Persistent hormonal symptoms, irregular cycles, weight changes, and metabolic dysfunction often signal something deeper than “normal hormone fluctuations.” At EvoHealth in Overland Park, we apply a precision-based Functional Medicine framework to uncover the root drivers of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)—a condition that is overwhelmingly metabolic and inflammatory in origin, not simply a reproductive issue.

This article outlines what truly drives PCOS, why conventional care often falls short, and how a root-cause Functional Medicine approach delivers superior clinical outcomes for women across Overland Park, Leawood, Lee Summits, and Kansas City.

PCOS Is Primarily a Metabolic Disorder—Not Just an Ovarian Condition

Although commonly defined by ovarian cysts and irregular cycles, PCOS is fundamentally a systemic metabolic condition characterized by:

• Insulin resistance

• Androgen excess (testosterone, DHEA)

• Inflammation and altered gut microbiome composition

• Impaired estrogen and progesterone balance

• Changes in ovarian steroidogenesis

Emerging literature from journals such as JCEM, Human Reproduction Update, and The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology identify insulin as the central hormone dysregulated in PCOS pathophysiology.

When insulin remains chronically elevated, it:

• Stimulates ovarian theca cells to increase androgen production

• Suppresses SHBG, increasing free testosterone

• Impairs ovulation and progesterone signaling

• Increases metabolic risk (blood sugar, triglycerides, visceral fat)

At EvoHealth, this is why every PCOS evaluation begins with metabolic testing, not just reproductive hormones.

The Core Root Causes of PCOS

Insulin Resistance

This is the primary driver of PCOS for most women.

Key mechanisms:

• Hyperinsulinemia stimulates excess testosterone

• Reduced SHBG → higher free androgen load

• Disrupted FSH/LH balance → ovulatory dysfunction

• Increased adipose inflammation → worsened insulin sensitivity

Testing we emphasize at EvoHealth:

• Fasting insulin

• Glucose

• HOMA-IR

• Triglyceride-glucose index

• hs-CRP for inflammation

HPA Axis Dysfunction & Chronic Stress

Chronic sympathetic activation increases:

• Cortisol

• DHEA-S

• Inflammatory cytokines

This contributes to androgen excess and symptoms such as:

• Hair shedding

• Anxiety

• Cycle irregularity

• Weight plateaus

Gut-Hormone Axis Dysregulation

PCOS commonly presents with:

• Reduced abundance of Akkermansia muciniphila

• Higher intestinal permeability

• Elevated LPS → systemic inflammation

• Impaired bile acid metabolism

Estrogen & Progesterone Imbalance

Common patterns:

• Luteal progesterone deficiency

• Estrogen dominance secondary to poor metabolism

• Inadequate ovulation

These contribute to:

• PMS

• Breast tenderness

• Heavy cycles

• Mood instability

Functional Medicine PCOS Treatment at EvoHealth in Overland Park

Our approach is data-driven, individualized, and grounded in metabolic optimization. Every patient receives a structured plan addressing the three pillars:

Precision Diagnostic Testing

Lab assessment includes:

• Fasting insulin + HOMA-IR

• Glucose + HbA1c

• DHEA-S, testosterone (total + free), SHBG

• Progesterone (cycle-specific)

• Thyroid panel (TSH, FT4, FT3, antibodies)

• hs-CRP

• Advanced stool testing if indicated

This identifies true mechanistic drivers, not just symptoms.

Metabolic & Hormonal Rebalancing

Lifestyle Interventions (Clinically Prioritized)

• Targeted nutrition to restore insulin sensitivity
  Emphasis on protein distribution, glycemic control, fiber diversity, and reduction of high-insulinogenic foods.

• Exercise prescription
  Zone 2 training + progressive resistance training to enhance mitochondrial function and insulin dynamics.

Targeted Evidence-Based Supplementation

We use supplements that are clinically validated at physiologic dosing:

Myo-Inositol + D-Chiro Inositol (40:1 ratio)

• Improves insulin sensitivity

• Restores ovulation

• Reduces androgens
  Widely supported in PCOS research (over 20+ RCTs).

Berberine

• Comparable to metformin in reducing fasting insulin

• Improves glucose uptake through AMPK activation

• Supports weight loss and lipid improvements

Akkermansia (Next-Gen Probiotics)

• Increases GLP-1 secretion

• Improves gut barrier integrity

• Reduces metabolic inflammation

This is especially effective for insulin-resistant PCOS phenotypes.

When Is BHRT Appropriate for PCOS?

At EvoHealth, BHRT is used selectively for:

• Low progesterone

• Estrogen deficiency in certain phenotypes

• Perimenopause overlapping with PCOS

• Cycle normalization

• Luteal phase support

We use bioidentical progesterone when indicated, based on:

• Symptom profile

• Cycle mapping data

• Serum/luteal progesterone levels

BHRT is never used as a band-aid—it is implemented only when the underlying metabolic drivers are being corrected simultaneously.

Ready for a Personalized PCOS Plan in Kansas & Missouri?

If you’re experiencing irregular cycles, weight changes, hair loss, skin symptoms, or persistent fatigue, PCOS may be the underlying driver—but the solution requires more than generic advice.

EvoHealth provides the most comprehensive, precision-based Functional Medicine approach to PCOS in Overland Park, helping women restore hormonal balance, optimize metabolism, and achieve long-term health.

Schedule your complimentary consultation to determine whether our approach is a fit for your goals: (913)-404-2193

EvoHealth Functional Medicine
13801 Metcalf Ave, Suite 205
Overland Park, KS