activity can worsen symptoms or amplify hormonal disruptions. Stress hormones, for example, can further imbalance insulin and reproductive hormones.

PCOS Causes

PCOS symptoms: What to look out for

PCOS symptoms can vary widely between individuals, but they often follow similar hormonal patterns. Understanding these signs early helps you seek the right support and manage symptoms more effectively.

How do I know if I have PCOS?

How do I know if I have PCOS

Knowing how to identify PCOS involves paying attention to your menstrual cycle, physical changes, and seeking professional guidance. Early recognition helps with timely management and reduces the risk of long-term complications.

Healthcare professionals may recommend:

  • Blood tests: These evaluate hormone levels, including androgens, and check for insulin resistance or other metabolic indicators linked to PCOS.
  • Ultrasound: Imaging can reveal enlarged ovaries or multiple small ovarian cysts, which are common signs of PCOS.
  • Symptom evaluation: Doctors will review patterns such as irregular or absent periods, excess hair growth, acne, weight changes, and other related signs.

How Naturopathy can help with PCOS

A naturopathic approach focuses on treating PCOS holistically, supporting the body’s natural ability to restore hormonal balance:

Nourishing Your Hormones Through Food

Personalised Dietary Guidance for Better Balance

Personalised nutrition plans focus on fibre-rich, low-glycaemic foods that help stabilise insulin and reduce hormonal fluctuations. These foods also support overall metabolic function, making it easier for the body to stay in balance.

Natural Remedies to Support Your Cycle

Herbal and Supplement Options With Professional Guidance

Certain herbs and natural supplements may gently support menstrual regularity and ovarian function. These should always be used under professional supervision to ensure safety and effectiveness.

Movement That Supports Your Metabolism

Lifestyle and Exercise Strategies for Hormonal Health

Regular physical activity, including structured workouts, yoga, and daily movement, helps improve insulin sensitivity and reduce inflammation. These routines also boost energy levels and support long-term metabolic health.

Improving Hormones Through the Gut

Digestive Health and Microbiome Care

A well-balanced gut microbiome supports hormone regulation by reducing inflammation and improving nutrient absorption. Probiotics and anti-inflammatory foods can help restore digestive balance and influence hormonal stability.

Exercise & Movement Therapy for PCOS

Exercise plays a crucial role in PCOS management — not just for weight, but for hormone regulation, insulin balance, and emotional wellbeing. Regular movement helps the body use insulin more effectively, lowers inflammation, and supports healthy ovulation.

Exercise & Movement Therapy for PCOS

At City Osteopathy & Physiotherapy, we integrate naturopathic principles to create personalised movement plans, which may include:

  • Strength training: Builds muscle that improves insulin sensitivity.
  • Gentle cardio: Walking, swimming, and cycling boost metabolism without stressing the body.
  • Yoga or Pilates: Supports hormonal balance, reduces stress, and improves pelvic alignment.
  • Postural and mobility work: Releases tension, improves circulation, and supports organ function.

These carefully guided exercises help regulate menstrual cycles, stabilise mood, and support long-term metabolic health — a key focus of holistic PCOS care.

A thorough professional assessment ensures an accurate diagnosis and allows for personalised PCOS treatment strategies tailored to your unique needs.

MEET OUR NATUROPATHS

Swetha is a Clinical Naturopath and Gold Medallist from Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences. She blends evidence-based nutrition, lifestyle medicine, yoga, acupuncture, and mind-body therapies to support gut health, sleep, and chronic conditions. Swetha is especially passionate about empowering individuals through education, mindfulness, and sustainable wellness practices.

Brian brings extensive experience in manual therapy, integrative health, and psychosomatic wellness. His approach is gentle yet comprehensive, bridging physical treatment with emotional support and nutritional insight. Brian is especially passionate about helping clients recover from chronic stress, digestive dysfunction, and nervous system dysregulation.

Why choose us?

Years in Practice
6
Clinics
1
Expert Practitioners
1
Patients Helped
> 5000

A one-stop solution for your convenience

Have the best experts in osteopathy, physiotherapy, and massage therapy services work together to tailor a unique care plan for you.

Everything you need to get better, under one roof.

 

Our 4-step healing process

We are here with you at every step of the way.

We evolve, grow, and flex as you and your body does.

Initial consultation with an osteopath or physiotherapist

The initial examination & diagnosis to get to know you and your body.

Create a tailor-made recovery plan​

Our expert recommendation to get you from where you are, to the better you.

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Bring on the best team

The most relevant experts employ hands-on therapy & corrective exercises for an effective healing journey. 

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With you at every step of the way​

You are ever-evolving & so will your recovery plan. Our experts consistently reassess your condition & progress, updating our approach and methods.

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HOW MUCH IS A NATUROPATHY SESSION

Prices do not include 9% GST.

Initial Naturopathy Consultation & Treatment with Senior Practitioner

$ 200
  • Includes Initial Consultation & Therapy

Subsequent Naturopathy Treatment with Senior Practitioner

$ 200
  • Includes Reassessment & Therapy

Does insurance cover the session?

City Osteopathy and Physiotherapy offers direct billing service for several insurance providers:

To enjoy cashless transaction please bring with you:

  • Membership card
  • Doctor’s referral letter (if needed per your insurance policy) 
  • LOG – letter of guarantee (if applicable)

Don’t worry if your insurance is not listed here. After each session we will email you an itemized bill so you can submit it for reimbursement.

We do not charge for completing medical insurance forms, but an administration fee is charged if an official letter or report is required to be produced for the insurance company or other entity.

  • Filling out insurance forms: Free
  • Writing a letter to insurance companies: $140
  • Full medical report for insurance companies or other entity: From $250

Our 8 clinics across Singapore

CBD

Address: 80 Robinson Road, #17-03 S(068898)

Contact us: 6222 2451  |  9669 5605

Opening hours:
Mondays to Fridays: 8 am to 8 pm
Saturdays: 8 am to 1 pm

Address: 10 Sinaran Drive, Novena Medical Center, #10-15 S(307506)

Contact us6339 9936  |   9296 1325

Opening hours:
Mondays to Fridays: 8 am to 8 pm
Saturdays: 8 am to 1 pm

Address: 1 Fifth Avenue, Guthrie House, #03-02 S(268802)

Contact us: 6314 4440  |  8182 2210

Opening hours:
Mondays to Fridays: 8 am to 8 pm
Saturdays: 8 am to 1 pm

Address: 11 Bidadari Park Dr, The Woodleigh Mall, #02-30 S(367803)

Contact us: 6817 0080  | 8902 6692

Opening hours:
Tuesdays: 8 am to 2 pm
Wednesdays: 8 am to 8 pm
Fridays: 8 am to 8 pm

Address: 217 East Coast Road,
Tides Building, #05-02
S(428915)

Contact us: Call | Whatsapp

Opening hours:
Mondays to Fridays: 8 am to 8 pm

CBD

Address: 80 Robinson Road, #17-03 S(068898)

Contact us: 6222 2451  |  88577907

Opening hours:
Monday to Friday: 8 am to 8 pm
Saturday: 8 am to 1 pm
Sunday: Closed

Address: 10 Sinaran Drive, Novena Medical Center, #10-15 S(307506)

Contact us6339 9936  | 88577907

Opening hours:
Monday to Friday: 8 am to 8 pm
Saturday: 8 am to 1 pm
Sunday: Closed

Address: 1 Fifth Avenue, Guthrie House, #03-02 S(268802)

Contact us: 6314 4440  | 88577907

Opening hours:
Monday to Friday: 8 am to 8 pm
Saturday: 8 am to 1 pm
Sunday: Closed

Address: 11 Bidadari Park Dr, The Woodleigh Mall, #02-30 S(367803)

Contact us: 6817 0080  | 88577907

Opening hours:
Tuesday: 8 am to 2 pm
Wednesday & Friday: 8 am to 8 pm
Monday, Thursday, Saturday & Sunday: Closed

Address: 1 Gateway Drive, Westgate Tower, #10-13 S(608531)

Contact us: Whatsapp

Opening hours:
Wednesday: 8 am to 8 pm
Thursday – Tuesday: Closed

Address: Tang Plaza, 310 Orchard Rd #B1-39 S(238864)

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Opening hours:
Wednesday: 8 am to 2 pm
Thursday: 2 pm to 8 pm
Friday – Tuesday: Closed

Address: 364 Joo Chiat Road, Singapore 427609

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Opening hours:

Monday: 9:30am to 8pm
Tuesday: 8am to 8pm
Wednesday: 9:30am to 8pm
Thursday: 9:30am to 8pm
Friday: 9:30am to 8pm
Saturday: 8 am to 1 pm
Sunday: Closed

Address: 81 Clemenceau Avenue, UE Square, #03-22 S(239917)

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Opening hours:
Monday to Friday: 8 am to 8 pm
Saturday: 8 am to 1 pm
Sunday: Closed

Frequently Asked Questions about PCOS

Yes. Hormonal imbalances in PCOS can lead to irregular or painful periods, though severity varies between individuals.

There is currently no permanent cure for PCOS. Effective management involves lifestyle changes, nutrition, medical support, and holistic therapies to control symptoms and improve long-term health.

Fertility challenges are common with PCOS. Management may include lifestyle optimisation, medical fertility treatments, and guidance on timing ovulation. Professional support is key to improving conception chances.

Yes. Elevated androgen levels in PCOS can lead to thinning hair or hair loss on the scalp, while causing excess hair growth in other areas of the body.

 

Symptoms of PCOS may improve after menopause, particularly irregular periods and fertility issues, but metabolic risks like insulin resistance and weight challenges may persist

Highly processed foods, refined sugars, and trans fats can worsen insulin resistance and inflammation. A balanced diet with whole grains, fibre, lean protein, and low-glycaemic foods is recommended.

Exercise is highly beneficial, particularly for improving insulin sensitivity and reducing inflammation, but it should be combined with a balanced diet, stress management, and medical or holistic guidance for best results.

Not necessarily. While ovarian cysts are a common feature of PCOS, having cysts alone does not mean a person has PCOS. Diagnosis considers hormonal imbalance, menstrual irregularities, and other symptoms.